Piano Lessons in Smithville, TX

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Bass Guitar

I am a three-time Grammy nominated multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher. I am proficient on saxophone, clarinet, flute, upright bass, electric bass, and piano. In 2006, I graduated with a degree in Jazz Composition with an emphasis in Saxophone Performance from the University of Texas at Austin. For some time in the mid-2000's, my wife and I had our own big band in Central Texas that played our original compositions exclusively.In 2015, our music was the centerpiece of a Hollywood screenplay with directorial consideration by Clint Eastwood and others. Read More

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 Guitar Voice Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

For beginning drum set students, the program I recommend is starting with Drum Set Essentials by Peter Erskine. As skills in rudiments and basic patterns develop, I go on to materials such as Syncopation by Ted Reed (reading,coordination,technique), and Stick Control by George Lawrence Stone (technique). For piano, I go over basic theory,major and minor scales,chords and arpeggios and work in Piano For Adults by James Bastien. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I like a light, fun atmosphere during lessons, one that reflects the learning style and personality of each student. There are some not-so-fun things about learning music (practice schedules and repetition) but there are plenty of resources out there to help students stay interested and motivated. I like to reward accomplishments (stickers are always awesome) and offer opportunities for improvement. I work for a positive and balanced experience for every student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Most of my instruction experience has been on-the-job teaching of my professional associates and bandmates as a Musical Director and bandmate. I have occasionally taught lessons during brief stints off of the road, but playing on the road has been my primary job for most of my adult life. Teaching, learning, practice and rehearsal have played a major role in my day-to-day life. Through this experience I've acquired a broad understanding of the various ways in which people learn and relate to music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Synthesizer Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I teach all levels and my methods depend on the age and skill level of each student. Everybody learns differently and has different musical goals so I stay open-minded and tailor my lessons on an individual basis. for children and beginners, I focus on technique and very basic theory to get them started playing the songs they like. For intermediate students, I assess thier current skil level and breadth of knowledge so i can then help them expand and solidify thier musical groundwork. Read More

Instruments: Piano Ukulele

I love to help students develop their musical abilities and love of music, partly by choosing music that fits the student's interests. I have never had a student quit due to not being satisfied with my lessons. I raised a son who is now a classical pianist by profession, helping with his education and observing his teachers. I have mainly taught early-level piano students in the lower grades in school, but I have some adult intermediate level and beginner students and a few teens. Read More