Voice Lessons in Riverside, MO

Instruments: Voice

My teaching experience began when I was in grad school, where I taught a few students at a local high school. Since moving to the KC area eight years ago, I have been consistently teaching and gradually building my private studio, which now has over 20 students! I love working with young singers (specifically grades 8-12) and helping them find the potential in their voices.  I have encountered the full range of ability levels, from very experienced (had lessons before, sung multiple solos in school choir, had lead roles in musicals, etc.) to complete novice (no lessons, no choir experience).  My overall approach to lessons is the same, regardless of ability level: consistent improvement from week to week using vocal exercises, songs, and an exploration of breath and the physicality of singing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching experience has been with my church choir. I started out as the accompanist and helper. A year or so later I found myself in the conductor's seat. For two years I worked with my church's choir to bring out the best that they could be, and to bring joy to the congregation. Not only did I conduct the choir, but I was their accompanist as well. I tried to bring a mix of old and contemporary to the table because I believe being a well-rounded musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I have studied many teaching methods, including Orff, Suzuki, the Russian music school. Essential to the Russian music school of piano method are touch, tone and expressiveness. When playing piano, posture, hand position and other fundamentals are very important. I use elements of all of these methods, tailored to the needs and abilities of my individual students. In vocal lessons, my method is based on breath control and learning to sing a musical piece the way the composer intended, emotionally and expressively. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Acoustic Guitar

for beginning students who are children and just starting out, i typically start with the basic elements of either voice or guitar, depending on which lesson you have chosen. once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire which is age - appropriate of course, in hopes of preparing them for a first recital, perhaps. for adults, i try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Ukulele Music

For beginners, I always start with a classical approach, which stresses the importance of posture and breathing. We'll usually start with the First Book of [Voice Part]'s Solos and mix in one or two musical theater pieces. This is in tandem with learning how to warm up, learn pieces, what memorizing looks like, and how to emote. These are constantly evolving things that can be used with any skill level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Flute Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I believe in a student learning to hear music and think for themselves. Through ear training, creativity, and learning "how" music works, the goal is to get each student to not need a teacher to learn their instrument, but want a teacher so they may become their best version of it. I focus on this as a primary value in my studio. In lessons, we'll use formulas and concepts to understand "why" things sound good, and "how" we actually get better. Read More