Music Lessons in Thorntown, IN

Instruments: Saxophone

With younger beginning saxophone students I start them with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements book 1. This Provides a great foundation for students to start on and benefits in the long run. For mid range skill level students we start with (depending upon skill) the Rubank beginning or intermediate method book. This provides a lot of melodic material for them to grow as a musician. Lastly, for the advanced we would start with Ferling Etudes which really challenge the student at a higher level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe

My main music philosophy is to teach sound before sight: teach students to hear the music, and then read the notation. For beginners, I want them to become well acquainted with their instrument so I begin with the basic fundamentals, and then teach some traditional tunes before moving on to reading music. For students who can already read music, I like to work on sight-reading as well as finding solo repertoire that can be performed at recitals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music Keyboard

I like to begin all my students on a combination of technical studies and enjoyable/familiar melodies. This will help them learn the fundamentals in a rewarding way, because as they progress they will continue to learn new songs week after week. This is much more rewarding than checking of series of technical exercises. Additionally it is important to have both small goals to achieve each week and large goals to achieve over a number of months, so my students can be aware and proud of their progress over time. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

My teaching style is laid back and fun, as well as motivating and challenging. I think it's important for each lesson to be fun because it fosters positive growth and a love for music. It is also important to me that students take their learning seriously. I expect my students to practice on their own time in order to reach their own goals. Without practice and perseverance, it is difficult to become skilled at your instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I started playing guitar at age 8. In my formative years I studied with various instructors around central Indianapolis until mid year of '85. Upon this time I studied a full year with James Lee Thorpe whom eventually played, toured recorded with Sweet F.A. They released albums with MCA Chrysalis Records. I began composing my own riffs, melodies and solo work at age 15 also. I studied Music Theory my Junior year at Ben Davis High School. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet

Every lesson I give is different, depending on how the student learns and how they’re motivated. My teaching style is energetic and positive, yet with realistically high standards. I truthfully love giving lessons, and students sense this. Positive feedback is always given before negative. I help students set specific, attainable goals so they can progress at their own pace. Also, I find out what other interests/hobbies the student has so I can make interdisciplinary musical connections. Read More