Piano Lessons in Riverdale, MI

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Music Keyboard

I am an accomplished music educator and composer skilled in and enthusiastic about teaching music students of all ages. I have a Bachelor's degree in cello performance from Utah State University, where I studied with Anne Francis Bayless of the world-renowned Fry Street Quartet. I also have a Master's degree in composition from Arizona State University, and am currently working toward my Doctorate in composition at the University of Michigan. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Bass Guitar Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I take the great things about the Suzuki Method and use them (fun, creativity, by-ear learning, group jams). Then I take the things I don't like about the method and disregard them (pre-established repetoire, no composition or improv). I teach kids how to concentrate, how to teach themselves, how to ignore distractions, and the philosophy for joyful performance without nervousness. The result has been that I have trained hundreds of children to have fun playing music well, plus four of my child students have become national acts. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

To me it is very important to balance the technical and creative aspects of development. No matter what age/skill level I split time during lessons into activities that develop technique and language, and compositional, creative activities that help each student explore their instrument and what they have to say with it. This balance can be altered depending on the interests of the student or parent. I also encourage students to bring in songs that they want to learn/play along with to keep the lessons relevant to their musical interests. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Nothing makes me happier than seeing my students developed a passion and desire for music. Therefore, not only is it about what pieces I want to teach, but also what songs or pieces my students are interested in learning. That is why I ask my students from time to time, "What do you want to learn?" Depending on their level, we decide if we can learn it or wait. I also try to make my students share the process of finding out information; Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching style is fun and effective. I find that a huge percentage of issues people face are themselves, so I employ fun techniques to overcome obstacles. An example would be a student I currently have who gets tense as she approaches higher notes- I will have her toss a ball back and forth as a distraction technique and it's amazing that a beautiful, free high note come right out! Read More

Instruments: Piano

Ever since 1990's, the decade I began teaching piano, I begin to understand that each student is unique, and learns music differently. As a result, the fun part comes trying to figuring out how to personalize lessons for each of my students. That means there are times when the available method books may not work out. But at the same time, the motivation and push is what will generally drive students to work hard. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My success stems mostly from the fact that I make learning very enjoyable. I am here for the students and to assist them in studying the principals of music and their favorite artists. As a music instructor I set individual goals and tailor all lessons to the needs and pace of all students. I know how important it is as a teacher to pick up on when my students are having trouble or feeling overwhelmed. Read More