Music Lessons in Southgate, MI

Instruments: Flute

I began teaching for a local studio in 1974. I taught trumpet and flute (13 students to begin). Since that time I have taught music to referrals from friends and family. In the last 25 years I have had the opportunity to learn in small group settings (from duo to 15 "voice" big band). In teaching others I draw from my experience playing/singing with various groups in the Detroit area (and short tours). Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

On every instrument that I teach I place great importance on fundamentals, especially developing a deep sense of rhythm. Whether a novice student is learning basic concepts for the first time or an advanced student is maintaining their musical foundation, a short routine of very simple warmups is essential and is also a beautiful way to connect to the instrument every time we sit down to it.For young beginners on piano and guitar I start with the Faber Piano Adventure series and the FJH Young Beginners series - for young drum students I use Alfred's beginners drum set book. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Drums

I am a firm believer in showing rather than telling. I always have at least one type of saxophone with me during lessons if not more. For example, if I have a student who is taking baritone saxophone lessons, then I will have a baritone saxophone with me. My goal is not to play along with the student during these lessons; rather it is simply there if I need to demonstrate a key concept to my student. Read More

Instruments: Flute

My teaching philosophy closely aligns with my research experiences as well as my own professional experience as a performer and pedagogue. I focus on regular performance and exposure to a wide range of topics, repertoire and ideas, allowing for intersection with other disciplines. Influence and inspiration can come from unexpected sources, and I foster that potential in my students. My lessons include discussions of style as well as body awareness while playing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Keeping my students positive and inspired is my goal when teaching, and nothing is more inspiring than hitting landmarks and seeing your own progress! I encourage my students to learn at their own pace, and remind them that learning a skill is not a one size fits all scenario. I encourage my students to be as experimental, open minded and curious as possible. Setting realistic goals is always how I end every lesson, as you should always have a goal you're working to achieve. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I always ask my students what their goals are, both short and long term. This then gives me a good outline of how I expect our lessons to go. My biggest goal is not just for my students to grow and progress but also to have fun! We sing because we love it, and it gives us joy to do it and share it with others. While I do strive to challenge my students, I never want them to leave a lesson discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

I rely on Alfred's Piano Library as it's proven to be a thorough approach to learning, exercising and memory. After some discussions about what resonates with the student, we will both explore options we can really dig into and present in concert format later. I will also introduce counter material for a better overall perspective of how things work, why they do and don't work (depending on the setting) and to better understand those same elements in different contexts. Read More