Piano Lessons in Grain Valley, MO

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Flute Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Hey there, I'm Sky! I play a lot of instruments, compose scores for TV and games, make beats, produce other people's stuff - if music is involved, I tend to be involved. I've studied with a number of phenomenal teachers in the classical, jazz, and eclectic performance and producing world and my students regularly excel in competitions, ensembles, auditions, and creating/producing their own music! Somewhere along the line, it became obvious that my life is only complete when Im making music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Clarinet

For beginning students on Piano, I like to start with Alfred's Basic Piano Books. For clarinet: H. Klose. For Viola and Violin:Suzuki.There is a small amount of leewayI allot for those students who are exemptional.These booksoffer easy ways for begining students to learn the rudiments and mechanics of their particular instrument.Once progression is being made in the development of rudiments and mechanics, I start to incorporate solo works to spice up the learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Organ Ukulele Recorder Keyboard Djembe

For beginner's, I do typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books. For intermediate, I'll evaluate what materials they've used thus far in their lessons and go from there. If someone is familiar with a set of books in a positive way, there's no reason to change the books they're using. I do believe, however, there is profit in a variety of repertoire, so a diverse lesson is key. I have learned from experience that simply learning one genre (classical, jazz, showtunes) is less desirable than having a familiar ear to multiple styles. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Effective teaching caters to each student's unique needs and learning styles. This is why although I prefer the Music Tree series of method books, I'm also flexible and observant to determine the best possible approach on a student-by-student basis. My goal is to instill a genuine, passion for music in my students, and also to help develop well-rounded musicians. Whether you want to play Mozart, write songs, or play in a jazz band, I want to give you the tools you need to make the most of that situation. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I love seeing students succeed and developing a love for music! Each student learns and progresses at different paces, so it is important to me to set realistic goals based on the individual. Encouraging and acknowledging their success is very essential to helping the student progress and desire to learn more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

The method book I begin younger students on is Piano Adventures by Faber and Faber. There are 5 Level books to complete. We use the lesson book, as well as the technique book. I also supplement with solo repertoire and various materials. For the older beginner, I use Alfred's Basic Adult All-In-One Course, as well as supplemental solo repertoire. Music theory is essential in my studio, and I use various learning tools to teach theory. iPad apps, worksheets, games and manipulatives are a few examples. Read More