Michael R.

“Express your best self!”

Located in
Phoenix, AZ 85020

Get Started

Call us at

800-252-1508

Book Online

About
Photos & Videos
Student Reviews 5
Availability
How It Works
Map

General Info
- TakeLessons Certified Teacher
  
  TakeLessons Certified Teacher
  Our rigorous hiring process requires a completed application; an interview with our professional recruiting specialists; personal and professional reference checks; and annual criminal background checks.
- Background Check Complete
  
  Criminal Background Check
  In order to ensure the safety of our students, all teachers undergo a thorough criminal background check, which includes: Social Security number trace, multi-state criminal search and a nationwide sex offender registry search.
- Levels: Beginner to Advanced
- Ages: 5 & up
- In-Home Lessons: Yes
- In-Studio Lessons: Yes
- Online Lessons: No
Subjects Taught In Person

Piano, Violin, Cello, Trumpet, Trombone, Upright Bass, Viola, Acting, Music Performance, Music Theory, Speaking Voice

Education

University of North Texas - Music - 9/89 - 8/94 (Bachelor's degree received)
Loyola University - Music Ed - 9/96 - 5/99 (Master's degree received)

Lesson Details

We begin with what we love. The student usually chooses one of his or her favorite songs to interpret. Later, we add music, usually from the classical or jazz fields, that build our skills and help us feel successful. All technique is based on real music. Learning scales, keys and music theory become part of the music. By the end of 6 months, we will have a "repertoire" of several songs that express our best self!

About

Michael has worked with kids for 10 years in schools and arts programs to find fun and their best self through performance. He has taught orchestra, chamber music, jazz band and music theory in the public schools, while performing in local ensembles in and around the city. He also has studied drama, voice and movement and believes all these skills help in expressing yourself--no matter what pieces you want to play!

In addition to working with students K-12, he also loves working with ...

Read More »

« Read Less
Michael's Photos
Michael's Videos
Rated 5 out of 5 by 5 reviewers.

Rated 5 out of 5 by Bea09 Great experience Michael has been a great instructor. He has patience and a great piano-side manner. Michael allowed me to choose my own type music and went with my pace, He never made me feel like I wasn't moving forward. It has been a pleasure studying with Michael. March 11, 2013
Rated 5 out of 5 by cellochick Review for Micheal R Michael is a wonderful teacher! He is patient, smart, has a great personality,and is a good communicator. He teaches quickly and effectively. In one lesson, he helped correct my bow hand position. As an adult, I am challenged each lesson with something new to learn. At the same time, he adapts to what I enjoy working on and gives me freedom to pick out additional songs I enjoy. He gives honest and encouraging feedback with his online notes. And as a female student, I feel safe at his studio since his conduct is always professional. I highly recommend him as a cello teacher. August 23, 2012
Rated 5 out of 5 by MichaelM2 Michael's style of teaching is just what I was looking for -- works with what I want to do, doesn't put any pressure (stressing that this should be fun), analyzes what I'm doing and works with me to figure out how to best make it better. May 9, 2011
Rated 5 out of 5 by RafaelM1 After three lessons with Michael Michael aside from being a great musician ( I just realized he has a great CD with medieval music) is a great instructor. He has an infinite patience and knows well how to cheer up the progress made by the student, even if they are minimal. On top of that he has a warm personality, he is kind and well-mannered. He is fantastic!! April 18, 2011
Rated 5 out of 5 by pauleenN Excellent with 5 yr old! My daughter can't wait for her piano lessons! She's very excited to show her new skills to family and friends. February 28, 2011
Getting Started
Excited about jumping into music lessons? Before you can get to the guitar tabs, violin concertos, and vocal riffs, take a moment to think about the logistics of your lessons.

Lesson Length

There are a few things to consider when choosing between 30-, 45- or 60-minute lessons. First and foremost, take your age and experience level into account. You'll also want to think about your long- and short-term goals, and the time you'll need to reach them. Most importantly, consider how long you or your child is able to stay focused.

Lesson Location

Teachers have the option to display availability for in-home, in-studio, and online music lessons. In-home lessons take place at your house, in-studio lessons are conducted at the teacher's home or professional studio, and online lessons are taught over the internet via live video chat.

Book Your Lessons Online
Scheduling your lessons is simple and quick! The prompts will guide you through each step, from securing your lesson time to selecting the payment plan that works best for you.

Scheduling Lessons

After you've selected your teacher, click on the Availability tab to see which time slots and days are open.

Booking Options

Click the "Book Online" button to get started. Enter in your contact information, and the prompts will guide you through payments, program options, and confirming your schedule. Learn more about our booking policies.

Payment and Billing

We make paying for your lessons convenient and hassle-free! Prices vary based on several factors, including the city you live in, the length of your lessons, and whether you're taking them at home, in your teacher's studio, or online. Lessons are paid for in advance, which locks in your time slot.

Signing Your Customer Agreement

Signing your Customer Agreement and completing your Student Questionnaire is the last step! The questionnaire will give your instructor valuable information about your goals and experience level, and give him or her time to create a customized lesson plan right from the start.

Start Your Lessons
Now the excitement can really begin! Consider the following to ensure an exceptional first lesson...

Prepare for Your First Lesson

Once you've completed the last step, your teacher will call you within the next couple of days to confirm your first lesson time and provide you with directions to their studio, if needed. We also encourage you to discuss your goals and any other questions you may have.

What To Expect

Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an assessment of where you are in your studies. At a beginner level, you might review the basics of your instrument, such as the different parts, how to hold it correctly, and proper care and maintenance. For voice, this may be the time you learn about breathing and posture.

Reach the Goals You Set

Every TakeLessons student is unique, and so is your lesson plan! You'll work with your instructor to develop a plan suited to meet your specific goals. Most TakeLessons instructors will also keep track of your progress with a lesson journal.

Programs & Pricing
The billing management tools in your online account help you keep track of your upcoming payments. And with several lesson programs available, you can select the one that fits your individual needs.

100% Money Back Guarantee

If you're not completely satisfied with your first lesson, we'll gladly find you another instructor or refund your entire lesson purchase.

Can I pay when I get to the lesson?

In order to reserve your time slot, we require payment at the time of booking, which must be at least seven days before your first lesson takes place.

How does billing work?

Lessons are paid for in advance, which reserves your time slot and the teacher that you want. Your specific billing date will depend on the lesson program you select.

What forms of payment do you accept?

At this time, we accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You also have the option to pay with a debit card. We do not accept payment via cash, check, or money order.

Do you offer a free trial lesson?

We don't offer a free trial lesson; however, we're so confident that you'll love your lessons that we offer new customers a 100% Money Back Guarantee. If you take your first lesson and decide that you don't want to continue, we'll refund the amount you paid INCLUDING the lesson you've already taken. To request the Money Back Guarantee, simply notify us within 72 hours of your first lesson.

Do you offer any discounts?

At this time, we don't offer any discounts. However, if you are booking two students for consecutive in-home lessons, you'll only be charged one travel fee, instead of one fee per lesson.