Students of the studio range in age and in background. Everyone has a healthy curiosity about how to play, and they commit to practicing and doing their very best, on a daily basis! Because I teach different styles of music different melodies can be heard floating in the air at Play Parties and in private lessons. Nearly everyone has studied or is studying Suzuki Method repetoire as classical training is primary in my work with students. Good classical training can also be the prerequisite for playing other styles competently such as fiddle, folk, sacred, jazz and popular music.
I ask each student to come to their lesson with a teachable attitude. I ask students to let me know how they're doing this week, to describe any problems they may be having and to simply always give their best. Children or tots ranging in age under 5 need to have their parents or parent present at their lessons. Parents are asked to be a listeners or silent partners with the teacher, and I can instruct them in the methods of playing their instrument as well as their child. At home, with very young students, the parent can "practice along with their child" at times, and try to repeat back to their child the instructions which the teacher has given them. It is a unique role that I ask the parent to play. Some parents are motivated to learn to play themselves. They may learn to play well themselves! But that is not the primary goal of taking part in their child's lessons. The primary goal is to support and inspire their child, offer them the "comfort" of learning along with them. During lessons, the parent can also have the opportunity to try a technique the child is working on. Everyone involved will be learning more about music, the instrument and enhancing their bonds. Or he or she may be asked to take notes during lessons which can be shared with the child if they need them.
My students range in age from about 3 1/2 to 87, I work with complete beginners, intermediates and advanced (college-entry level) who have played for over five years, or who are working on their professional playing skills! I love the variety of people whom I've met and have worked with.
To schedule a private consultation please contact my studio at (909) 790-1613 business phone or dial (909) 528-7262 my cell phone.
As always please leave a message with times to call you back if I am unavailable. Thank you!
