…He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.”
I will not lie. Being a “classically” oriented musician can be tough at times. Such carefully crafted music requires incredible effort to recreate, but that effort reaps extraordinarily high rewards, mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. It is totally worth it!
Emotionally, music provides an experience like no other. As a language, it speaks every shade and nuance of human experience far more adequately than mere words.
Spiritually, music can take us on a journey to a higher plane of existence. While many earthly things will eventually pass away, God’s word promises that music making will continue in the hereafter. I believe that is significant!
Not only does it have a beautiful and unique sound, the piano is a superb foundational instrument to learn music. With its extremely wide tonal and dynamic range, it holds its own as a solo instrument but it is also ideal for accompanying and ensemble work. The piano has traditionally functioned as a laboratory for the composer and provides a solid base for those learning music theory.
Because of its importance, many colleges and universities require all music performance majors to demonstrate basic keyboard technique, regardless of their main instrument or voice type. So it is a good idea for any serious music student to start piano lessons early. I have a doctoral degree in piano performance from Indiana University and have many years of experience in teaching piano to all levels of students, both in the classroom and privately.
The organ is truly a phenomenal instrument. Many have labeled it the “king of instruments” for its size, power, and endless timbral possibilities. While the piano is the standard keyboard instrument for learning keyboard technique and other musical skills, the organ comes with its own unique set of performance knowledge and playing techniques. Churches around the United States are in desperate need of organists. Students who have the drive and persistence to learn this instrument can be guaranteed many career opportunities.
Having been a professional organist at several churches and denominations since high school, I have real-world experience playing the organ for a living. I have studied with nationally acclaimed organ teachers and have played organ recitals in several states. I am happy to guide any student interested in studying this magnificent instrument.
Music theory is almost inseparable from music performance. Not only does it encompass the study of music notation directly, it is the study of how we understand music cerebrally and emotionally. Similarly, music history is a study of our roots. It helps us understand how music has evolved over the ages, why works were composed, and why musical styles exist.
Normally, I teach music theory and history in conjunction with keyboard lessons but can teach separate, more focused lessons for those who are interested. Besides teaching privately and in the classroom, I have worked as a teaching assistant in universities, which involved grading student papers and providing coaching. Whether you need tutoring for an entrance exam, or simply want to expand your knowledge of music, I am available to help you.
I love arranging and orchestrating music! It is fun to play around with musical colors and textures involving more than one instrument. I have arranged several works for solo instruments, small ensembles, and orchestras. As a sample of my work , here’s my orchestration of Debussy’s Masques, originally composed for piano:
I offer structured lessons in orchestration for students willing to try their hand at the art. if you wish to commission me for an arrangement/orchestration, please feel free to contact me.
My one goal for music students is to help them achieve their own goals. This could be anything from learning how to read music notation, learning keyboard skills to become a better singer or instrumentalist, or learning how to play piano or organ at an advanced level. The learning process occurs in the mind and body of the student, not the instructor. I can only steer students in the right direction as a facilitator. As a performer, I have over twenty-seven years of performing experience playing both the piano and organ. After working with many gifted instructors and receiving three degrees in music, I have gained knowledge on what performance techniques are musically and physically the most effective. As a private piano instructor, I have over a decade of experience teaching children as young as six and adults in their seventies. As a teaching assistant and associate instructor at the University of Georgia and Indiana University, respectively, I have taught private and class piano to music majors and non-music majors alike using some of the latest technologies and software. My only requirement for students is that they have the curiosity, the will, and the discipline to learn.
See link to a pdf version of the complete studio policy below:
For a full-hour lesson
(Recommended for intermediate and advanced students)
For prospective piano/organ students and parents, I offer a free trial lesson. Students who already have some background in music should bring current materials to the session and be prepared to play at least one musical work for evaluation.
Currently, I give private piano lessons in both Fairhope and Gulf Shores, Alabama. See the studio policy for more information. For those seeking online lessons, I teach using Zoom and Skype as well.
Please fill out the following form.
