Music Lessons in South Park, PA

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

No matter the student's particular interests, there are a few things that are fundamental to all drummers and percussionists. We will start with the most basic techniques for producing a note: grips and stroke types. I take care to make sure the student is aware of physical tendencies that will inhibit their motion, and I keep these bad habits in check. We move on to focus on reading rhythms and subdividing a pulse. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Flute Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar

In the first lesson, I find out what my students' goals and interests are, whether it be learning music for fun, working toward a performance, brushing up on technique, etc. Once we have established a clear goal, I work together with my students to devise a plan for achieving said goal. For example, if a student wants to take voice lessons for fun, we start each lesson with several different vocal exercises for warming up the voice and exploring technique. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For classical studies, there are some standard saxophone repertoire books I like to go to. For brand new students, I use Essential Elements books, for intermediate students I use Rubank method books, and for advanced students I use the Ferling etude book. For jazz studies, I begin students with Lenny Neihaus' Jazz Conception for Saxophone, which lays a great foundation for jazz and swing playing. After this, I do a lot of ear training and memorization exercises for tunes, and talk about chord-scale theory. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I've been teaching students saxophone privately since the age of 16. In between regular gigging and college, I've had the chance to teach a number of students in the past 7 years. One of my main goals in teaching young students is developing a keen sense of how to practice effectively. I like to encourage students to actively seek opportunities to perform and record music wherever they can, so I often times facilitate the process with my own contacts. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Teaching music is always something I've felt passionate about and I would love to share the experience and skills that I've learned over my 14 years of playing drums to anyone else with the same passion. I have a well rounded grasp on music theory as well as an ability to learn music by ear. I also have experience playing a large amount of local shows with my band in the Pittsburgh area and am willing to pass on my knowledge of the industry. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music Keyboard

I am a PA licensed K-12 Music Educator with current clearances. Having taught in various public and private schools for 15+ years, I have a great deal of experience working with students of all ages and at all levels of knowledge and skill. I have taught students in band, orchestra, music technology, general music, and AP music theory. My primary instrument is the saxophone, which I have played for 35 years. In addition to full-time teaching, I have taught students privately since the age of 15. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Considering my background, most students who want to study with me expect and want a serious, structured approach. In most cases, especially with beginning level students, I recommend using a method book with clearly defined progressive assignments, eventually supplementing by applying learned skills to whatever musical styles the student is interested in. More advanced students might need an explanation of theoretical concepts and applications, or technical studies. If they plan to be long term students, we might also aim to patch up educational gaps , such as reading skill, or technical problems such as proper hand positions along the way. Read More