Piano Lessons in Ortonville, MI

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Music Keyboard

I am an accomplished music educator and composer skilled in and enthusiastic about teaching music students of all ages. I have a Bachelor's degree in cello performance from Utah State University, where I studied with Anne Francis Bayless of the world-renowned Fry Street Quartet. I also have a Master's degree in composition from Arizona State University, and am currently working toward my Doctorate in composition at the University of Michigan. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Double Bass

I have been teaching students for over 10 years. In addition to piano, guitar, violin, and double bass private lessons, I have also taught group lessons. I taught a group piano lab for 5th graders. I taught group guitar lessons to camp students. I have been a member of two private lessons instutions who help me find private students on all instruments so that I can travel to students homes or have them come to my home studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

For children, I do not use books or complicate bibliography to teach. I encourage children to discover music through their own curiosity. Using historical imagery and references of the natural world that surrounds us, is very effective way to help children understand music. Art contains emotion and intellect, so, my intention is that the kids explore that knowledge in a fun and joyful way. For adults, the teaching process is more focus to expand their abilities. Read More

Instruments: Piano

"To be inspired is great, TO INSPIRE is incredible." I love to inspire children and it gives me a great pleasure when they improve and do well. I started playing piano at a young age. My teacher was a very good pianist but a poor educator. Five years later I  found a new, wonderful teacher who inspired me to learn. I am grateful for her and her passion and I hope to give that knowledge to my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Bass Guitar Double Bass

I believe that in order to effectively teach, one must also do. My extensive performance background allows me to read a student to see what their goals might be and custom fit a curriculum around them. Sometimes a method book is the right way to go. Books such as the Alfred series and Hal Leonard often offer easily attainable goals for younger students. However, it is always important to listen to one's students to find out what music makes them passionate and make sure to weave that into the practice of good technique, and theory. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I listen to the student's music selections. While he/she plays, I observe him/her how this student is adapting to the instrument. After his/her performance, I offer constructive criticism pointing out steps to adapt himself/herself to the instrument. I also encourage and push for attentive listening for tone quality. This is very important no matter the level of students. The way to listen for tone quality is not only seating straight and at the center of the keyboard, but also understand when and how to use the bony part of the fingers(closer to nails) versus the fleshy part of fingers on the opposite side of nails. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Synthesizer Keyboard

As an accomplished self taught pianist and composer I've spent my life experimenting with different methods, material and practice beliefs. I can teach and speak more broadly now about music, not as an elitist activity but as a language vital to humans whether it is "spoken" or heard. I encourage exploration, a firm understanding of fundamentals and full pursuit of whatever goals are set by the student. This understanding has allowed me to produce over 50 projects, 250 string arrangements and write well over 200 songs to date. Read More