Piano Lessons in Dripping Springs, TX

Instruments: Piano

Since I specialize in teaching first time learners, I allow as much time needed to master fundamentals before advancement to anything else. It is key to build a strong foundation, this upholds most importance to me. Setting realistic goals for students and milestones will be made to set them up for success in the future. Incentives/awards will be gifted upon reaching certain milestones catered to the appropriate age. Learning is fun and should be approached in that way! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I am a University of North Texas graduate. I studied with Jim Riggs and Dr. Eric Nestler and played in the top lab bands and classical ensembles while attending school. I later moved to NYC where I started my professional playing career. I lived there for 14 years playing with several music ensembles and studied with Bill Blount on clarinet and Lorrie Glaze on piano. I played on Broadway musicals like Avenue Q and Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Bass Guitar

I am a three-time Grammy nominated multi-instrumentalist, composer, and teacher. I am proficient on saxophone, clarinet, flute, upright bass, electric bass, and piano. In 2006, I graduated with a degree in Jazz Composition with an emphasis in Saxophone Performance from the University of Texas at Austin. For some time in the mid-2000's, my wife and I had our own big band in Central Texas that played our original compositions exclusively.In 2015, our music was the centerpiece of a Hollywood screenplay with directorial consideration by Clint Eastwood and others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I always begin with an assessment lesson during which the student and I can become acquainted and I can learn the students ambitions, levels of development, and personal style. For voice students Ibegin with basic vocal technique, including the study of breathing, posture, voice placement, diction, and English and Italian pronunciation for singing. After assessment, I will parallel technical study with the study of period repertoire, genre styles, and stage presence. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

For beginning students, I typically start with simple traditional songs that they know. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For advanced beginners to intermediate-level students, I try to find out what interests the student may have, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun—no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Drums

The following are books that I start my lessons with. In addition, I supplement with materials that my students are interested in learning. If there is a particular song or style that they would like to learn(and is reasonably within their ability level or I am able to modify), I work to teach it to them. Drums: ***The book chosen depends on a student's level and personal goals, but these are great books to start with: Drumset For Preschoolers by Andy Ziker(for students ages 2-6, or students that would benefit from a color-coded system initially) The Drumset Musician By Rod Morgenstein and Rick Mattingly(great for beginning drum beats!) Alfred's Drum Method(for learning rhythms and rudiments) A Fresh Approach to the Drumset by Mark Wessels with Stanton Moore(teaches an intro to a variety of styles, including rock, samba, jazz, etc.) Piano: Alfred's All-in-One Course This book has simple, child-centered lessons that are reasonably paced, teaches beginning music theory, and allows students the opportunity to write. Read More