Music Lessons in Stilwell, KS

Instruments: Voice

For beginning students, I like to start by assessing the students' skill by having them sing a piece of music of their choice. I am a strong believer in students taking charge of their learning, so I like to have my students choose a piece of music of their choice, and I will pick another piece of music that I believe suits their voice. Each lesson will start with breathing techniques and a vocal warm up. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Oboe English Horn

For piano students, I like to use the Alfred method books with supplemented music that peeks their interest. I like these books because they have several series depending on the age of the student and their interests such as music theory and broadway hits.-For woodwind students, I like to work for a few weeks out of their band books so I can assess their strengths and weaknesses. From there I will assign the appropriate method book; typically from the Rubank series. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Keyboard

The ultimate goal for me is to help my students develop a life long love and passion for music. I want my students to develop a first- hand appreciation for the creation of music and use it as a way to problem solve in other aspects of their lives. In order to do this, I set small goals each week that allow us to track progress through time. A lot of times regardless of age, students will come to me initially self conscious and afraid that they're terrible. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Effective teaching needs to be a give and take between the student and the teacher. I am knowledgeable and experienced in performing jazz, classical, and various pop genres of music, and yet, students bring a fresh perspective to a piano lesson. I like to challenge and excite students in developmentally appropriate ways by giving them a mix of music that they choose and music that I think is necessary for their growth as a musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Clarinet

It is important to me that each of my students learns to love their instrument. But, even more than the love of their instrument, is the importance of knowing and understanding one's instrument. I offer positive reinforcement, encouraging my student in realistic goals. I acknowledge accomplishments that help fuel mystudent's desires to progress. However, I do not hide from the fact that pursuing music is a discipline. A well structured and commited practice time offers the best benefits. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginners I use a method book for learning how to read music and learn music theory.  Once the basics are attained I introduce scales and etudes to build on the technical aspects of playing the instrument.  Solo books are also added to the repertoire for the student so that they can use everything they have learned thus far and express that in a piece of music. Younger children will not do as much music reading in the beginning of lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer

Techniques are like having more arrows in your quiver. The more techniques you have the more easily you can express yourself. Much like, the more words you know the easier and more proficiently you can communicate how you feel. (This leads you to self-expression.) Self-Expression is the ultimate goal. Music is a form of language communication, and once you can clearly convey your message and music with your instrument then you have reached a level of musicianship. Read More