Piano Lessons in Sibley, MO

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching experience has been with my church choir. I started out as the accompanist and helper. A year or so later I found myself in the conductor's seat. For two years I worked with my church's choir to bring out the best that they could be, and to bring joy to the congregation. Not only did I conduct the choir, but I was their accompanist as well. I tried to bring a mix of old and contemporary to the table because I believe being a well-rounded musician. Read More

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

The method I use in my studio is individually tailored to each student and the student's goal. I have found the the encouragement of each student's goals the best way to inspire them to learn. Seeing my students discover new and exciting realizations is the most rewarding part of teaching piano, and if I can impart some of the understanding I have to help them grow creatively then I have succeeded. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Keyboard

The ultimate goal for me is to help my students develop a life long love and passion for music. I want my students to develop a first- hand appreciation for the creation of music and use it as a way to problem solve in other aspects of their lives. In order to do this, I set small goals each week that allow us to track progress through time. A lot of times regardless of age, students will come to me initially self conscious and afraid that they're terrible. Read More

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

I don't believe in a one size fits all mentality for music education, I've often seen this approach derail students from enjoying the process and eventually terminating their relationship with music overall. Students are a case-by-case basis, and in that regard, each lesson is catered to the students actual goals and interests. I believe in training our ears and our sense of rhythm to a point where the student can figure things out and make artistic decisions on their own and use lessons, less as a tutorial, but as a source of inspiration to pursue the things that brought them here in the first place. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

The method book I begin younger students on is Piano Adventures by Faber and Faber. There are 5 Level books to complete. We use the lesson book, as well as the technique book. I also supplement with solo repertoire and various materials. For the older beginner, I use Alfred's Basic Adult All-In-One Course, as well as supplemental solo repertoire. Music theory is essential in my studio, and I use various learning tools to teach theory. iPad apps, worksheets, games and manipulatives are a few examples. Read More