Music Lessons in Amherst, OH

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My approaches change depending on a students age, experience, and personality. Every student is unique and has their own musical language to develop and it is my philosophy that unique students require unique approaches. All of that being said, I utilize lesson time as efficiently as possible to give students the tools they need to progress in their own solo practice. One of my teachers once said "I am only your teacher for an hour each week, that means for 167 hours a week you are your own teacher." This adage shaped my approach to lessons so that I can give students the ability to practice as effectively as possible. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Unique among any musical instrument, the voice is an indelible part of the human body and human experience, and as such there is no deeper or more fulfilling reward than using the voice to give the gift of music, passion, and artistic expression. But like playing any other musical instrument, vocalism requires constant practice, discipline and care to cultivate into an effective and healthful talent. By blending foundational techniques and triggering my students' unique musical passions, I strive to offer a learning experience that is as efficacious as it is enjoyable. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo

I use the Alfred Piano series for most of my piano students. Woodwind students will use either Rubank or Hal Leonard series of books. During the first lesson, I will clarify the student's goals and needs and choose a book accordingly. I also add finger warm-ups and breathing exercises. Students are encouraged to pick a song from their own choosing to learn as a "fun-song". I try to cover these three things in every lesson, however I am flexible to meet the goals of my students. My professional motto is that I will do "Whatever it takes" for my students to succeed. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As far as my teaching methods go, I do not use any of the course books commonly used by many teachers and studios. I feel that this cookie cutter approach doesnt successfully work for everybody as it assumes everyone is the same. I have taught thousands of students over the decades and can say that I havent seen two students exactly alike the entire time. Instead I get to know the students and their goals and streamline a method to get them to accomplish their goals in the shortest possible time. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I learned from the best teachers who are proactive. I am always studying music and when I was developing into a professional musician I practiced many hours every week for years. When I realized I was performing with bad posture and poor ergonomics I went back and developed a much better technique which I use to this day. I can immediately identify problems with your style and show you how to fix them. Read More

Instruments: Flute Recorder Piccolo

I began teaching private lessons 6 years ago during my studies of a undergraduate. While living in Tennessee I maintained a studio of many students ranging from age 8 to age 50. I believe that lessons are about what the students want to know and I am very willing to give them what they want. I encourage students to work towards competitions, recitals, and their own projects. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

Each lesson varies according to the needs and level of the student. A typical lesson would start out with some kind of technique exercise, scales, and arpeggios. Then we would move on to some kind of musical piece. The song will be learned in its correct form with all proper notes, rhythms, dynamics and tempo markings. Musicality and terminology will also be discussed. Singing will also be implemented at any point during the lesson with regards to intonation, phrasing, or musical gesture. Read More