Flute Lessons in Old Hickory, TN

Instruments: Piano Flute

My teaching style focuses on a student's strengths and successes. Any time a student has an "a ha!" moment, we stop and dissect what exactly happened. Perhaps the student used a new lip placement or air angle? We talk about this and figure out what they did to improve. Next, I encourage that same type of change in other aspects of their playing. I believe you cannot get better at an instrument by focusing on what you do wrong. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

Fostering the interest in music into a passion within my students is the ideal teaching situation. This is why I place importance on listening to the student's goals to make decisions for certain parts of the curriculum. There are technical and theoretical skills that must be learned, but the students have some choices in materials. Meeting them where they want to be is some of the strongest motivation I can provide for my students. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I began teaching as a college student, conducting workshops at high schools. I then began to teach on an individual basis, and instructed students of all ages and abilities. Through these experiences, I found joy in teaching and love having fun with my students. I learned the best way to motivate my students was by making my lessons as fun, education and enjoyable as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Piccolo Oboe Music Acoustic Guitar

I began teaching music in high school by leading flute sectionals in the marching band and music theory to my fellow choir members. I focused on performing during my undergraduate studies; then had the opportunity to share my musical talents in a different way when I began my music therapy career. In music therapy, I used music to address musical and non-musical goals. I have taught adaptive lessons for guitar and piano to teenagers through the senior age group. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Flute Clarinet

I like to spend the first lesson figuring out what the student knows so that I can formulate lesson plans that are relevant and chronological. Once a rapport is established, I introduce material that is both accessible and challenging and help the student work through the music. First we work on playing the right notes and rhythms, then we add musicality and expression. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

First, I believe it is important all students have a firm grasp on the fundamentals of the instrument, which may include some scale exercises, for example. Once we achieve a basic level, we can move along to some solo repertoire, etudes, and tunes that target a specific area to keep lessons fun and engaging, all while reaffirming subjects learned previously. Regarding jazz and improvisation, lessons will cover a broad spectrum, ranging from modal improvisation, to bebop and postmodern styles, all while focusing on harmonic functionality and individual expression. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For my beginning students who are children on piano, I typically start with Alfred's Basic piano books. There are so many levels and it helps them understand the basics. With the piano books there are also theory workbooks that give them a chance to think about what they are actually doing when it comes to making music. With the older students on piano, I stick with Alfred's Piano books for adults. Read More