Music Lessons in Highland Park, MN

Instruments: Guitar

I have been performing since age 7 playing classical piano in recitals with my sister. I got my first guitar at the age of 12. At 15 I was playing around town with different bands. After years of playing in garage bands, I applied to Wayne State University and enrolled in their music department. I have a variety of musical experiences to draw from which is a benefit to my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I started teaching in 2008 and my studio at its maximum capacity was 30 students - a large portion with whom I worked consistently for 3 years until I decided pursue graduate school. While at UNL I taught applied voice and diction, and literature classes as a teaching assistant. Organizing voice classes, studio recitals, and theatrical coachings are resources I have used and will continue to use in the studio to develop a student's full performance potential. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe

As a teacher, I've learned so much from my colleagues and peers, but likely not as much as I've learned from my students. I've found that some teaching practices are outdated and I think I can bring a fresh and modern perspective to teaching music. I like to base my lessons around the student's natural curiosity and desire for learning music. Whether that be trying to play in the school band or wanting to learn a Led Zeppelin song, I believe that giving my students this ability to make their own decisions, helps them become more confident, motivated, and passionate about succeeding as a musician as well as in their own personal lives. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Synthesizer Music Keyboard

I teach with a very casual approach. It's not a science or math class. ( I guess it actually is in all regards ). Different student have different needs. I believe in finding out a students wants. I had a younger student who wanted to Zeppelin on the Alto. "Okay" So I showed the student exactly what to do. He had no knowledge of music but I knew that if he enjoyed it, he'd keep playing and playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello

Guitar: For children, I prefer the FJH Young Beginner Guitar method, but for adults I would prefer Hal Leonard if the student is looking to learn both chords and melody using folk music. I could also teach guitar based on gospel and Christian praise music if the student prefers. I have taught students with an interest in rock music, but only to give them the basic foundation skills of chords and notes to build on with another teacher who has more of a rock music speciality. Read More

Instruments: Flute Recorder Piccolo Music

I do not have one style of teaching that I prefer to use with my students. I strive to make each lesson plan based on the student's individual needs, desires, and goals for their lesson time. I believe that this makes the material more attainable and more engaging. As I get to know my student's learning styles, I can adjust my plans to meet there different needs. I am able to make a comfortable environment for my students that make lessons fun, because music is fun! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am straight-forward with my students. I address the issues right away and reference the correct methods. I will explain the answer until the student understands. I will take my time to explain the issue and get creative until we both are on the same page. I value "having confidence in yourself" and use cheerleading statements to bring out their inner-confidence. Some books I currently use or reference with my students include: "Totally Interactive Band Bible", "Music Success in Nine Weeks", "Fast Track - Chords & Scales for Guitar", "The Bass- a comprehensive approach book 1", Total Guitar". Read More