Violin Lessons in Wichita, KS

Instruments: Guitar Voice Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Have any of your students won awards or been selected for special honors? How have they succeeded?
I had the honor of working with US Army Veteran, Jason Allwood who took guitar lessons and also participated in therapeutic song writing sessions. He wrote a very inspiring song "I'll be Back which was about his journey to get back home and reconnect with his family. Although the song was very personal He decided to enter into the Miami VA Creative Arts competition of 2014. Veterans in particular were inspired by his story which he delivered through music. He won first prize in the original song category for the region. Later that year Jason relocated to the Bronx to be closer to his son. Unfortunately, Jason lost his life in 2015 while protecting a man who was violently attacked in the Bronx. He is the definition of an American Hero.

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am very proud of my work with Veterans through my non-profit organization "Music Therapy for Vets". The experience has empowered me with the realization that I can make a significant impact on the quality of life of Veteran's who deal with symptoms of PTSD, depression and other issues. Although i doubt my ability to fight for this country by joining the military, I at least have gained some insight into what it must be like to risk everything for love of our country. It has been a blessing to hear the musical message that these brave men and women share. I continue to be inspired by the individuals who I have met through this program.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
One reason I chose guitar as a primary instrument is because I had access to a guitar. My brother got a guitar for Christmas and then switched to the bass. Although I always loved all types of music, punk rock became a way for me to express myself. i learned how to play bar chords and found that I was able to play some of my favorite punk rock songs. I grew up in the Washington DC area which had a vibrant punk scene. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts were an inspiration to me. i was able to play some of her songs and gradually gained the confidence to learn more about music.

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
One of my first guitar teachers was a local DC guitarist/singer Bill Kyte. He was a local rocker in a band which played in Washington DC and the surrounding suberbs. He didn't read music but he could figure out any song by ear and write it down for me. I got a lot of negative feedback from friends and family when I was a beginner. People told me that girl's couldn't play guitar. My guitar teacher Bill reassured me by explaining "Everybody sucks for a while so keep practicing. Who cares what others say!" I took his advice and went on to pursue music surprising everyone but especially myself.

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