Music Lessons in Orchard, TX

Instruments: Violin Electric Violin Fiddle

Due to my training in the Suzuki Violin Method, I often start my beginner students with Suzuki Book 1. However, I supplement this music with exercises found in other method books, as well as fun games and activities that help my younger students learn more about the violin. I believe that they should start learning to read music early on in their education, and will provide games and flashcards that the student can use in order to help develop this skill. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I started teaching the piano right after I got out of college. From that day, the number of students began to slowly grow. I am always willing to go to the students' home for lessons as most students prefer that method, but I also have my home studio to teach from as well. Seeing the encouraged looks of my students always gives me joy to see that they are learning and even enjoying the music. Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin Viola Fiddle

I usually begin with the Suzuki method for both children and adults, and once the student has a good command of fundamental violin technique, we progress in the style of the student's primary interest. I am very open to teaching a variety of styles, and can put together a detailed lesson plan for any direction the student may choose. In the event that the student is primarily focused on areas other than the classical repertoire, I definitely begin with Mark O'Connor's violin method that is specifically designed for students interested in traditional folk and fiddle music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone Euphonium Tuba Keyboard

I have over 10 years of experience as a private instructor as I began teaching private lesson to middle schoolers as a senior in high school. I continued teaching younger musicians as I worked to earn my B.A. Music and M.Ed.. I am currently a high school band director and music teacher. When teaching total beginners, I like to start with a method book. I also spend a great deal of time discussing the importance of breath and practicing breathing gym exercises. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For students, if any caliber, I start by teaching fundamentals. Fundamentals make it possible to enjoy playing the instrument. This includes things like scales, breathing exercises, warmups. After that I then will begin teaching skills. Often times, when playing an instrument, one skill is made up of multiple skills. I like to focus on the smaller skills and fine tune them so students can grow on their instruments. Then, based on the students preferred style, I like to give song recommendations and then begin to work on the style. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I always give positive feedback on any execution before talking about things we can improve on. I do this to let them know that they are doing well, but we can always strive to get better. I always ask "how does that feel" and "do you understand"? I do this because singing should never hurt. If it hurts then its wrong and we need to correct it. I ask the second question, again, to make sure there are no communication barriers and to make sure I am explaining things in a way that they understand. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium Tuba

I have been band director in the public school system for over 20 years and an adjunct professor in college for several years. Since 1993, I have been teaching private lessons to low brass students ranging from grade 5 through college. Students under my director have been successful in District, All-Region, All-Area, All-State and Texas UIL competitions. I have many years working with students from all backgrounds and ability levels. In addition to teaching, I also compose/arrange music with several compositions being used for the Texas All-State Jazz auditions. Read More