Voice Lessons in Stilwell, KS

Instruments: Voice

I always start by asking the student if he/she has any goals or upcoming performances they'd like to concentrate on.  If so, we focus mainly on that goal, while also incorporating vocal exercises and other methods to continually improve the voice.  Otherwise, we will start with mainly vocal exercises (which will grow in difficulty as we master the easier ones), and after a few weeks, start applying what we've learned in the exercises to some songs (usually folk songs, art songs, Broadway, occasionally some opera). Read More

Instruments: Voice

I am a recent graduate of Kansas State Unviersity's vocal music program and am incredibly excited the share my love of music with you! Throughout college, I had the opportunity to perform with many different groups in many different styles. I performed with two different 9 member vocal jazz ensembles singing jazz standards, latin, samba and bebop charts. I performed with 3 different mixed voice choirs as well as a large all-male ensemble singing in countless styles. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My biggest focus with my students is building confidence! I strive to always be encouraging. I believe that we are capable of accomplishing much more when we believe that we can do it! One of the most important building blocks of confidence is consistent practice. I will make sure my students leave their lessons with a plan for the coming week’s practice. I will do my best to make sure this practice is both purposeful and enjoyable. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Each student is different from the other, so every lesson will be tailored to their skill level and wants. I like to set goals. For me it keeps it interesting, and it makes me work hard to achieve them. My goal as a teacher is to keep students interested and challenged. Each lesson will end with realistic goal for the next lesson. The very first lesson will talk about long-term goals and as well as weekly goals so that it gives the students incentive to practice and work hard. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I believe each student has unique gifts. I love watching my students thrive by encouraging self-exploration as we learn about music. If a student loves playing by ear, we seek knowledge of composition more, if they are inspired to play Star Wars, we add that to the repertoire. If a good solid foundation is built through the sequential lesson books along with motivating material, retention is higher. Encouragement of progression at his or her own pace by understanding each students gifts, along with realistic goals and practice, aids in well rounded musicians. Read More

Instruments: Voice Music

My methods vary greatly dependent upon the needs of the student. For younger students, I start with early fundamentals (music in general, breathing, and confidence) through easy songs that are recognizable and fun to learn. As a student ages, the voice matures, so I assess a student's vocal qualities and give them appropriate rep through their voice changing. For teens and adults, I focus on finding appropriate pieces that are in line with a student's preferred genre. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have used several curricula and books by Mel Bay, Alfred, Hal Leonard and others. But in the last 15 years I have developed and used mostly my own books and recordings which are very thorough. I started developing this curriculum out of necessity because there was no one book that helped my students from a beginner phase all the way through intermediate and advanced levels in guitar playing. I incorporate both music fundamentals in note reading with basic guitar friendly concepts in chording up to advanced open chords. Read More