Piano Lessons in Highland, MI

Instruments: Piano

I start beginners off with Frances Clark, The Music Tree Series. I also use the Faber-Faber Piano Adventures and Helen Marlais' Succeeding at the Piano. As students progress, I focus on repertoire pieces issuing from the baroque, classical, romantic, and modern eras as to introduce students to the history of music. Important components of home-practice include sight-reading and technique-building exercises. I also encourage sight-singing as a way of developing the student's ear. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Trombone Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Double Bass Euphonium Tuba Orchestral Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Since 2011, during the summers, I was an employee for the New York Summer Music Festival or NYSMF for short. I started at NYSMF as a counselor and music theory teacher and I later earned a position as TA and Commercial Voice-Over Teacher. The festival is a wonderful place that hosts 11 to 21 year olds at SUNY Oneonta for 2-week session jampacked with ensemble rehearsal, solo and ensemble performances, guest artist concerts, classes, faculty/staff or student showcases, masterclasses and so much more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

During the first lesson I have the student sing (if it is a vocal lesson) their favorite song so I can hear them. After that i use my keyboard and take the student through some excersizes to really home in on that range. I listen for qualities and we discuss the positives and what improvements are needed. After the first lesson we choose music: a classical art song book and theory book of my choosing, and a songbook of the student's choosing. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I listen to the student's music selections. While he/she plays, I observe him/her how this student is adapting to the instrument. After his/her performance, I offer constructive criticism pointing out steps to adapt himself/herself to the instrument. I also encourage and push for attentive listening for tone quality. This is very important no matter the level of students. The way to listen for tone quality is not only seating straight and at the center of the keyboard, but also understand when and how to use the bony part of the fingers(closer to nails) versus the fleshy part of fingers on the opposite side of nails. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My teaching experience dates back to my teen years. I began teaching drums at a local music store when I was a senior in high school, as I was already playing professionally with a local band. I continued when I went to college, teaching both piano and drums to kids and adult beginners, as well as college students on campus. This continued into my graduate studies, where I was also a Music Theory T.A. for two years. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Bass Guitar Double Bass

I believe that in order to effectively teach, one must also do. My extensive performance background allows me to read a student to see what their goals might be and custom fit a curriculum around them. Sometimes a method book is the right way to go. Books such as the Alfred series and Hal Leonard often offer easily attainable goals for younger students. However, it is always important to listen to one's students to find out what music makes them passionate and make sure to weave that into the practice of good technique, and theory. Read More