Piano Lessons in Dayton, OR

Instruments: Piano Voice

I am a believer of structure AND fun. I typically start students with basic technical work, combined with creative games to keep the skills relevant and interesting. Then I introduce more complicated process and ideas into the mix, while allowing the students to find out their own voices. I can't prescribe one way of teaching to differnet people, therefore I won't until I get to meet that student! :) An avid lover of dance and yoga, I incorporate lots of movement games, body work, and breathing exercises in my lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I love to see my students accomplish their goals. Therefore I always assign a piece easily within their reach. However, I believe it is important to have higher goals. In keeping with that, once the student is at an appropriate level, I assign a piece that will take a bit more work to master. I find that this motivates most of my students to really shine and to see the rewards of consistent and effective practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

The clarinet lessons are personalized because each student has different strengths and weaknesses. The important thing is to strengthen the foundations and enhance the qualities of every student. As a teacher, he has successfully mentored numerous students over the years, many of whom have gone on to complete university degrees in clarinet and composition. In 2017, a group of his students traveled to Kerkrade, Netherlands, and Valencia, Spain, achieving remarkable recognition, all due to their commitment to prioritizing art above all else. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning students (children) I use the Piano Adventures books by Faber also with a notespeller and possibly some Hanon exercises. For beginner adults I use the adult beginner Piano Adventures, notespeller, and Hanon. So for any student there is a combination of music theory, finger exercises, and learning how to play and enjoy piano music. Once my student becomes more advanced I will encourage them to play short classical pieces such as a waltz or prelude, or a piece of music of their choice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Fiddle

Kathleen utilizes the Suzuki, Galamian, and Flesch method systems, as well as integrating music theory and aural skills into every lesson. When teaching classical violin and piano, she emphasizes listening skills and applied theory to help develop strong sight-reading skills. In fiddle lessons, she creates practice videos and audio files for students to practice along with in between lessons, incorporating use of the metronome to increase speed and rhythmic stability. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

For beginning students in piano, I like to use either the Alfred Reed books or the Piano Adventure method books. It really depends on which the student understands the best! Both offer a variety of explanations on musical elements and topics, while also offering a variety of pieces to play. Once certain topics and musical elements are covered, I like to have the student pick a solo piece from several that I will have ready, which will also reflect the new musical elements that were covered. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Keyboard

In most of my lessons, I use one of several piano methods, which I supplement with additional materials, chosen according to the student's musical preferences and goals. My preferred courses for beginning students are Alfred, Faber and Bastien. I always include music theory, as it is fundamental to appreciating and understanding the music, and it allows students to learn the basics of improvisation. For students interested also in vocal training, I have experience and an excellent teaching method available. Read More