PhD, University of Florida, Music Composition (ABD - expected Spring, 2018); MA, Mills College, Music Composition (2011); BS, Northeastern University, Music Technology (2009)
Awards:
2016 - Associate Artist at the Atlantic Center for the Arts; 2015 - University of Florida A. Didier Graeffe Scholarship; 2012-16 - University of Florida Graduate Fellowship; 2011 - Elizabeth Mills Crothers Award for Outstanding Musical Composition; 2011 - First prize in the ASCAP/SEAMUS Student Commission Competition;
Overview:
My interest in music began at a very young age. In high school I studied music theory and took guitar lessons. At that time, I became fascinated with all of the iconic electric guitar virtuosos from classic to contemporary rock - the performance practice and technique on one hand, but also how these devices were framed by a larger musical context outside of the guitar itself. I attended Northeastern University, Boston, and focused on the classical guitar in addition to pursuing a degree in music technology and composition. I have continued my professional musical life primarily as a composer and have been fortunate to receive support from academic institutions. But my fascination with the guitar has not lessened and it is still my go-to instrument.
EXPERIENCE
My most recent teaching experience has been at a local University, where I have had the great pleasure of teaching courses in music technology since 2014. Working in a classroom environment has been both challenging and rewarding and has strengthened my versatility as a teacher. But unlike the classroom where I have to focus more generally to help many students, private lessons allow me to focus on students' individual goals, while still bringing the expertise and rigor of the classroom. Before beginning my PhD Fellowship, I taught private lessons on acoustic and electric guitar using a service similar to Musika. I really enjoy the amount of attention and detail of communication that I can offer in one on one settings.
METHODS USED
There is a wealth of great instructional books by Mel Bay and Hal Leonard. In general I do not use any one volume exclusively, rather, I like to get a feel for the student's interests and goals and develop a lesson plan accordingly. I think it is incredibly beneficial for all musicians to have some kind of tried and true manual for reference, and so I encourage all of my students to work with at least one book. Since most students already have certain songs or pieces they would like to learn, having a book for reference provides them an opportunity to make connections between the technical details of a manual and the music that they listen to and love!
LESSON STYLE
As a teacher, I aim to support and nurture the inspiration that drives students to study an instrument in the first place. Music is a vast and complex discipline, and it takes time, practice, and patience. One of the best qualities a teacher can display is compassion and humility, and in my experience, teaching with positive reinforcement is much more effective than negative. Some students set small goals and work gradually while others are more ambitious and progress quickly through challenging exercises. I respect both approaches. Music functions differently for everyone, so no matter what a student's ultimate goals are, the idea is that lessons should be a comfortable and enriching, fun experience grounded in the deep meaning we all find in music.
Leave a Review
Leave a Review
REVIEW
Post A Review
Verification
Background check cleared
Social security verified
Name verified
Phone verified
Email verified
Address verified
Studio Locations
Check out our A+
Rating from the Better Business Bureau
100% Risk-Free Trial Lesson
If you are not satisfied after your trial lesson, you will not be charged and we can match you with another teacher.
Ready to Get Started? Take a Risk Free Trial Lesson!