Music Lessons in Newberg, OR

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Fiddle

Kathleen utilizes the Suzuki, Galamian, and Flesch method systems, as well as integrating music theory and aural skills into every lesson. When teaching classical violin and piano, she emphasizes listening skills and applied theory to help develop strong sight-reading skills. In fiddle lessons, she creates practice videos and audio files for students to practice along with in between lessons, incorporating use of the metronome to increase speed and rhythmic stability. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

Each student is at a different level, and therefore requires different teaching methods. I like to implement the Hanon exercises for scales and warm-ups, also focusing on things like scales and arpeggios. For the guitar, I like to incorporate these concepts with chordal exercises as well, such as playing progressions to let the student's fingers grow accustomed to their forms. I then let the student tell me what his or her focus is, such as theoretical, classical, or popular. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

What I enjoy about teaching is helping students reach their goals and being able to see their improvement from week to week. Everyone learns differently so it is a lot of fun to try different things and find the specific way that each student will thrive. The most important thing is that the student is having fun and feels like they are getting the most out of our time together. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The first thing I do with all of my students is figure out what kind music they are passionate about. Knowing what my students musical tastes and goals are is extremely important so I can help get them to the place they are envisioning themselves. Once I have a general idea of what my student wants to learn I can tailor specific lessons that fit their ideas specifically. I find that this keeps students the most excited because they have a personal goal to strive for rather than trying to teach them something they are not interested in. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My teaching style can be adjusted to each particular student. Some students take piano lessons for relaxation, others are wanting to pursue a career in music. I can teach for both styles or even a combination of both styles. I set goals for each week that is provided in the piano homework or play work that I assign. I find this works very well. I have a very calm approach to my teaching and do not force things to work or happen. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba Orchestral Percussion

My philosophy is, music is fun! I keep lessons light and friendly. I encourage questions. If a student doesn't understand a concept, I can probably describe it in a few different ways. but to save time, ask questions! I believe in honest praise and warm criticism. There are no bad vibes in my studio! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Synthesizer

For beginning students, I have used Hal Leonard's Essential Elements as well as Nancy Faber's Adventures series. For piano students, I like to use Hanon exercises to develop not only necessary musculature but also disciplined use of a metronome for practicing. For students interested in exploring music theory and/or jazz, I use the Real Book combined with my own materials explaining the theory around chord symbols, chord scales, modes, and the like. Read More