Become the musician you want to be
Piano is the instrument recommended for anyone who is not sure where to start in their musical training. Students learn how to read music on both the treble and bass clefs so they are then ready to go on to playing any other instruments such as classical guitar, band instruments and even voice (it is important to be able to “pick out" the melody of a song or to play pitches used in vocal exercises.) All piano students will be instructed in basic classical training including sight reading and musical theory. After that basic training is accomplished, the student can branch out into other types of music they are interested in playing such as all classical, pop, playing chords for accompaniment while singing, and composition.
Guitar is a favorite instrument for many. Basic folk guitar is taught which includes learning chords in order to accompany singing. Attention is given to learning different strumming patterns to fit different tempos and time signatures . When the student is ready, instruction in picking the guitar is given. If the student wants to accompany his own singing, some vocal training is also given. Classical guitar is also offered which is playing melody on guitar. This means reading music written on a staff so the student will need to have had training such as Piano lessons in reading music.
Voice students will be instructed in how to sing different styles of music without straining their vocal cords. Vocalises (vocal exercises) are used to attain a wider singing range, clear enunciation and diction, how to reach high and low notes within the student's range and more. Songs will be chosen by the teacher but students may also suggest songs they would like to sing. Care is taken to make sure each song best fits the voice type, abilities and range of the student.
Ukulele is a good beginning instrument for younger students who may be interested in guitar but whose fingers are not long enough and/or strong enough to play guitar. The ukulele has only four strings instead of six which makes it easier for younger students to play. As in guitar lessons, chords are taught to accompany singing and if the student accompanies his own singing some vocal instruction will also be given. Attention is given to keeping a steady beat with different strumming rhythms.