Piano Lessons in Thrall, TX

Instruments: Piano Voice

I've been teaching voice and piano, both privately and in public schools, for 12 years in the Austin area. I have taught all ages and styles and am open to any kind of music. I believe in practice and routine as a foundation to learning, but also improvisation and experimentation. I learn best across multiple media and I LOVE using the internet and a variety of applications to supplement my student's studies. 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 Guitar Voice Violin Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Darrell worked at the primary, secondary/preparatory, and tertiary levels at some of the top-rated private schools in New York, conducting and directing since 1986.  He has been a professional producer, director, performer and private instructor/mentor in Austin, Texas since 2009. Performing since 1980, Darrell has worked with all levels of musicians, from beginners to professionals in a wide variety of genres in many facets of music production, from center stage to backstage and in the recording studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Drums

To be successful at an instrument, it's important for a student to have something that drives their motivation. Playing an instrument is fun, but is also a lot of work and takes practice, perseverance, and patience. I strive to make lessons fun and to help the student find what encourages them to persevere. Music is a language: you must learn to speak, listen to, read and write a language to be fluent. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Flute Clarinet Recorder French Horn Piccolo Oboe Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For very young piano/keyboard students, lessons go more smoothly if they know right hand and left hand, count to 10 and know ABC's. They learn to read music almost immediately, and I give them the tools to be able to pick up any piece of music and play it independently. Regular performance opportunities are provided to show off acquired skills and progress of students and application of knowledge is encouraged through original composition. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Since I specialize in teaching first time learners, I allow as much time needed to master fundamentals before advancement to anything else. It is key to build a strong foundation, this upholds most importance to me. Setting realistic goals for students and milestones will be made to set them up for success in the future. Incentives/awards will be gifted upon reaching certain milestones catered to the appropriate age. Learning is fun and should be approached in that way! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

Each student is unique in the way they learn and progress. I come in to each new lesson trying to learn what works best for each student, as well as what each student is trying to gain from the lessons. For example a very young student may just need exposure to the world of music in a very fun learing atmosphere, while an older or more advanced student may want more a more intense lesson. Read More