Piano Lessons in Andover, MN

Instruments: Piano Voice

I use art songs that will guide singers through these areas of their voices, and will often allow the singer to bring in material of their own choosing within reason. At any age I put a large focus on how to practice outside of lessons. Lessons are for learning new vocal exercises and exploring new facets of the voice in a safe space. Outside of lessons are where substantial growth occurs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

My favorite part about teaching is watching my students progress. Nothing is better than seeing the progress one makes after a given time. Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at their own pace. Setting goals for themselves can work well but there is no need to rush anything. Learning takes time and especially learning an instrument. Words of affirmation when acknowledging a students accomplishment(s) helps students desire to continue to progress and make them eager to keep on learning. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe

Whatever type of music they are interested in playing, I find several examples to pull from that and use it as teaching material and relate it back to our foundational training. This keeps our lessons fun, engaging, and rewarding. For Drum set, I teach from Tommy Igoe's "Groove Essentials 1.0/2.0" and John Riley's "The Art of Bop Drumming". I encourage students to perform a recital but I like to stretch the definition of a "recital". Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

My philosophy in teaching is that a good understanding of the foundation of music and the instrument will lead to self sufficiency in learning. I aim to teach my students not just to be dependant on myself as the instructor, but to be able to problem solve and learn on their own if they run into a question and an instructor is unavailable. I regularly practice sight reading with my students and keep them critically thinking about their music and what makes it up. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Teaching is a step by step process and it takes time, effort and patience. I like to break things down into easily attainable steps and then build from there. This builds confidence and creates a sense of accomplishment. I was taught by Russian, Hungarian, and American teachers. I received a very traditional type of classical training which I do follow and teach. But I also play duets with most of my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano

It is often difficult to choose just the right method book for each student. I most often choose the Alfred series for both beginner's and adults, as I like how in that series the student not only develops the necessary skills but also learns about how music works. I also like very much the Piano Town series and have used it with success. For more intermediate and advanced students, I strive to get a sense of the type of music and pieces the student enjoys the most and try to assign their repertoire accordingly. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

My methods vary cased on the individual students. Each session involves learning to play as well as some music theory. Read More