Piano Lessons in Grain Valley, MO

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer

I have been fortunate to study under some remarkable professors as well as musicians. There are three individuals in particular that I will never forget. They changed my life. Their determination, work ethic, pure genius and passion for what they do will always stick with me. They raised my bar as a musician and set the bar for my teaching. As a teacher I strive to leave the same imprint on others that they left on me. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Keyboard

For beginner Piano students who are young, I teach either from Hal Leonard's Essential Elements or Faber & Faber. Both are great interactive resources that help guide toward mastery of the basics. I also like to include games using flash cards and note names for my youngest students who learn best through a variety of activities. For those that are past beginner lever, the Faber & Faber series works well to incorporate solo repertoire with technique and theory practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am someone who is passionate about music and loves working with students and seeing that passion grow in them as well. I have been playing the piano for 26 years and have learned many different styles, from classical to jazz to improv playing in different bands across the U.S. I graduated in 2005 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music with a Piano Performance minor. Having the opportunity to travel around the nation to perform has been an incredible experience as a musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

The method book I begin younger students on is Piano Adventures by Faber and Faber. There are 5 Level books to complete. We use the lesson book, as well as the technique book. I also supplement with solo repertoire and various materials. For the older beginner, I use Alfred's Basic Adult All-In-One Course, as well as supplemental solo repertoire. Music theory is essential in my studio, and I use various learning tools to teach theory. iPad apps, worksheets, games and manipulatives are a few examples. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Each of my days begins and ends with music, and I'm always excited to share my passion with anyone. While attending University of Illinois, I was a part of the Illini Mentoring Program for 2 years, where I worked alongside at-risk youth in an after-school volunteer organization to foster one-on-one relationships, promote learning, and have fun with the mentees. I truly loves performing music live for others, and while at U of I was part of various groups through the college such as the UI Latin Jazz Band (led by Tito Carrillo) and the Black Chorus (led by Dr. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Organ Ukulele Recorder Keyboard Djembe

For beginner's, I do typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books. For intermediate, I'll evaluate what materials they've used thus far in their lessons and go from there. If someone is familiar with a set of books in a positive way, there's no reason to change the books they're using. I do believe, however, there is profit in a variety of repertoire, so a diverse lesson is key. I have learned from experience that simply learning one genre (classical, jazz, showtunes) is less desirable than having a familiar ear to multiple styles. Read More