Music Lessons in Surprise, AZ

Instruments: Guitar

I taught at Lockport Music Center under Ralph Fava, who was an advocate of the Berkley teaching method. I also have taught private lessons for 7 plus years. I have played in Progressive rock bands in Buffalo N.Y. such as Paradyme and Weaponex. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Banjo Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am kind, patient and knowledgable . I have over 30 years of experience with youth through seniors and love every minute of sharing music with my students. Music theory, chord building, note reading,rhythm studies and improvisation skills are part of every lesson. Even though I specialize in Classical Guitar I enjoy teaching pop, folk, jazz, blues, country and more. I do teach note reading but I also encourage the use of tab as a tool for learning. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar Banjo Euphonium Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

As I first approach a new student, my first question to them is "why drums?". From that response I have a better idea of where this student is most comfortable for playing. Their genre of musical listening is a strong consideration of the styles they would enjoy learning. By finding their strong points of playing building an individual curriculum for that student gives them a better opportunity to become a player to the best of their abilities. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My approach to teaching is fun and nurturing,making sure students have a clear understanding of the fundamental principles of music,while encouraging individual student's own creativity and aural skills.I always inspire students to enjoy music and their musical instrument whilst developing their discipline to build self-esteem and help them grow socially and academically. During my lessons students work on their sight reading,technique,ear training and,of course I come up with fun musical games for younger beginners. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Cello Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Double Bass Music Keyboard Djembe

Throughout the 8 12 years that I have been teaching I have been learning a lot about many different methods and teaching styles. I always had thought that what I was being taught could have been taught in a more natural and more efficient way. I have borrowed many of my ideas from some of the greatest teachers in history and believe the most in the bel canto method created but David Jacobsen who is an alumni of the Curtis Institute of Music, the greatest school of music in the world. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Faber - John Thompson - Bastien - Alfred - Hal Leonard etc Shirley tries to fit the student to the method. Every method doesn't work for every one. Age and experience and ability all play important factors into the method that is used for you or your child personally. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I tend to be a teacher on a stricter side as that is how my music teachers were back in Europe. I find this style to be working with my students as they do accomplish their goals and win various competitions. Depending on the age and students goals (professional musician or just playing for fun) I adjust my style accordingly. Even if the student only wants to play for their own enjoyment I still find a way to make the material challenging for them to improve their skills, technique, musicianship, and thus make it worth their while. Read More