Music Lessons in Hallam, NE

Instruments: Drums

I believe that a good teacher is one that listens well and brings out the best qualities in their students. I will help young students learn the basics of drumming from rudiments, technique, and sight-reading. For more advanced students I am able to guide them into more complex topics such as musical creativity, feel, and improvisation. I will also be able to help students with the behavioral and psychological aspects of consistent practicing and live performing as I have a background in psychology. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music

Before entering graduate school, I served as a band director in Illinois public schools for two years. During that time, I taught a 4th grade recorder class, 5th grade band, 6th grade band, 7th/8th grade band, and high school band. During graduate school I was the instructor of horn for the Western Illinois University Summer Music Institute, and I have taught private horn lessons to a variety of undergraduate music students as a part of my graduate teaching assistantship at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

For beginning trumpet students, I start with a combination of Clark and Arbank Technical studies for a formal structure. A majority of the technical teaching I do is based on these two methods. I also implement techniques from the Sheridan and Pilafian Breathing Gym to establish the fundamental mechanics of generating sound. For all students, regardless of ability, lessons will have some foundation in the breath and the mechanics of breathing. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I am someone who believes that nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! That's why it is so important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Essentials Element Piano Theory. I like to separate practical and theory in different sessions so that they are familiar and comfortable with reading the notes while playing. I would also start with some fun and interesting melodies to get the kids engaged. When it comes to learning theories, I would use fun and creative symbols that associates symbols in music to get the student to remember them better. Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Tuba

My teaching philosophy is centered around creating a love for music and the skills to pursue individual musical interests effectively. The goal is to become a "musician", not just learn the rudiments of playing an instrument or singing properly. Thus, I include a lot of focus on expressive musicality - even early on - as well as a deliberate and purposeful inclusion of history, culture, and related topics; even some psychology! Read More