Music Lessons in Utica, NE

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music

My general approach to teaching is designed to help students develop their musical independence. I give students a certain level of information, and then lead them down the implications of what I have told them. While memorization is important, rote memorization without process or thought is not the most effective way to encode information or muscle memory into long term memory. The method I employ is meant to help with that. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

My teaching dates back to my high school years in which I instructed younger students in middle school band as an assistant to the director. I have performed in all kinds of groups including jazz bands, wind ensembles, latin groups, and even choirs. I grew up in Cozad, Nebraska which is a small town, but I was influenced by so many kinds of music given this age of technology. With my versatile background I think I can really guide a student in their growth and development as a musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone Keyboard

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing real life results from my students. Setting concrete goals is very important for me and my students, weather that be to get into all-state or to be able to play a scale at a certain bpm. First and foremost, I hope to cultivate passion in my students. I believe that when a student is passionate they can learn to teach themselves and my job is to provide that student with as many different tools as possible. Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Tuba

I grew up with a Pianist and Music Theory Professor as a mother; I learned to read music at the same time as I learned to read English. Music has never lost that early childhood sense of wonder for me, and so it's my primary goal to share that with others. More importantly, I want to help people of all ages develop their own musical voice and directive. So my teaching style is a combination of 2 things: Teaching a student how to practice (that is, improve their fundamental skill set towards mastery of an instrument) their instrument, and helping the student develop their musical identity and interests. Read More

Instruments: Drums

For beginning and intermediate students, I offer my own rudiment book to start learning on a practice pad or snare drum. For learning drum set, I use a variety of books and resources. I will meet and discuss these options with each student to find the right book for them. For more advanced students, I have them transcribe entire songs from bands they enjoy. I create Spotify playlists for students so they can easily access a variety of styles of music. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I do my best to meet a student where they are, find out their interests and what practice routine their schedules allow for, and then go from there to create a custom plan for them. Regardless of their level and goals, however, students are always reminded that scales and practice are some of the best tools for success. A strong emphasis is placed on honing listening skills, as well, as this benefits students in both their ensemble and solo playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Essentials Element Piano Theory. I like to separate practical and theory in different sessions so that they are familiar and comfortable with reading the notes while playing. I would also start with some fun and interesting melodies to get the kids engaged. When it comes to learning theories, I would use fun and creative symbols that associates symbols in music to get the student to remember them better. Read More