Music Lessons in West Sunbury, PA

Instruments: Piano Organ

I've taught public school elementary band for 30 years, have been a church organist for 70 years, and taught piano and organ for 57 years. I accompanied church and school choirs and orchestra through high school and on into college and then directed such groups; so I know what skills are needed to perform and what it feels like to be put in such a position. Since I've been teaching so long, I can anticipate where in the assignment, the student is likely to be challenged. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I love to teach! I believe my Grandmother's pedagogical influence has had deep impact on my musical journey. The art of teaching is a challenge which I enjoy very much. I began to teach privately as a teenager and have continued to do so both as a private instructor and as a faculty member of several music schools. I also had the privilege of directing a string chamber orchestra! I like to provide the opportunity for students to perform both as solo players and in ensemble groups via private recitals and/or competitions. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I encourage progress. I love to see students become stronger and more confident musicians. I like to get students as much into "the real world" as possible, so I push for getting students performing as much as they are learning. I separate practice from performance, with an understanding that how a student sheds will be the core of what is possible in a performance setting.  Read More

Instruments: Piano

Every student learns differently, and I believe that it's important not to rush their development. Because playing music gets increasingly complicated, it's important that students are comfortable with their current skill level so that they can realistically challenge themselves to attempt the next one. This enables them to find their own strength and encourages autonomy in their creative experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

My teaching experience dates back to my days as a vocal performance major at West Virginia University, where I began teaching private lessons and group lessons to members of my church music ministry. One particular joy that I take from teaching private lessons is seeing students who want to sing but struggle with issues of confidence have a breakthrough where they take a risk in a performance and achieve something they never thought they could do before! Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

I can teach beginners out of any books they might already own, but if starting lessons with me, the books I have available to send to my beginners are Essential Elements and Standard of Excellence. I have additional materials, like the LaFosse, for beginners who have a higher starting range than the majority. I write out personalized daily routines for all my beginners. For high school students, I help the student develop a daily routine which incorporates exercises from the Schlossberg warmups, Colin's Advanced Lip Flexibilities, Vernon's The Singing Approach, the Arban method, and sometimes others. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My teaching style is flexible and tailored to fit each student's unique abilities to help them achieve their fullest potential. By creating a positive and supportive learning environment, students are able to freely express themselves artistically, and learn to face challenges in order to acheive their goals. Lessons are custom made to go at the student's pace, and pieces are chosen based on the particular student's personality and interests. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in studio recitals several times a year, where they are able to socialize with other pianists and show off their new skills. Read More