Piano Lessons in Smithville, MO

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

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 Saxophone Clarinet Oboe English Horn

For piano students, I like to use the Alfred method books with supplemented music that peeks their interest. I like these books because they have several series depending on the age of the student and their interests such as music theory and broadway hits.-For woodwind students, I like to work for a few weeks out of their band books so I can assess their strengths and weaknesses. From there I will assign the appropriate method book; typically from the Rubank series. 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

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Keyboard

For beginner Piano students who are young, I teach either from Hal Leonard's Essential Elements or Faber & Faber. Both are great interactive resources that help guide toward mastery of the basics. I also like to include games using flash cards and note names for my youngest students who learn best through a variety of activities. For those that are past beginner lever, the Faber & Faber series works well to incorporate solo repertoire with technique and theory practice. Read More