Music Lessons in New Germany, MN

Instruments: Violin Viola

My name is Marissa, and I am a dedicated and passionate musician and teacher! I play the viola and violin, and graduated this past spring of 2017 from Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music. This fall I will continue my education at the University of Minnesota for my Masters of Music in Viola Performance. Over the course of my college career, I have had the opportunity to perform as principal endowed violist in the Luther College Symphony Orchestra across the United States, as well as a residency in Vienna, Austria playing in venues like the world famous Konzert Haus. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

They will also be taught methods designed to help embrace the character being performed and to enjoy the act of performing. Piano students can expect training focused on building finger strength and flexibility along with sight reading and improvisation training. Piano students can also expect more theory training to complement improvisation and to more fully understand the music at hand. Beginning piano pedagogy focuses on agile, slightly curved fingers, an aligned and free back and arms, proper use of the pedals, and creating a clear and even strike. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

For the first couple lessons I try to gauge how advanced students are in their studies. From then on, I choose material that is feasible and challenging so that students grow accordingly. A lot of learning comes from persistence and practice, so that is a must when it comes to learning with me! I try to find out what motivates the student and what makes them so interested in trumpet and go off of that. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

There should always be a balance between the two. One important aspect of teaching is listening, and while I will always assign something for the student to work on directly on their instrument, I always try and find something for them to listen to as well. This is a key component in any student's education. If you don't know how you want to sound, then how can I help you get there? Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I choose the books according to my assessment of the student during the introductory lesson. The Faber Method is one of the more popular ones. I also use the Alfred All-in-One books series. As supplemental material, I use Keynote Speller by Shaum and Line a Day by Keith Snell.  For solo repertoire, I select methods based on the skills and favorite pieces of each student. Recently, there have been published and won the love of millions of teachers and students around the world, 2-books "Tales of Musical Journey" by Irina Gorin, for beginners. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I teach students technique, theory, Classical repertoire, and also whichever contemporary pieces they would like to learn. I can learn almost any style and teach it by ear. So in a typical lesson we will start with some scales or technique, move on to some Bach or Mozart, and then try something by ear. Some examples of songs I’ve been working on with students lately are: Chopin c minor Waltz, Sibelius opus 76 Etude, Prince purple rain, Motley Crew home sweet home, Duke Ellington A train, and La Nieve-which my own composition- But classical training is the basis where it all starts Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

I am motivated to foster a fun lesson environemnt.  I loved lessons growing up, and now enjoy the joys of teaching all ages. At my home studio, I teach voice piano and acting lessons to students of all ages. The Twin Cities fasters a rich and diverse musical community. I am happily performing locally with five different groups including two corporate bands, a jazz band, a funk group, an acoustic duo, and an original project. Read More