Voice Lessons in Washougal, WA

Instruments: Piano Voice

I am a believer of structure AND fun. I typically start students with basic technical work, combined with creative games to keep the skills relevant and interesting. Then I introduce more complicated process and ideas into the mix, while allowing the students to find out their own voices. I can't prescribe one way of teaching to differnet people, therefore I won't until I get to meet that student! :) An avid lover of dance and yoga, I incorporate lots of movement games, body work, and breathing exercises in my lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

I approach each student based on his or her background and what he or she needs from me. It is important to adequately instruct the student and make sure he or she is properly disciplined, but one cannot be too involved in the student's playing. One has to learn to let the students learn to be independent and properly pick up on the necessary techniques and methods on their own. Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone Clarinet

I like to use a wide variety of materials, from classical to jazz music.  CLARINET: For clarinet students, I use "standard" conservatory etude and scale books (such as the Rose Studies and Behrmann Studies).  I also use the Jamey Abersold Jazz Methods, which feature CD 'play-a-long' recordings of jazz music.  I also have my students perform a wide range of solo music, from 'standards' like the Mozart Clarinet Concerto to 20th century repertoire by composers like Bernstein, Copland and others.  I think it is important for students to be able to play jazz and improvise, so I teach them about Blues and how to play jazz, as well as classical music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

As far as methods, I do not believe that there is one system that will work for every student, and so I try to find the right combination for each individual.  For piano students I begin with a combination of Alfred and Faber method books, and also teach different scales for technique.  For voice students I try to pick a combination of vocal exercises, classical music and contemporary music based on the student’s unique voice.  Students learn best from music they are passionate about.  What is most important is finding the right songs for each person. Read More

Instruments: Voice Flute

 Encouraging regular practice is one of the key components I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the strudent progress and gain a passion for the instrument.  If a student isn't having fun in their lessons, then I'm not doing my job!  My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own material.  I look forward to working with all new students! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

As a 9th grader, I participated in The Bronx Borough Wide Band and played clarinet on the stage of Carnegie Hall. Later, in college, I sang in a classical chorus on the stage of Kleinhan's in Buffalo, NY with The Buffalo Philharmonic. I studiedbassoon withFrank Ruggieri of The New York Philharmonic as well. In rock, I sang with many bands and some famous artists. Also, played piano in restaurants, etc.One of my bands later performed at The Capital Theatre in Port Chester, New York as an opening act for other famous artists.Very exciting!! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For kids I find that having a large quantity of music to learn at each level gives more variety and sense of achievement, so I usually recommend beginning students have multiple books to aid in learning. For example a young piano student will study from lesson, theory, performance, and technique books each week. This yields a well-rounded student who is proud of their achievements and eager to move forward. For adults I recommend a lesson/theory combination book at least to help with reading music. Read More