Music Lessons in Sutersville, PA

Instruments: Piano Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

I have many books for beginners that I used growing up. I usually get a feel how the student is going to learn to enjoy music and then go from there. There are different types of beginner books, one focusing more on the technical aspect and the other one on note reading right from the start, so its really based on how the student learns and take small steps from there. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I love guitar, so, teaching guitar is just another expression of my passion for music. I develop a trusting, professional relationship with my students. I answer their questions, I listen to them, I understand that they are in a very important and challengning phase of their musical developmet and education. I value their input, efforts, knowledge, experience, and talent. As a matter of fact, I learn a great deal as a teacher from my students! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

My teaching experience dates back to my time in high school. Being the saxophone section leader for my schools marching band I was expected to make sure the members of my section knew what they were doing. If there happen to be someone who wanted to start taking on saxophone for the band, I was expected to teach them how to play. I then went to college for Music Therapy where I was expected to teach and lead groups of clients in musical interventions. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I most often use "the Guitar, Phase 1," by Wm. Leavitt, published by Berklee Press. For this interested in Classical guitar, I use the Christopher Parkening Guitar Method, Vols, 1 2, and Segovia Scale Patterns. For those interested in Rock, Jazz or Blues styles, I generally use "A Modern Method for Guitar, Vols. 1, 2, 3" by Wm. Leavitt, published by Berklee Press. For adult beginners or intermediate / advanced students, an hour lesson is recommended. My approach will vary depending upon the goals and background of the student. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

I believe it is important for any teacher to be patient and compassionate. Every student is different in their abilities and learning processes. So I remain flexible in trying new ways to keep students engaged and not be distracted if certain techniques become difficult. Unlike a course where you receive a grade, lessons are like coaching sessions. Similar to coaching sports, consistent workouts and drills help build the foundation to perform. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

It is very easy today to record lessons and send students home with different songs to play along to. Drums are much more fun when you play with other musicians and one way to do that is with recordings. Again there is room for me to bring music to the student, but also room for the student to bring something to me that they want to learn. Also a great opportunity to show the similarities between and differences between these two events. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

For beginning students, I like to build a good foundation. I start with breathing exercises and a little mouthpiece buzzing. Then move on to a beginning book with helpful exercises as well as writing my own to tailor to the student's individual needs. I will begin to introduce solo repertoire once the student has a solid grasp on fundamentals and always encouraging them to keep practicing those key elements. I also like to incorporate anything the student might be interested in to keep the student engaged and excited to practice between lessons. Read More