Music Lessons in Saint Bonifacius, MN

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Euphonium Mallet Percussion

I do expect regular practice outside of lessons; I do not want lessons to simply be a guided practice session. Ideally, students would fully prepare the assigned material for each lesson-- not that it needs to be perfect, but that I can tell that he or she has been working on it. For students who are clearly putting in a reasonable amount of effort, I reward them by writing out melodies of their favorite pop songs for them to learn to play. Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone Clarinet

For students of all levels, I emphasize the fundamentals. No matter what style our focus is in, the development of scales, chord progressions, modes and technique patterns are universal. I incorporate solo literature early and often and work with the students to play the music that they listen to every day. We develop the students ear through weekly memorization of music the student enjoys on a daily basis. This allows us to branch into more advanced literature with a deeper understanding of what makes a style, a style. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I love watching students succeed and learn the viola or violin! This is why we go by the student's pace and work with their ability. I require a notebook or binder for me to record what the student will need to work on for the following lesson, which helps them remember what they're assigned, as well as keeping them accountable about expectations. (And it helps me to remember!) Accomplishments will always be acknowledged, as well as constructive comments about what needs to be improved both technically and musically. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I have been teaching private voice lessons for 5 years. For 2 years starting in 2017, I worked as a graduate voice assistant at the University of Minnesota where I taught vocal methods in a classroom environment, as well as private lessons to a studio of 18+ students. I am most experienced teaching young adults, though I am comfortable with any age group. I received training from the University of Minnesota and am familiar with a variety of pedagogical approaches. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe

For beginning students, I typically start with the universal drum exercises every drummer should know, like the Ted Reed's book "syncopation" or the very classic "stick control". These exercises are mostly for warm ups, hand coordination, internalizing rhythm, and speed training. Depending on their musical background, I often like to introduce basic music theory concepts just so we are able to speak the same language. Once a foundation is set, I quickly move to what the student's interests are. Read More

Instruments: Flute Recorder Piccolo Music

I do not have one style of teaching that I prefer to use with my students. I strive to make each lesson plan based on the student's individual needs, desires, and goals for their lesson time. I believe that this makes the material more attainable and more engaging. As I get to know my student's learning styles, I can adjust my plans to meet there different needs. I am able to make a comfortable environment for my students that make lessons fun, because music is fun! Read More