Piano Lessons in Columbia House, IL

Instruments: Piano Violin

I encourage a parent/guardian to be involved in helping students build a practice pattern. My philosophy is that students need to practice every day, even if its only 5-10 minutes they have time for. Practicing a little bit each day is more effective than cramming practice into the day before the lesson. I want to be a team, making sure students and guardians feel comfortable communicating their needs as the lessons take off! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

Like most music teachers, my passions started with performing myself, and then using those experiences to educate my students. I have be a part of several operas, musicals, choirs, pop and Jazz ensembles, and each experience taught me tactics that I would not have learned anywhere else. I then paired my performing knowledge with my knowledge of education and with that I have successfully taught choirs, bands, vocal a capella ensembles, classrooms, musicals, pit orchestras and many many voice and piano students from ages 5-63! Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Music

To me, it is important that I meet each student exactly where they are at. Each student is unique and no two paths will be the same, so my instruction varies from student to student. Typically with the younger students, I do like to incorporate a lot of games, challenges, and rewards to help them find their motivation. For my older students, I encourage them by setting realistic goals and acknowledging their accomplishments, no matter how small. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard Djembe

Passion for music and fluency with the language of music are my ultimate goals. When I can get students passionately and freely expressing themselves, without hesitations, inhibitions, or apologies, I feel I have liberated the master artist that dormant within each of us. Everyone has such a powerful, and beautiful voice within: to be able to fearlessly communicate it through the power of music is my goal for all students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Lute Music

The least methodical of the four approaches, the Orff method teaches music in four stages: imitation, exploration, improvisation, and composition, and this is what i use. 1- make musical instruments with your children......2-Sing to them...... 3- Teach them to whistle...... 4- play musical games..... 5- play music in the background.... 6- let them play with instruments...... 7- Give them musical colouring in..... 8- get them used to musical terms... 9- soundtrack nap time.... 10- Children's TV programs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet

Every student is unique in their ability level, dedication to the instrument/craft, et. al; therefore, I cannot expect that every student will be the next Larry Combs. I do, however, expect that every student take their responsibility for practicing each week, coming prepared to lessons, and being a good student. In lessons, I am kind and personable as anyone should be, but I like to make clear my expectations right from the beginning. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My lessons are about technique and applying the technique to repertoire. I spend about a third of the lesson on specific technique work and I always encourage students to bring in their own material that we can work on as well. I of course always have songs to suggest and I cater to each individual student's needs. If you need a high song, I'll find a high one. If you need a pop song, I'll find a pop song. Read More