Music Lessons in Independence, MO

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium

I was a navy musician for 14 years and was with the navy band northeast in Newport, Rhode Island then with the US Naval Forces Europe Band.  Had a chance to perform in 28 countries between Europe and Africa including Russia, Italy, France, Greece, Nigeria and Gabon.  After four years of living in Italy, the navy moved me to Navy Band Great Lakes in Illinois.  Been a featured euphonium or trombone soloist in all three bands.  Currently I am working on a doctoral degree at the Hartt School of Music in West Hartford, CT. Read More

Instruments: Piano

In my studio, I have found that the greatest results from consistent thoughtful practice. My experience of performance and practice have helped me develop a method that has proven successful in my studio.I was taught in the Russian piano school and have found that the incorporation method of performance, technique, theory, and music history give a well-balanced foundation for creative development of musicians. I have worked with students from age 3-65 and all levels from beginner to advanced and found this method works the best. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Clarinet

I have been teaching lessons since High School. Back then, I mostly taught beginner students on the Piano. Since College, I have expanded my teaching repertoir to include Piano, Organ, Violin, and Viola. For the past 7 years, I have been teaching and instructing my students on the best practices as blossoming musicians. Nothing can make you a better musician than practice and consistency. No matter what genre of music you are interested in, you must practice.There will always be times were you have toforce yourself to practice (because it won't always be fun), but the gains are never dull.It has been my experience that those students who apply themselves diligently, love to play the songs that they have mastered over and over again. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Ukulele Music

For beginners, I always start with a classical approach, which stresses the importance of posture and breathing. We'll usually start with the First Book of [Voice Part]'s Solos and mix in one or two musical theater pieces. This is in tandem with learning how to warm up, learn pieces, what memorizing looks like, and how to emote. These are constantly evolving things that can be used with any skill level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning students who are children, I like to start with Hal Leonard's Piano for Beginners. Progress will depend on the students' willingness to learn and practice as well as encouragement from their parents. For students who already have an understanding of basic fundamentals, I will assess their skill level and select music appropriate for their progression and level of play. Adult beginner students are more than welcome to use piano books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Organ Ukulele Recorder Keyboard Djembe

For beginner's, I do typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books. For intermediate, I'll evaluate what materials they've used thus far in their lessons and go from there. If someone is familiar with a set of books in a positive way, there's no reason to change the books they're using. I do believe, however, there is profit in a variety of repertoire, so a diverse lesson is key. I have learned from experience that simply learning one genre (classical, jazz, showtunes) is less desirable than having a familiar ear to multiple styles. Read More