Music Lessons in Summit University, MN

Instruments: Trumpet

I like to begin students in the Arban's Conservatory Method book, it is a very thorough book with a lot of examples of most technical things a student should work on. It is a very comprehensive book that doesn't focus on anything in particular but covers everything well. I then like to move into books that focus more on different aspects of playing such as Charlier, Vizutti, Brandt, and Orchestral Excerpt books meant for Smphony auditions. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am straight-forward with my students. I address the issues right away and reference the correct methods. I will explain the answer until the student understands. I will take my time to explain the issue and get creative until we both are on the same page. I value "having confidence in yourself" and use cheerleading statements to bring out their inner-confidence. Some books I currently use or reference with my students include: "Totally Interactive Band Bible", "Music Success in Nine Weeks", "Fast Track - Chords & Scales for Guitar", "The Bass- a comprehensive approach book 1", Total Guitar". Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone Clarinet

I am a passionate and versatile instructor with a background in multiple musical styles. As a saxophonist and woodwind doubler, I have performer in major pit orchestras throughout the region, backed international artists including Denver and the Mile High Orchestra, Gary Smulyn, Gordon Goodwin and Wayne Bergeron. Vocally I have performed with organizations including the MN Opera, Children's Theatre Company, History Theatre, Illusion Theatre and as a touring cabaret and theatre singer. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The methods and approaches I use depend greatly on the student and their needs. The most important thing for me is to find repertoire that addresses the students needs and interests. For classical guitar students, there are a variety of methods that I regularly utilize (Julio Sagreras, The Royal Conservatory Series, Suzuki Guitar Method, Charles Duncan), and often supplement with other pieces/etudes. For other styles, I build lessons around playing music that the student is interested in, and include technical and musical exercises when needed. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

My main philosophy is that every student is different and should be treated accordingly. The methods I use are specifically tailored to each student and can be methods that I have learned or developed myself. I start students off by asking them collect ideas about their instrument and the music they enjoy. From that point, I begin to simultaneously teach technique and musicianship in relation to their expressed interests. The key to my teaching method is that I ask difficult questions and then I give the student time to think and develop an answer. Read More

Instruments: Voice

For me, voice teaching is all about the individual. Unlike a violin, trumpet, piano, or other instrument of a fixed size and shape, voices come in all shapes and sizes. Each students physiology and psychology is different and responds better to different stimuli/approaches. In singing, our bodies are our instruments! Therefore, there is no one size fits all approach to teaching voice. It thrills me to get to know a student and work with them in a cooperative and encouraging way to achieve his or her goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

I am very personal in the way I handle my lessons! You come to me and tell me what you are looking to learn or accomplish and I will put together a plan to make that happen. I work with a lot of artists on their original music as well, getting them ready for recording the music or performing live. I also teach from a holistic approach taking into account many different elements that affect vocal health / performance. Read More