Music Lessons in Southgate, MI

Instruments: Voice

I do not provide a strict curriculum. Instead, I form lessons based on student's needs as I feel this is more effective and more personalized. Things that we may explore include; warm-ups, posture, breathing techniques, tongue twisters, learning to read notation, and rhythm. I prided myself on not only teaching the basics of singing but how the body works in conjunction with it. I strive for my students to not only know 'how' but also 'why'. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching style is fun and effective. I find that a huge percentage of issues people face are themselves, so I employ fun techniques to overcome obstacles. An example would be a student I currently have who gets tense as she approaches higher notes- I will have her toss a ball back and forth as a distraction technique and it's amazing that a beautiful, free high note come right out! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

More than anything music should be fun. The greatest musicians are the ones who enjoy playing music even when they're just practicing. I like to teach in a way that involves asking the student questions in order to get them to figure out the answer for themself, rather than just lecturing the whole time while they start daydreaming! This way the student is more involved in the learning process and it can make their time spent learning an instrument more worth it. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass French Horn

I hope to emulate some of my great teachers including Robert Hurst, Cecil McBee, John Lockwood and others. Of course regular practice is necessary, but listening is also key to advancement. Besides regular warmups and technical workouts, I encourage every student to transcribe, sing and play along with music they like. My students will not only learn the ins and outs of their instruments, but also will learn to make their own music through improvising and composing.--Some of my experience includes almost a decade of national and international touring plus several years teaching ensembles and in classrooms at the university leve. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

Each student learns differently and has trouble with differnt things, therefore I adapt the way I teach a student based on their needs, learning style and skill level. What the student is interested in is also very important in order to keep the student engaged. Most topics can be taught using various types of music that the student is interested in. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with the Faber series, along with accompanying primer theory and lesson book. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. In addition to this, I typically start to add scale exercises to increase strength and speed in one's fingers. 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