Piano Lessons in Shawnee, KS

Instruments: Piano Voice

My biggest focus with my students is building confidence! I strive to always be encouraging. I believe that we are capable of accomplishing much more when we believe that we can do it! One of the most important building blocks of confidence is consistent practice. I will make sure my students leave their lessons with a plan for the coming week’s practice. I will do my best to make sure this practice is both purposeful and enjoyable. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

For my methods, it depends on the age of the student and what their ability level is. For a young student, typically children, I would have to cover the fundamentals of music while applying it to piano or flute to help them learn the notes, clefs, time signatures, key signatures, etc. For my lesson plans, it changes from student to student as each student is different and has different needs they need to focus on to better their musical experience. 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

Instruments: Piano

Effective teaching caters to each student's unique needs and learning styles. This is why although I prefer the Music Tree series of method books, I'm also flexible and observant to determine the best possible approach on a student-by-student basis. My goal is to instill a genuine, passion for music in my students, and also to help develop well-rounded musicians. Whether you want to play Mozart, write songs, or play in a jazz band, I want to give you the tools you need to make the most of that situation. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Clarinet

I have been teaching lessons since High School. Back then, I mostly taught beginner students on the Piano. Since College, I have expanded my teaching repertoir to include Piano, Organ, Violin, and Viola. For the past 7 years, I have been teaching and instructing my students on the best practices as blossoming musicians. Nothing can make you a better musician than practice and consistency. No matter what genre of music you are interested in, you must practice.There will always be times were you have toforce yourself to practice (because it won't always be fun), but the gains are never dull.It has been my experience that those students who apply themselves diligently, love to play the songs that they have mastered over and over again. 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