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Bachelor's Degree in Music Composition / Theory w/ emphasis in Piano
2003-2008 Biola University Music Conservatory Scholarship
As the founder of a music program, I am a passionate and caring instructor who loves working with students of all ages and thrives on making lessons a great experience. Born and raised in San Antonio, I began taking piano lessons at six years old and started composing music at age 12. During high school, I taught piano lessons along with other side music jobs such as piano refinishing and music engraving. I traveled to California for college, where I received a Bachelor of Music Composition degree from Biola University. While in college, I continued engraving, was hired to compose music for musical plays, taught piano privately, and directed the music at my church. After college, I moved back to San Antonio and started a music program that has expanded throughout south Texas. HOST Orchestra offers group ensembles in Orchestra, Band, Strings, Guitar and Choir.
My teaching experience dates back to my high school years, as I have 20 years of teaching private lessons, along with 10 years of band and orchestra teaching. Individually, I have taught piano along with band instruments such as flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, saxophone and percussion. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. I'm always looking to bring on new students of all ages!
During the first lesson, I get to know the student, find out their interests and determine which course will be the best start. The most important thing for all students is to keep the lessons engaging and fun. Piano: For younger beginning students, I typically start with the Alfred Basic Piano Library. Older beginners start with Alfred's All In One Piano Course. For adults, I find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly. Band Instruments (Clarinet, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Percussion) Beginning Students typically start with the Esssential Elements series. As the student progresses, we transition into additional sheet music and theory, while adding improvisation and sight reading.
Music education is essential to lifelong development and enrichment in everyday life. That's why nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs.