Music Lessons in Fort Mcdowell, AZ

Instruments: Piano Voice

I absolutely love watching a student who has tried to understand a concept suddenly light up, smile, and say, "Oh, now I get it!" I believe that a teacher should try a variety of ways to help a student understand and "own" their musical knowledge. I set high standards for my students, starting where they are and encourgaing them to go beyond what they think is their personal best. I have students write goal and wish lists down throughout the year, setting small, reachable goals and then larger goals that may take longer to reach. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Trombone Clarinet Synthesizer Ukulele Recorder Euphonium Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students depending on the instrument of choice, I use: (In no particular order) Standard of Excellence for Band Instruments, consistent with school best practice methods Piano Adventures by Nancy and Randall Faber, for consistency and technique development as well as decent solo repertoire for recitals Hal Leonard's Complete Guitar Course or Alfred, both are good sources. Rainbow Ukulele for younger students in elementary school plus a combination of supplemental materials I've gathered over the years. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Faber - John Thompson - Bastien - Alfred - Hal Leonard etc Shirley tries to fit the student to the method. Every method doesn't work for every one. Age and experience and ability all play important factors into the method that is used for you or your child personally. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Keyboard Electric Guitar

I generally like to start my beginning students with lesson plans from the book" The Secrets of playing Piano by Ear" by Jermaine Griggs. 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. I try to focus on what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lesson fresh and FUN! Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass Music

I like to teach my students with more of a coaching style. I want to know what their intentions are as a bass player, their willingness to put in the work. After understanding what my students want to accomplish, then we create goals and strategies along the way to ensure they are improving at the desired rate. The best bass players in the professional world are often the most consistent with their work ethic, taking the time to develop their ears, their reading skills in addition to their practice regimen. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am a unique teacher who realizes that not every student is the same, or wants to learn the same type of music in the same way. I almost consider myself more of a COACH than a teacher. Yes, I do teach, and I am classically trained. However, I am more suited for the beginning/intermediate/late intermediate student (13 years of age or older) who wants to learn NEW ways of playing and performing a variety of music. Read More