Piano Lessons in Shawnee, KS

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

If you play more than one instrument, how did you decide to start playing the second? (Or 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc)!
After playing guitar for about 5 years, I realized that my creativity was being limited by my ability to play only one instrument. I wanted to compose songs using multiple instruments as tools. I picked up piano next, and that changed everything. I loved it! From then on I wanted to learn as much as I could about the instruments that compose the core of all music - guitar, bass, drums, and piano.

What is your favorite style/genre of music to play and why?
I have several favorite styles of music. I love the power and aggression of rock, metal, and rap music. I also love the expression, tonality and emotion in blues, indie and pop music. It's a wide spectrum!

What does a normal practice session look like for you?
A normal CH practice session includes a healthy mix of fun and technique. We will go over exercises and other formal methods of practice first, then incorporate those methods into jam sessions where we just play music, express ourselves and have fun. I have found this to be the most effective way to teach music because it is the way that music is meant to be experienced.

What do you think is the hardest thing to master on your instrument?
Technique and rhythm. Learning these traits takes more than simple exercises and practice methods. You need both experience and comfortability with your instrument, which only comes through playing - a lot!

Do you use specific teaching methods or books? (Ex: Alfred, Bastion, Suzuki, Hal Leonard) Why did you choose them if you did?
I swear by two books when I compose my curriculum - "The Music Lesson" by Victor Wooten and "The Genius In All Of Us" by David Shenk. Both of these books convey important information regarding our ability to learn and process music, how important it is to feel the music rather than just practicing it, and why there is a great musician in all of us.

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
I am the most proud of learning how to play multiple instruments and completing the music program at Kennesaw State University. Being a multi-instrumentalist has greatly expanded my knowledge of music and the things that I can create. The music program at KSU helped mold me into the driven and professional musician that I am today.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
I wouldn't say I chose my first instrument; I'd say my first instrument chose me. My dad played guitar and wanted me to learn too, so he bought me one when I was young and encouraged me to practice. Had he not taken that initiative, I might have went for another instrument, or not gotten into music at all; but as soon as I felt that guitar in my hands, I knew that I was meant to be a musician. When you know, you just know!

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
I had several teachers that inspired me to become a musician. My dad was the first person to put a guitar in my hands. He wanted me to learn how to express myself creatively. My first music teacher also inspired me greatly. He taught me that learning music isn't about numbers and chord progressions, it's about expressing yourself and having fun. That philosophy has molded me into the music loving art creator that I am today!

When will I start to see results?
The time that it takes to see results will vary, and that's okay! You should focus more on giving your child or yourself the time to learn the right way, while having fun. Music is not meant to be a chore. It is art and art is all about individualistic expression! So take your time on your journey. If you're practicing, you're going to see results!

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
If your child is old enough to read and write, your child might be ready for lessons! Being able to read and write generally ensures that your child will be able to understand some of the more complex aspects of music. There are exceptions, of course. For example, if your child can read and write but shows no interest in music whatsoever, it might be a good idea to wait until they are older.

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
Here's a secret key to effective practice - taking breaks. Try practicing your instrument for 30 minutes, then taking a 10 minute break to relax and unwind. Taking breaks increases the likelihood that the information will stick, and prevents you from getting burned out!

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