Lessons Offered
Music, Piano, Singing
Where are Lessons Offered
In Teacher Studio
In Student Home
About Me
"The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires." -William Arthur Ward
Greetings Future Piano/Vocal Students:
In my younger years I was always inspired to watch pianists and singers of all genres of music. I have played and studied the piano for 23 years, and have taught piano and voice for over 14 years. I have a bachelor of arts degree in jazz piano performance from the University of Louisville, and I am finishing my masters in music education. I am a member of the Music Teachers National Association, Kentucky Music Educators Association, American Choral Directors Association, and I am certified in Zoldan Kodaly pedagogy with Solfa fundamentals.
I toured with the nationally known southern gospel band "The Nelons" in 2000. I have served in many churches as choral and praise and worship director, and I currently play jazz, funk, fusion, private parties, weddings, and recording studio gigs with various professional group throughout greater Louisville. As a choral composer and piano instructor, I teach in-depth music theory and improvisation.
My vision is to inspire my students, both children and adults, to learn music of various genres and styles in fun and exciting ways. My student not only learn to read music, but they learn how to improvise and solo over chord changes and compose their own melodies. From classical to jazz, and pop to rock, my students will learn how to take their musical knowledge and strive for their goals of playing for their own musical enjoyment, and becoming a successful musician.
My Musical Education Background
OBJECTIVE: To teach students the joy of making and learning music with the piano and voice.
EDUCATION:
M.M.E. Aug. 2008 – Present Morehead State University Morehead, KY
• Currently continuing studies in the Masters in Music Education via online courses. I have completed all on campus courses, which include vocal methods and materials, basic conducting, choral conducting, piano tuning, theory, history, and music methods courses.
• GPA – 3.8 / 4.0
B.A. Music – Aug. 2006 University of Louisville Louisville, KY
• Jazz concentration with piano, digital technology and computers and music emphasis
• Communications Minor – Courses Completed – Mass Media & Culture, Intro to Advertising, Intro to Communications, Interpersonal Communication, Speech Communication, Argumentation and Computer Communications, Micro Computer Applications (Web Design, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access & Front Page)
• GPA – 3.5 / 4.0
Genres and Subjects Taught
PIANO / SINGING LESSONS My students and I not only focus on correct hand position, fingering, posture, quality of sound and piano technique, but also listening, development of personal music perception, and “getting the groove.” I also give my students basic knowledge of music theory and music history. All students receive specific instruction on how to practice. For technique and improvisation development my students play scales, chords, and arpeggios. For the development of different piano techniques, they also play music, which include learning how to read and improvise with chord charts. For development of personal music perception, my students play many different kinds of music pieces of their choice and my recommendations. They play jazz standards, classical music, contemporary music and show tunes. To ensure progress I recommend taking an hour lesson per week. Although half hour lessons are available, hour lessons will provide more time for the student to excel faster playing piano.
Lesson Rates
Studio & In-Home Lessons available
Ages / Skill Levels Taught
I accept beginners - advanced students of all ages.
My Certifications and Awards
I obtain certification in the Zoldan Kodaly pedagogy with Solfa fundamentals.
My Musical Influences
Blue Ribbon Teachers
Collegiate Professors
Colleagues and Mentors
Service Area
Student Reviews
Deanna T
Greenville, IN
A wonderful Teacher! He definitely knows his stuff, and has been a help to me. And, he is nice, kind, and patient! :)