Piano Lessons in New Douglas, IL

Instruments: Piano

Looking back over my professional career -- which includes several public relations, marketing and advertising positions -- my favorite and most rewarding activities have centered around music. Whenever possible, I use my own method, which includespromoting spatial relationships and patterns. Although composition is not my specialty, I certainly can do the basics and then point them to a more accomplished musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I have taught students for over 30 years and have seen many changes in both student’s preferences and the style of Music and instruments preferred. I am comfortable with both traditional pianos and organs and modern electronic keyboards. I have given lessons in my home, my students’ home and retail studios.I currently have 20 students on my roster. 6 of whom are adults. I have also begun a regular schedule of concert/recital opportunities for all of my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Piccolo Keyboard

It is very important for students to understand the theory associated with their teaching. Therefore, students are constantly quizzed to verify cognitive relation to newly learned information. If students can connect the science & skill of knowledge it is retained long term. This encourages the student to think and respond quicker. ...keeps them on their toes. I teach for matey of information, therefore, I am always reviewing. In addition, as the student learn, I also play along with them on most occasions. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Keyboard

I do not use any textbooks or piano method books in my teaching. I am almost completely self taught, but have had success with my own methods of teaching piano. I have my own musical examples written out, which I can easily print or email for students. For beginners, I generally focus on basic technique and practice routine. Once the student has mastered some fundamentals (scales, chords, etc.), I introduce beginning level repetoire and start with basic sight-reading techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute Recorder Piccolo

I want to inspire my students so that when they look back on their time with me, they remember having a positive musical experience. Secondly, I strive to create a positive environment and relationship between my students and myself. In situations where I may get a little stressed or overwhelmed, I remind myself to keep composure. I dont allow my emotions to get in the way and I try not to take things personally when something comes up unexpectedly. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning and intermediate students I utilize the Bastien Method books series, which includes supplemental Theory and Technique books that can be purchased if needed.  These students each select performance pieces which they enjoy and are level-appropriate from a variety of sources. More advanced students focus primarily on challenging performance pieces, several of which are selected as 'keepers' for practice and review.  Lessons include technique practice (scales, arpeggios, finger exercises), theory (from textbooks, flashcards etc.) music history, instrument mechanics, ear training and musicianship (such as rhythm and sight reading drills, dictation) and student compositions (notation and continuation methods). Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Keyboard Classical Guitar

I love Faber and Faber for piano. I have several very young students doing the series for preschoolers. These materials are supplemented with Keith Snell's literature books. All students do at least one duet per year and two recitals.I love to take students as far as they can go in their lesson books and then back that up with the technic books, which are generally a bit easier. That helps with pacing the lessons and it pads the practice times. Read More