Music lessons for every level.

*Enrollment for new students is currently open.

Guitar.

Weekly one-on-one guitar lessons for steel-string acoustic, classical and electric guitar. Lessons feature instruction in such subjects as note reading, technique, theory, strumming, understanding chords, memorizing songs, etc. Lessons are curriculum based with room for students to choose additional music and specialize in their preferred style.

Children ages 7 and up, teen, adult and senior students welcome. Beginner to advanced. Musical experience preferred but not required.

Ukulele.

Ukulele lessons feature the same format as guitar lessons. Classical and contemporary music, strumming and fingerpicking, theory and technique are standard parts of ukulele lessons. The ukulele carries a certain light hearted, carefree and relaxed aura and many ukulele students want to maintain a laid back approach while still learning and being challenged. My lessons seek to strike the balance between quality instruction and enjoyment.

Due to it’s small size and relative simplicity, I can accept children as young as 5 for ukulele lessons, depending on the temperament of the child.

Theory.

Theory lessons are an indispensable course for any serious music student. With a specific focus on music theory as it relates to the guitar, theory classes are geared towards older students (teen and adult) who have played for several years but wish to gain a better understanding of music theory.

Foundational concepts such as, intervals, harmony, chord theory, scales, keys as well as real world application of music theory are some of the highlights of music theory classes. Lessons are taught with an emphasis on student comprehension and retention (see Excellence below).

Voice.

Voice lessons focus on a foundation of proper technique including breath support, placment, tonal quality and dynamics. Interpretation, phrasing and stage presence are a core of advanced lessons while beginner singing lessons teach students how to become comfortable singing with their natural voice.

Classical technique : modern sound. As a contemporary singer, my lessons are geared towards the modern singer and translate to popular styles such as Pop, Country, Rock, Blues, Folk, Jazz and Musical Theater.

Specialized traing in singing harmony or singing with an instrument also availible.

Piano.

Coming soon, Summer 2024!

My Teaching Philosophy.

 

Excellence.

I believe in excellence. Not only in being an accomplished player myself, but being an excellent instructor. It is not enough to simply explain and demonstrate. True instruction must be done in a way that the student actually understands. The focus of every lesson must be the benefit and growth of that individual student. By striving to provide excellent instruction I enable my students to become excellent lifelong players.

Structure.

Having a plan is the first step toward making every lesson productive and enjoyable for both the student and the teacher. Lessons are structured around a proven curricula of contemporary and classical music with emphasis on improving technique, ear training, music theory, gaining confidence and growing in musicianship.

Enjoyment.

Music is meant to bring us joy and enrich our lives. But the challenge of learning an instrument can be overwhelming and discouraging. I help my students enjoy music lessons by creating a safe space where they feel encouraged, supported and understood. Students learn and practice best when they look forward to their lessons and are excited to learn!

 

Accessibility.

Part of being a good teacher means being accessible and flexible. Though I no longer offer regular virtual lessons for local students (see Excellence ), I strive to be flexible in scheduling. Lessons happen in the midst of regular life and accommodating my students busy schedules has always been a hallmark of my business model.

*Please note: regular virtual lessons are available for non-local students and exceptions for local students can be made on a case-by-case basis.

Trust.

Good communication, consistency, reliability and overall transparency are hallmarks of any great parent/teacher relationship. I always strive to empower parents to be in tune with and active in their child’s learning process. Questions are always welcome! Concerns or ideas of how to help a student get more out of their music lessons are invaluable to me in creating the best learning environment for every student.

Accountability.

Each of us learns at a different pace and has different goals. But setting goals and developing a steady pace are always part of learning well. I help my students develop good practice habits and set goals that both challenge them and encourage them to persevere. Positive encouragement and accountability to yourself and your instructor are at the heart of every great learning process.


Private guitar lessons, voice lessons and ukulele lessons in Gig Harbor, WA.