Music Lessons in Oberlin, OH

Instruments: Saxophone

For most students, I use the Rubank Method books as a foundation for basic fundamentals of the instrument. I use Jamey Aebersold's books as a foundation for jazz and popular music when students are ready. After that, I like giving my students individual work that is tailored to their needs like solos, jazz tunes, and more. I also challenge my students to take control of their learning by being resourceful. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Orchestral Percussion

Each student learns differently and I accommodate and tailor my lessons accordingly. Percussion beginners will build their foundation on the standard snare drum rudiments and Moeller technique. So will the professionals. Beginner guitar students will focus on tuning the instrument, basic chords, scales and playing techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello

When i start a beginner student, i like to use either Essential Elements or Suzuki for violin and cello. For piano, i like to use the Faber method books. As the student progresses with either instrument, I try to encourage them to continue with scales and to move up in their playing abilities and music reading. I try to mix it up for my students and ask them what they like to play just to keep them interested. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I've been teaching since 2006 at Baldwin - Wallace College, where I became an Adjunct Lecturer in Piano by the recommendation of the piano pedagogy faculty in 2007.  When in town, I've been teaching students primarily from ages 5-25, in traditional repertory and to help other older musicians hone specific skills.  I've taught students who have played in recitals, church services; including students who composed music that appeared in the Cannes International Film Festival, and students who wished to only play privately.  I pride myself in my strong technique which I credit to my background with the Cleveland Institute of Music, which is one of the biggest benefits that my students quickly take on.  I specialize in teaching classical music, and I also teach basic jazz and pop improvisation, to all ages. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I believe each student is unique, and aim to help the student fall deeper in love with the guitar by meeting them where they are at with their own interests and desires with the instrument. I have had multiple different instructors throughout my life, and some of them seem to have had their own agenda and what they wanted me to be learning. I instead prefer to understand what the students goals are with the guitar, and devise lesson plans based on what each student hopes to gain from taking lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo

I use the Alfred Piano series for most of my piano students. Woodwind students will use either Rubank or Hal Leonard series of books. During the first lesson, I will clarify the student's goals and needs and choose a book accordingly. I also add finger warm-ups and breathing exercises. Students are encouraged to pick a song from their own choosing to learn as a "fun-song". I try to cover these three things in every lesson, however I am flexible to meet the goals of my students. My professional motto is that I will do "Whatever it takes" for my students to succeed. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Euphonium French Horn

As I've said above, my teaching is curtailed to the individual needs of my students. I stress development as a complete musician, and that often includes breaking away from technique to discuss other ideas like music theory, ear training, etc. Most importantly, I can explain difficult concepts in many ways. I am a degreed educator, having studied various learning styles and philosophies. I incorporate techniques from Kodaly, Orff, Suzuki, Dalcroze, Alexander--- each student has different needs. Read More