I believe musical
instruction is beneficial to everyone, from the specially gifted to the "musically
challenged". Music has proven beneficial to brain development in the
very young, higher test scores in school-age children, and is socially rewarding
to all. Learning an instrument (the voice is an instrument, too!) gives a
sense of accomplishment and teaches self-discipline and perseverance. Because
I believe this, students of all abilities are welcome in my studio. Everyone
goes at their own pace.
Performance is an important part of music instruction, so twice a year (December
and June) I host a recital for my students. Students begin working on a recital
piece a few months in advance, and every effort is made to choose a piece
that is challenging (but not too challenging) and enjoyable for both student
and audience.
PIANO
For beginning pianists, I generally use the Faber method. This method teaches
music theory, piano technique, and sight reading. As students approach intermediate
level, classical repertoire is introduced along with continued music theory
instruction and piano technique utilizing Hannon exercises. If students are
interested in accompanying a choir, playing on a church worship team, playing
keyboard in a band, etc., I love helping with that, too!
VOICE
All good vocalists need to know how to read music, so for students who don't
already come to voice lessons with this ability, basic note-reading is included
in the lesson. Beginners will focus on pitch, proper warm-up, vowel production,
diction, tone, and showmanship. As students advance they will be exposed to
some classical repertoire, Italian, German, and French diction, and finer
aspects of vocal control. If students want to sing in church, audition for
a solo, audition for a school chorus, etc, I am more than happy to help with
that also.