Music Lessons in Smithville, MO

Instruments: Cello

I want to avoid overwhelming you with too many new skills at once. Once basic instrument skills are solid, we shift our focus to note reading. For this, I usually use the *Essential Elements* book, mastering notes on one string at a time, starting with the D and A strings. We first focus on pitch, followed by rhythm notation. For Intermediate Students The focus shifts more toward tone quality and advanced techniques such as shifting, vibrato, improving intonation, different articulations, bow strokes, and dynamics. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium

I always go at the pace a student can handle.  I do try to challenge them but also know that everybody learns differently and at different rates.  I am very flexible.  I hope to motivate the student to trying their best and put their best efforts!  It is very rewarding when a student develops a passion for music!  My goals are always to motivate my students to be the best they can. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin

For beginning students, children and adults, I start out with my own material that I have created over the past five years. I use it to start technique, note reading, and rhythm. Once the student completes the material, I move them to Suzuki books, etudes, and other pieces. I like to get student input when choosing music. I believe that the student will be more engaged in the lessons and practice when they are playing something that they enjoy. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I believe each student has unique gifts. I love watching my students thrive by encouraging self-exploration as we learn about music. If a student loves playing by ear, we seek knowledge of composition more, if they are inspired to play Star Wars, we add that to the repertoire. If a good solid foundation is built through the sequential lesson books along with motivating material, retention is higher. Encouragement of progression at his or her own pace by understanding each students gifts, along with realistic goals and practice, aids in well rounded musicians. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

I'm a dedicated music industry nerd! I am young and have just recently graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, majoring in Music Business/Management and minoring in Trumpet Performance. I have performed in a wide variety of genres throughout my career including; classical, jazz, funk, blues, rock, RB, hip-hop, rap, pop, edm, electronic.... I love it all! Some highlight performances include an annual charity event hosted by the Boston Pops, monthly shows at the Berklee Performance Center and Wally's Jazz Club. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

Beginning students will most likely be playing from whatever band book their school uses. If the student is not in middle school yet, then they will most likely start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. As students progress, more material will be added later. For intermediate students, I would begin to add solo repertoire and would most likely also add the Clarke Characteristic Studies. With my more advanced students there is more variation as these are typically the students that have all district, solo contests, and college auditions to prepare for. Read More

Instruments: Piano

In my studio, I listen to the work that the student prepares for the lesson and assist with technical, performance, and musical aspects. We also listen to new music and discuss various aspects of the development of music.For younger students, I have computer based learn to help reinforce fundamentals, and also games that can help keep the learning an exciting and fun-filled experience. For my adults with goals in classical music, I offer in-class study of theory, repertoire, and history. Read More