Piano Lessons in Happy Valley, OR

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Ukulele Recorder

My teaching approach is tailored to the interests and goals of each student, but always includes fundamentals such as scales, strength-building exercises, rudiments of theory, and ear training. Some of the method books I've used include the Faber "Piano Adventures" series, Alfred and Bastien series, and Hanon's The Virtuoso Pianist, among others. I always supplement these materials with arrangements and transcriptions of popular songs and classical pieces, along with original exercises designed to teach specific styles and techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Conga Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I am a driven and passionate instructor who focuses on students' artistic and personal growth as musicians. I began my musical journey as a singer, moving towards piano and guitar throughout my formative years. In high school, I performed as a choral singer, musical theatre artist, and as a pianist for both jazz groups and worship settings. While an undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, I studied tenor voice with renowned operatist John De Haan and piano performance with Jamaican pianist Paul Shaw. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I will always prefer to have hour-long lessons with my students. I feel this length of time gives both the student and the teacher the best chance of having a successful lesson each time they meet. Some may say its a high bar to meet for every lesson, every week, but I accept nothing less from myself and hold high expectations for my students in the hopes they meet them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I am passionate about music and singing. I love to perform and I love to share my passion for music through teaching. I graduated from Portland State University with a Master's in Vocal Performance.I am a student of reknowned baritone Richard Zeller. He is a valuable resource to me for my own singing, as well as a source of teaching advice.I am most experienced with classical repertoire, including songs in German, French, English, and Italian, but I also teach some musical theatre. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

For beginning students in piano, I like to use either the Alfred Reed books or the Piano Adventure method books. It really depends on which the student understands the best! Both offer a variety of explanations on musical elements and topics, while also offering a variety of pieces to play. Once certain topics and musical elements are covered, I like to have the student pick a solo piece from several that I will have ready, which will also reflect the new musical elements that were covered. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I have been teaching lessons since my undergraduate days and have taught private lessons on and off since then. I've spent time in the elementary music classroom as well as the middle and high school music classrooms. I have teaching experience in the areas of voice, choir, percussion, show choir, guitar, piano, music history, and musical theatre history. I've also spent time directing and choreographing various musicals and choral concerts. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Most lessons involve sight-reading, theory, and repertoire. I try to find a balance between introducing new music and reviewing older pieces. I am not a task master, but I do love to give positive reinforcement and praise for quality work and effort. I encourage my students to give me honest feedback on the material that they are working on. I will often ask them if they like the music they are playing or if they have any specific requests. Read More