Piano Lessons in Martindale, TX

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ

For beginning students, I usually start with a reputable method book that will allow them to advance in "grades" as the skills get better.  At earlier stages of learning, the focus is on the technique towards learning the instrument.  As a student progresses into intermediate and advanced stages, several pieces from the solo repertoire (and if available ensemble pieces) become part of the curriculum.  Throughout the advancement in levels, I try to focus on selecting pieces that the indivdual student will have interest in while balancing pieces necessary for learning more difficult musical techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is very laid back and encouraging. I love seeing a student pick up a new instrument but I usually sense a lot of nerves and bad self talk. I believe when learning anything, one should be comfortable to fail and ask questions. I try to make sure this is understood right away. I have a basic structure at the beginning of my lessons that includes scales and chords, but I like to use the rest of the sessions to work on what the student has been inspired by. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Organ Accordion Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I give all of my students a mixture of technical exercises, repertoire pieces, and creative assignments to keep things interesting and varied. We will spend about half of the lesson on technique and theory, and the other half on understanding, and appreciating different musical styles and how to improvise comfortably and confidently over them. I have a much heavier focus on songwriting, and composing than most teachers, and I encourage my students to be as creative as possible while giving them the tools to do so effectively and correctly. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Depending on the age and personality, I cater each lesson to the individual. If they are younger students, I'll use Mel Bay or Hal Leonard books, but sometimes I will make a custom book that builds with their development and learning style. I believe reading sheet music is important, but understand that being able to play along with other musicians using ear training and improv skills, as well as reading chord charts, is just as necessary. Read More