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Bachelor's Degree in Recording Industry Management, Middle Tennessee State University; 1989 Endorsement in Music Education, Middle Tennessee State University; 2009
2009 Performed at Carnegie Hall with the Middle Tennessee State University Women’s Chorale
2000 Artist of the Year; Aarrow Records Nashville
I started my professional music career in 1983 when I joined an all-girls band. After 3 years traveling and recording with the band I struck out on my own and did a one woman show for 17 years. In 1993 I moved to Branson, MO and performed in my own show on the Lake Queen Riverboat for five years. In 1997 I moved back to my hometown of Nashville, TN and focused on my private music teaching and songwriting. I have recorded three albums in three formats (LP, Cassette, CD). I currently teach music in the public school system and teach private lessons in guitar and voice. I have a bachelor’s degree in Recording Industry Management and my endorsement in Music Education. I teach small groups as well and have recently begun online lessons.
I have eleven years of experience teaching music in the public school system. I have over 25 years of experience teaching private music lessons to students ranging in age from 5-72. I love teaching children and adults and get great satisfaction in seeing their growth not only on their instrument but branching out into other musical adventures as well. I teach in my home studio, student's homes or recently have started online lesson. My goal is to cultivate a love and passion for music in every student!
For all students I start with the basic fundamentals. For younger students I try to find out where they are in their music classes at school and incorporate as much of that curriculum into my instruction as possible. For older or more advanced students I find out what type of music they are interested in learning and gear my instruction towards their interests. I have several instructional books series that I work from, including Hal Leonard, Mel Bay and my own packet/study guides that I have put together that I present to my students as they progress.
Every student is different, but all students need to be motivated and inspired. I try to find the right “buttons” for each individual to help them become excited about learning their instrument. I approach my teaching with enthusiasm, patience and realistic but high expectations. I want my students to feel comfortable and safe and be able to make mistakes without fear or embarrassment. Music is supposed to bring joy, not stress. Some teachers create a stressful environment for their students and I believe that is not the proper way to create a passionate musician. I certainly don’t expect all of my students to become professional musicians, but I do believe that music is something they should be able to enjoy for their entire lives.
Bethany teaches my very young sons piano and she has been very successful in engaging them in lessons that are fun while teaching them music at the same time. My children look forward to seeing her each week.