Lessons

What Instruments I teach?

I currently teach the following instruments*

• Guitar
  • Beginner
  • Intermediate
  • Advanced
• String Bass (Electric and plucked upright)
  • Beginner
  • Intermediate and Advanced
• High Brass Instruments ( I can teach low brass as well but I am most proficient in Trumpet, Coronet, and Horns)
  • Beginner
  • Intermediate
• Percussion
  • Pitched
  • Unpitched

*I have, as part of the education of my students taught other instruments other than those on the list. those include: Banjo, Mandolin, Dulcimer, Uke family, and Harmonica, but I do not have a formal teaching program for these instruments. If you do not see the instrument that you would like to learn I have many contacts for pretty much any instrument that you want to learn.

What Do I teach?

I have always focused on musical theory and techniques. I firmly believe that if you can play classical you can play anything. I do mix some contemporary music into the lessons, specifically when we focus on a specific technique. I do encourage my students to study other methods and artists to understand how their education in music can be applied to many things, but my primary focus is on classical music.

Guitar Method

I currently use a combination of Suzuki and my own lesson sheets to teach guitar. I expect all my students learn how to read music. I teach standard notation, however I do see the benefit if Tablature as a teaching and technique tool.

Students are responsible for purchasing their Method Books, I do not charge for my lesson sheets. I have books available for purchase at cost for the students. There are a few other books that will need to be purchased as the students progress but I keep the cost under $20 and they can be purchased locally, online, or through me.

Brass and Percussion Methods

Since most of my brass students are between the ages of 8 and 18 I try to use methods that are in use at the local schools. The most common being “The Standards of Excellence” for brass and woodwinds. There are also several etude and practice books that we may use throughout the students progression.

Other Info..

Recitals and Festivals

I do host recitals at least one a year, and believe that it is vital to the growth of a musician. Music is powerful and can effect those that play it every bit as much as those who listen to it. It is animportant step for a musician to learn how to play in front of others. I try to hold a spring and holiday recital. I will usually combine with one or more teachers to reduce the cost of renting the recital hall. Usually the only cost to the student would be the cost of sheet music.

Part of the Suzuki Method is to perform in a graded festival. This is something that I strongly believe in. There are several festivals that students can participate in. Costs vary and I will let you know of them as they come up.

Practice and lesson time

I expect my students to practice between lessons. If practice does not happen during the week, then lesson time becomes very expensive practice sessions. It is a quick way to frustrate a student and cause them to stop playing. I do allow students (through parents if they are minors) to occasionally reach out to me if they are having a difficult time so that I can offer advice. Lessons should be used for learning new techniques and music.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and Fees vary depending on the Level and Instrument. Click on the link below to get more information.