Music Lessons in Pontiac, MI

Instruments: Piano Oboe Bassoon

I have always had an eclectic love for all things music, and enthusiastically share it with anyone who will have me! There was a piano in my house growing up and I couldn't stay away. In school, I studied oboe and bassoon. Eventually I just explored any instrument that caught my interest- guitar, trumpet, ocarinas, panflutes, etc. I spent a lot of time doing musical theatre, and studied voice for a time as well. Read More

Instruments: Flute

My teaching philosophy closely aligns with my research experiences as well as my own professional experience as a performer and pedagogue. I focus on regular performance and exposure to a wide range of topics, repertoire and ideas, allowing for intersection with other disciplines. Influence and inspiration can come from unexpected sources, and I foster that potential in my students. My lessons include discussions of style as well as body awareness while playing. Read More

Instruments: Flute

For beginning students (adult and children) I like to be sure that their knowledge about fundamentals is solid. I believe ear training is paramount. Not everyone can sing, but secure pitch discrimination can help all musicians (even percussionists). I encourage all students to participate in ensembles (band, choral also). Knowledge of phrasing is also important to aspiring musicians. Students need support from listening to others play (live performances, radio,and recordings). Read More

Instruments: Voice Bass Guitar Double Bass

I hated school when I was younger. I will never let my lessons feel like school. We work at each individual students pace. Once warm-ups and whatever key technique we are talking about that day are covered the lesson turns more into an educationally structured band practice. My students know they can let go and just sing. If something needs to be worked on, we work on it, and I will give notes and how to fix things throughout. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

For about a year I have taught the students (from the ages of 10-50) trumpet and piano at the Oxford School of music. Ive got song with the students, but still maintained the get through the lessons. I tried my best teaching them what I know about the trumpet, even though I mostly taught the piano (with the best of my knowledge). There was one time that I remember before the pandemic occurred, on October, I gave a trumpet sectional to the Oxford Jazz band teaching them the fundamentals of the blues and identifying the melody, rhythm, and harmony (form for which to improvise on). Read More

Instruments: Drums

I emphasize, above all, practice. If a student doesn't practice daily, then they aren't going to improve at their full potentail rate. I would never "push" a student, but I do encourage students to strive for their best. I know when I need to adapt the situation to fit a student's specific needs. If a student isn't getting something, I know exactly how to back up, break it down, and explain it in a way that they will understand. Read More