Music Lessons in Alton, IL

Instruments: Clarinet

How do I teach? Weekly lessons (in-person or virtual) motivate the student and give them a chance to perform every week Student plays their assigned repertoire and I will often ask them to critique themselves to become active and critical thinkers and diagnosticians I'll share what I think the student can work on and we'll work on the repertoire together in the lesson I always have my clarinet out and will play with and for them when needed I send follow-up lesson notes and occasional resources The repertoire I assign is meant to challenge and excite the student as it lies just at the edge of their comfort zone but within their capabilities with a little practice I aim to always provide honest and helpful feedback Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Double Bass Mallet Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have had great success in continually trying to adapt my methods to what works best for each student. This makes the lesson very personal for the student as well as very fresh and exciting for me. I have had 8 different piano teachers, varoius band directors, college professors, personal private flamenco and jazz lessons. I have played with some of the best players in St. Louis- many of which were also university professors or symphonic performers. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning and intermediate students I utilize the Bastien Method books series, which includes supplemental Theory and Technique books that can be purchased if needed.  These students each select performance pieces which they enjoy and are level-appropriate from a variety of sources. More advanced students focus primarily on challenging performance pieces, several of which are selected as 'keepers' for practice and review.  Lessons include technique practice (scales, arpeggios, finger exercises), theory (from textbooks, flashcards etc.) music history, instrument mechanics, ear training and musicianship (such as rhythm and sight reading drills, dictation) and student compositions (notation and continuation methods). Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with note naming and sound. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. 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. My goal in my method is to get my students fluent in playing the piano and knowing the methods of piano. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Piccolo Keyboard

My teaching style places emphasis on relationship building, knowledge grabbing and demonstration. Developing a relationship includes relatability, comfort & communication. Here humor is used. Smiles & laughs always lessens the stress & makes learning enjoyable. In addition, time-management and the setting of daily goals together encourages the info retention. Verification of individualized overactive is emphasised within my teachings as well. It is highly important for students to demonstrate skills daily & throughout the session. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I also believe that Piano Lessons should be fun. Since I generally teach one on one, lessons can be tailored to each student and I add supplementary material to the Piano course as soon as possible based on the student’s progress and interests.  I am willing to add supplementary music in most any genre from current radio hits, to Pop Standards and soundtracks, as well as Holiday Music based on the student’s culture. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Also known under my stage name Lady Mak, I am currently the lead female vocalist for Missouri based band, Spontaneous Serendipity.  I've made it to the producer rounds for popular TV shows Duets, American Idol, The Voice, and Americas Got Talent.  I was also invited by the Kansas City Chiefs organization to perform at half time for the Breast Cancer Awareness game on October 13, 2013 for a sold out Arrowhead Stadium. Read More