Music Lessons in Shawnee Mission, KS

Instruments: Voice

Teaching music is my calling in life. It has taken me many years to actually say that with full confidence, but when I consider the joy I experience while teaching, and also look at the growth and improvement my students experience throughout their time with me, it is really clear: this is what I love, and this is what I have a unique gifting to do. I have two degrees in music: a Master's in Vocal Performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, and a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Iowa State University. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Acoustic Guitar

for beginning students who are children and just starting out, i typically start with the basic elements of either voice or guitar, depending on which lesson you have chosen. once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire which is age - appropriate of course, in hopes of preparing them for a first recital, perhaps. for adults, i try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My teaching experience goes back to 1980. I began teaching private students in a local music studio. During my college years, I was a Graduate Assistant. When I am not private teaching, I am working with students in their school district jazz band programs. All of my students are encouraged to participate in their school band programs and solo contests. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I teach using the ItalianBel Cantoschool of thought on singing. This style of singing promotes vocal hygiene and longevity by focusing on supporting vocal sound using the breath rather than relying 100% on the muscles of the throat. While attending KSU, I had the privilege of studying with Dr. Reginald Pittman, current Regional governor of the West Central Region of the National Association of Teachers of Singing, and head of the voice division at KSU. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I have a working curriculum that I think accommodates many different aspects of music, with a focus on individual playing styles and capacities. I adhere to what the student would like to pursue as far as material and technical ability. Most often I find it best to listen to the student and probe for the skills, styles and qualities that he or she would like to employ and at least begin with methods in the desired genre. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have been playing drums for 20 years and teaching for over 10 years. I've performed professionally all across the United States, including both coasts and throughout the midwest. In high school, I began teaching by showing my peers how to improve on their percussion instruments. Since then, it's been my lifelong endeavor to continue to improve, both as a musician and an educator. It is important for me to continue to learn, grow and perform in order to best help my students. Read More