Music Lessons in Speer, CO

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For my beginning students who are children, I like to start with Alfred's Music books based on the instrument they choose. They are specific, yet easy for kids to follow along with, and encourage practicing by making each song fun. For adults, we journey into what the student is interested in or inspired by, and then I guide my instruction accordingly to keep our lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

When I'm working with beginning students, my defaul method book is Essential Elements. However, if students have another book for a school band class, I am more then happy to work with them to preserve some line of consistency in the students education. As they progress, I look to find more advanced etude and solo books, focusing on music that is of interest to the student. Practicing music should be fun, and I try to make it fun, while maintaining an emphasis on fundamentals and musicianship. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

For beginning students I teach the fundamentals: holding the instrument, explaining how it works, and then how to make a sound. I focus on sound first and foremost, trying to make a pure sound, and then hearing and being able to understand how the instrument works. I don't get into simply reading exercises until the student has a firm grasp and enthusiasm for the instrument. With older students I work with what their goals are; for example if All-State Band is the goal we focus on playing band excerpts and the level of fundamentals needed to get there. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

For beginning piano students, I use the Faber Piano Adventure series. This series is simple, filled with music theory, and keeps the young student motivated. For beginning flute students, I use the Trevor Wye flute instruction books, along with the curriculum that is being taught in the student's band class at school. As students advance, the next level books are taught, along with solo repertoire for recitals and other performances. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

It is important to me that each student learns at their own pace when I teach. I dont want to force things upon students that they arent ready for, or dont want to do. Because of this, most of my curriculum is based around music of the students choosing, so they keep engaged and wanting to keep learning. Through this, I will teach the theory aspect of the music they are learning to help give a better understanding of why things work the way that they do, and the why the way they sound that way. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

I have a little card taped toa bookcase in my living room that says: "Give 'em something they can DO." This means the students needs to be able to put things into action, into motion. Everything will make more sense for you when you physicallyDO it. Then my card says, "Give 'em something theyCAN do." This is an important distinction! When the activities are do-able, from the very beginning, students experience success andtheir confidence begins to grow. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon English Horn

I believe in positive affirmation and goal setting. My goal with all students is that they enjoy learning, become self-motivated to practice, and consider their musical abilities as a gift which they can choose to share with others whenever they feel comfortable to do so. I have experience using a variety of method books and can easily recommend appropriate materials. I also encourage students to share with me and allow me to help them learn their favorite music, as well, even if that involves writing it out with or for them. Read More