Music Lessons in Clear Creek, IN

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Synthesizer Lap Steel Guitar

My approach to teaching is to start simple and break down topics and themes into smaller goals that help the student feel a sense of accomplishment and eager to learn more. By letting the student's inspiration lead the way I can successfully guide them to reach those goals that they might not have had before starting the lesson. Nothing is more important for me than for a student's own creative mind to further their own curiosity from learning how to play their favorite song, understand a musical concept or make their instrument sound how they feel. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I started playing guitar at age 8. In my formative years I studied with various instructors around central Indianapolis until mid year of '85. Upon this time I studied a full year with James Lee Thorpe whom eventually played, toured recorded with Sweet F.A. They released albums with MCA Chrysalis Records. I began composing my own riffs, melodies and solo work at age 15 also. I studied Music Theory my Junior year at Ben Davis High School. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

Experience has led me to instead encourage my students to listen to recordings of themselves and others after they finish learning their music, so they have a chance to develop their own ideas of the piece first. In New Zealand I learned to play on Hamburg Steinways, instruments that need care to make a full, round sound when playing loud. This helped me to form and teach a technique grounded in efficient use of arm weight versus muscle. Read More

Instruments: Violin

When it comes to playing the violin, the automaticism of such motions as in what is required to efficiently and effortlessly master one’s craft begins with the simplicity of a regimented practice pattern and structured rhythmic pattern done everyday. This must be cradled by a safety net of inner Development. Without developing the Heart one cannot develop the craft. I find a deep relationship between Meditation practice and Classical music intermindlged with Jungian psychology that I feel attuned to at the heart of the insular development of potential individuation that can propel one forward into the depths of the ecstasy of life that is pungent and honest. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo

I start with a few different books depending on the student's interest. I try to encourage younger students to learn to read music. I have often used the Hal Leornard Guitar Method. Often adult students want to focus more on learning chords and how to play a few songs. Sometimes I use the Hal Learnard Tab Method or my own 16 page beginner's guitar book. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Similar to what is written above I prefer an approach that is rooted in the fundamentals. It is my belief that learning these well can serve a student later on when the music starts to become more difficult. Most students I have that have learned in this way tend to not get overwhelmed and are able to transition to higher levels of playing more easily. One of my favorite quotes is "The advanced level is mastery of the basics" which I have found to be true. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

Music is one of my many passions in life, and nothing pleases me more than sharing and teaching others about the wonderful skills that are developed when playing musical instruments. I'm the ultimate people person, taking the best interest in each individual student in order to progress their skills at an appropriate rate that is fun and exciting with each lesson! Music is challenging and can be frusterating at times, but leave it to me to help break down and simplify it so you can gain confidence in yourself and overall enjoy each lesson as we take steps towards your own goals. Read More