Piano Lessons in Shawnee Mission, KS

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Organ Ukulele Recorder Keyboard Djembe

For beginner's, I do typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books. For intermediate, I'll evaluate what materials they've used thus far in their lessons and go from there. If someone is familiar with a set of books in a positive way, there's no reason to change the books they're using. I do believe, however, there is profit in a variety of repertoire, so a diverse lesson is key. I have learned from experience that simply learning one genre (classical, jazz, showtunes) is less desirable than having a familiar ear to multiple styles. Read More

Instruments: Piano

In my studio, I listen to the work that the student prepares for the lesson and assist with technical, performance, and musical aspects. We also listen to new music and discuss various aspects of the development of music.For younger students, I have computer based learn to help reinforce fundamentals, and also games that can help keep the learning an exciting and fun-filled experience. For my adults with goals in classical music, I offer in-class study of theory, repertoire, and history. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Effective teaching needs to be a give and take between the student and the teacher. I am knowledgeable and experienced in performing jazz, classical, and various pop genres of music, and yet, students bring a fresh perspective to a piano lesson. I like to challenge and excite students in developmentally appropriate ways by giving them a mix of music that they choose and music that I think is necessary for their growth as a musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

My main priority while teaching is to encourage and uplift my students. I never want to tear any of them down. To me, nothing is more rewarding than seeing your students face light up when they nail what they have been practicing. Each student will progress at their own pace and that is perfectly okay. I want each student to set a goal and we will work hard until that goal is accomplished. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Clarinet

It is important to me that each of my students learns to love their instrument. But, even more than the love of their instrument, is the importance of knowing and understanding one's instrument. I offer positive reinforcement, encouraging my student in realistic goals. I acknowledge accomplishments that help fuel mystudent's desires to progress. However, I do not hide from the fact that pursuing music is a discipline. A well structured and commited practice time offers the best benefits. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Flute Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I believe in a student learning to hear music and think for themselves. Through ear training, creativity, and learning "how" music works, the goal is to get each student to not need a teacher to learn their instrument, but want a teacher so they may become their best version of it. I focus on this as a primary value in my studio. In lessons, we'll use formulas and concepts to understand "why" things sound good, and "how" we actually get better. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning students who are children, I like to start with Hal Leonard's Piano for Beginners. Progress will depend on the students' willingness to learn and practice as well as encouragement from their parents. For students who already have an understanding of basic fundamentals, I will assess their skill level and select music appropriate for their progression and level of play. Adult beginner students are more than welcome to use piano books. Read More