Piano Lessons in West Linn, OR

Instruments: Piano

Most lessons involve sight-reading, theory, and repertoire. I try to find a balance between introducing new music and reviewing older pieces. I am not a task master, but I do love to give positive reinforcement and praise for quality work and effort. I encourage my students to give me honest feedback on the material that they are working on. I will often ask them if they like the music they are playing or if they have any specific requests. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a relaxed and easy-going teacher. I am good at staying focused but also fun to be around! I know that learning to play an instrument carries a unique set of challenges for each person, and these can be frustrating. Because I've experienced these challenges myself, my primary goal is to be there for my students, guiding them through the difficult moments as well as the joyful. I care about the student's progress more than sticking to a pre-determined rule book. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Synthesizer

I strive to be a balanced teacher that engages the students musical interests while also setting a high (but patient) bar for technical facility and discipline. As someone who has received classical and jazz training, I love to be able to provide students those dual/complimentary curriculum tracks, and, for those students that are eager to dig in to the theory side of things, connect the dots between. Throughout lessons and following up on previous weeks, I always make a point of acknowledging the progress that has been made before honing in on problem areas or the aspects with room for improvement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

His music has been performed on stages worldwide, including Colombia, the USA, Japan, and Korea, by various clarinet quartets and wind orchestras. High-level artists have commissioned all the pieces for clarinet and clarinet ensembles, and their premieres have opened new artistic avenues for Juan. As a teacher, he has successfully mentored numerous students over the years, many of whom have gone on to complete university degrees in clarinet and composition. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Ukulele Recorder

In 2011, Chuck moved to Portland, Oregon from Gainesville, Florida, where he was a staple of the music teaching and performing community for more than 25 years. Originally from Chicago, Chuck completed his BA in Music History and a Masters of Music (MM) at the University of Florida. Chuck began piano lessons at age 12 at a time when The Beatles caught his attention. His first attempt at composing was actually improvising melodies over the ending chords to "Hey Jude". Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Keyboard

In addition to my current work as an accompanist, I've been teaching piano for 20+ years, and I love partnering with students to help them grow musically and realize their dreams. Some of my students have gone on to be professionals or teachers, and some are playing the music they love with their friends. Others are playing in their churches or in bands, and some play simply for personal enjoyment. My lesson focus depends on the student goals, but I will always include elements of theory, as it facilitates a deeper understanding of the music, allowing students the capability of creating their own music and playing in many different styles. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

For beginning students in piano, I like to use either the Alfred Reed books or the Piano Adventure method books. It really depends on which the student understands the best! Both offer a variety of explanations on musical elements and topics, while also offering a variety of pieces to play. Once certain topics and musical elements are covered, I like to have the student pick a solo piece from several that I will have ready, which will also reflect the new musical elements that were covered. Read More