Voice Lessons in Matthews Beach, WA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Trombone Bass Guitar Ukulele Recorder Orchestral Percussion Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The dedication it takes to learn an instrument can help develop skills values that will benefit the student throughout life, regardless of profession. Therefore, I believe that the process of learning music is more important than any particular performance that we work toward, so I take a pragmatic approach to instruction. Of course, we look forward to recitals and concerts, because they give our rehearsals direction, but it should also be emphasized that our most rewarding musical experiences may happen in lessons or private practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

I've been teaching music, in some capacity, since I was 17 and captain of my highschool's drumline. In college I taught drumset lessons to students of all ages and in graduate school I taught a music theory course for 5 semesters as well as classical percussion to 6th - 8th graders. Getting to know my students, what they like and don't like, what they read and listen to, is one of my favorite things and I think it really helps engender a life long passion for music when a teacher takes a personal interest in the students lives. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Trumpet Harmonica Ukulele Recorder Acoustic Guitar

When working with younger children, I use the Children's progressive method for guitar and for the older students I use the Hal Leonard guitar method books 1, 2 and 3. As my students progress, I supplement the lesson with songs that my students enjoy and want to learn. I also focus on ear training to help students musically hear what they are playing. Whether it's voice, guitar, ukulele, trumpet or recorder, hearing the music inside and being able to internalize the music is very important to becoming a well rounded musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Synthesizer Music Keyboard

When I teach teenagers or adults I usually start with Alred’s Basic Adult Piano Course Book, as well as a music theory book that is suited to the student. I like Alfred’s series for the young beginner as well, but have also used the Bastien series. For voice students I use a warm up book and a sight singing book. My students keep a music notebook of the week’s assignments in which I also make music theory notes and explanations. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning students, we start with simple scales, fingering patterns, short melodies, and based on that student’s needs and learning style, I decide which lesson plan to use (Suzuki, Hal Leonard, etc.). I use Tonal Harmony textbook excerpts to help with advanced theory lessons. More advanced singers receive more training in classical and musical theater technique. My philosophy is that every singer should be trained classically first. Early art songs and arias really help students focus on breath control, vowel shape, using their passagio, and expressive singing. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I usually find it is in the best interest of myself and my student to begin with familiar repertoire and then to expand as we become comfortable and adventurous. A lesson might include any of the following: Warm-ups/breath work/agility Vocal improvisation via line, phrasing, syllables, dynamics etc. Ear-training/sight-reading using common modes/scales/chord progressions/solfege/interval recognition Basic piano grips for practice accompaniment Performance etiquette education: calling tunes, counting off, knowing a form etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

Helping my students develop healthy physical and emotional practice habits, whether on piano or in singing, is of utmost importance to me. I encourage students to let me know which pieces they especially enjoy learning. I find that in many cases, even young beginners gravitate towards the classics and well-composed music. As a female composer, I am passionate about incorporating improvising and composing into my teaching, not only because it accelerates musical fluency and sensitivity, but because many individuals with innate creative talent do not explore this area because they don't think they are capable of creating music themselves. Read More