Piano Lessons in Seguin, TX

Instruments: Piano Violin Drums

The following are books that I start my lessons with. In addition, I supplement with materials that my students are interested in learning. If there is a particular song or style that they would like to learn(and is reasonably within their ability level or I am able to modify), I work to teach it to them. Drums: ***The book chosen depends on a student's level and personal goals, but these are great books to start with: Drumset For Preschoolers by Andy Ziker(for students ages 2-6, or students that would benefit from a color-coded system initially) The Drumset Musician By Rod Morgenstein and Rick Mattingly(great for beginning drum beats!) Alfred's Drum Method(for learning rhythms and rudiments) A Fresh Approach to the Drumset by Mark Wessels with Stanton Moore(teaches an intro to a variety of styles, including rock, samba, jazz, etc.) Piano: Alfred's All-in-One Course This book has simple, child-centered lessons that are reasonably paced, teaches beginning music theory, and allows students the opportunity to write. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Music

After that, we start working on the songs you want to perform. If you have recording that you learn from we can work with those. If you bring sheet music, its even better. If you don't have any songs in mind, I have a large library of music to chose from across many different styles. I have written my own book on music fundamentals for adults, and create custom materials for my students depending on their needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Drums Organ Harmonica Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

I begin with a meeting. A meeting about you...How you are doing this fine day. We will make GREAT MUSIC together and learn more about music and the world's vibrations together. I want you to tell me what it is you want me to teach you, and in the process I will learn how you learn. You teach me while I teach you; then the music will flow from ALL DIRECTIONS! =) My philosophy is a simple one. "If you put the work in you will improve." We will go at the pace that you desire and what you show me you are prepared for. Read More

Instruments: Piano Ukulele

I like to get to know my students so that I can tailor the lessons and materials to their own interests. We have a mostly informal interaction, but I point out ways to improve playing at each lesson. I enjoy watching a student make progress and help celebrate when a particular goal is reached (such as the completion of a lesson book or the mastering of an important piece). Generally my lessons are enjoyable for both of us, and I strive to use praise more than criticism. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Much of my lesson plan is specific to the age, experience, desire and ability of the student, but the basics tend to remain the same. I try to craft dexterity and melodic exercises to unite the ear and fingers, while crating a basic understanding of the theory involved, a rhythmic exercise which teaches comping and time, and assign a song to work on between lessons. I refer to this plan as "Theory, Time Tune." This technique was effective when assigned to me and I still use it to guide my own practice. Read More

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 Violin Cello Viola

I have various methods. Really it depends on age when it comes to piano. 4-5 year olds I use Music For Little Mozarts or the Alfred Series. When teaching violin, viola, and cello I use Essential Elements for Strings and also the Suzuki books Read More