Seffner Performing Arts Classes

ld percussion make Will a highly sort after entertainer and educator. He has been an artist in residence at many schools and Universities over the course of his 25 years of instructing. He is actively performing and teaching both locally in Metro Atlanta and online.

*** Lesson Details ***
For most of us drummers and rhythmatists we cannot go an hour without banging something or tapping or humming or moving.. if this describes you or your child then Im the guy who would be delighted to foster your development in your lifelong pursuit of the ultimate beat. I cannot give you God given talent , but I can take what talent god has given you and accentuate the positive. Work with you on fundamentals, technique, timbre, timing, tuning, sight reading..the list goes on..Its a lifelong pursuit..How long you choose to pursue it is up to you.. Im here to be your mentor.

Im pretty laid back with teaching discipline. Either you got it or you dont. I cannot push you or force you into practicing.. You must inherently love music and love rhythm and love drumming or percussion. If I am working with you on Kit drumming you will be starting out with the basics unless you have experience. I normally do an assessment to determine where you are at.. If I am teaching you hand percussion or African or Asian based drums then its strictly an aural based learning experience. No books just memorization. Kit drumming will require either you have your own Drum kit if I am coming to your house or of you travel to my studio I will have 1 drum kit to share , but you must have your own sticks. I do employ books in Drum Kit lessons. I will give you the names of the books based on what I think your level is and we can go from there..

Music is a complex yet beautiful language. Once you are immersed in the culture of the beat your journey thus begins. And journeys like these last a lifetime. I hope I can be a part of your experience.

Many Blessings
One Rhythm
One Love

*** Studio Equipment ***
Medium Size Studio Room at Buddha Bike & Drum
6215 Johns Creek Commons- Johns CReek, Georgia 30097 with One complete drum set . The studio room is sound proofed. Students must bring their own sticks and any books required during the time of the lesson

*** Travel Equipment ***
I have percussion, I have my own sticks, students should have their own drum kit and any percussion gear they want to learn

*** Specialties ***
Steeldrum or Pan, World Percussion: West African, Latin American, SE Asian, Chinese and Japanese

re completed at the American University, where I majored in Communications (B.A.), and minored in Music, voice being my instrument. During my undergraduate studies, I was recruited and performed as the lead female vocalist for a Rock band that a few fellow music students had formed. While in college, I was trained in classical voice, piano, music theory, musical theater performance, and vocal pedagogy (vocal training). My vocal pedagogy studies credentialed me to become a professional vocal instructor. I began teaching voice after I earned my degree, and have been teaching private voice lessons for over ten years.

Most of my present expertise in teaching voice grew from my vocal pedagogy studies, my teaching experience which has developed over time, my own personal vocal dedication, and my training and understanding of various genres of vocal performance. My present singing career is as an inspirational singer; my vocal students encompass various genres in which I have experience, including: Inspirational, Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, Rock, Classical, as well as various degrees of popular music.

*** Audition Preparation ***
I have coached many of my students to prepare for auditions: auditions to be accepted into performing arts schools, parts in musicals and plays, joining a band or vocal ensemble, as well as auditions for televised singing shows, such as "The Voice," "Sunday's Best," "American Idol" and "The X Factor."

*** Lesson Details ***
I teach students by using the tried and true techniques I have found to be successful, and allow the student to be my guide as to which direction to take with his or her vocal training. Whether the student is a novice, a professional, or somewhere in between, each student, after obtaining the basic singing knowledge and techniques, will have a vocal training schedule geared to his or her individual needs and development. Lessons are for the most part very casual in nature, and the student’s dedication (practice, practice, practice) will dictate whether or not the lessons become stricter. A few months into the vocal instruction, students will be given the opportunity to learn more about reading music and sight singing, if he or she so chooses, as well as vocal performance techniques for singing in front of an audience. Within one year, dedicated students may also have the opportunity to show off what they have learned, and perform in front of an audience at a recital with other vocal students. Please note that my preference is to work with teens age 13 through adults of any age. I believe that younger voices need more time to develop and stand to be damaged if too much stress is put on them too soon. However, exceptions for children under 13 may be made for gifted young singers.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Home studio- entry room of home, baby grand piano, seating area, dry erase board, mirrors
Music Studio- one recording studio, seating area, classroom

*** Travel Equipment ***
If needed, I provide a portable piano keyboard, microphone with amplifier, paper handouts of lessons, etc. The student needs to have paper to take notes and a writing instrument.

*** Specialties ***
Most of my voice lesson experience has been with adults, and contemporary popular and inspirational music.

les that may seem too hard to the student. I will start my students off with the basic vocal warm ups and then move on to material that they would like to cover and if so the student doesn't have material to cover, I will present them with material. Being a singer is not easy at all, so I will challenge my students by giving exercises that challenge them to sing for proficient. I will also bring in material that is brand new and ask the students questions about the piece. The student is in the lesson to learn everything about music, so any type of material that I feel will benefit them and help them move closer to their goal, I will definitely present to them. After 3 to 6 months students will be able to sing in the 3 minor keys and the major key. The student will also have knowledge and know how to sing at least 3 different modes. The singer will know how to read basic sheet music and perform it with solfege. The singer will also have 4 songs of my choice or their choice mastered and ready to perform in front of an audience. Lastly, the singer will have knowledge of proper breath control while performing, usage of a microphone, and intonation.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano/ Keyboard
Music Stand
Water

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in classical, gospel and R and B singing.

g chords to follow most any style. I also enjoy teaching some music theory (the rules of music) in written, sight singing, and piano chords, if requested. Music theory along with voice and instrument lessons can provide a further understanding of each musical concept.

My training first began in elementary school, in Virginia Beach, VA, when I took my first group voice lessons and concert band classes as a beginning flutist. I continued my study with a large home school band in the 7th grade. I was then chosen to play the flute in an All City Band in Virginia Beach, for excellence in my performance skills. From there I continued my study at a private school in Virginia Beach with many chorus, band, and youth band classes to further my music reading and improvisational performance skills. At age eighteen I moved to Tampa, FL and became a Liberal Arts major with a concentration in Music at Hillsborough Community College (HCC). I graduated from HCC with an AA in Liberal Arts/Music. I was then accepted to further my music study at the University of South Florida (USF). I studied voice and a sampling of other instruments in the Music Education program. I graduated with two and one-half years of music education training and another four years of voice training with a BA in Music Studies. Also, during my college years I participated in the elite USF Chamber Singers, the University Singers, the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay, and many studio recitals. 

In 2013 I completed my fourth year of music teaching in a small private school in Tampa, FL. I have sang with Opera Tampa since their 2012-2013 season in the professional opera chorus for productions such as Carmen, The Magic Flute, and Madame Butterfly. I have continued to add new performance jobs with The Princeton Festival in Princeton, NJ (2014), St. Petersburg Opera in St Pete, FL , and the Tampa Spiritual Ensemble performing in the surrounding Tampa Bay areas. In addition, I continue my studies part time at the Patel Conservatory in downtown Tampa.  

I look forward to working with you to make all your music dreams come true! So, let's make beautiful music together very soon!  

*** Lesson Details ***
When taking lessons with me you can expect to learn in a very positive, encouraging, and laid back environment! I believe that learning is fun, very rewarding, and never stops. I plan to continue learning more about my craft for the rest of my life and I would encourage my students of all ages to adopt this mentality also. 

For voice lessons I like to begin with warm-ups and breathing exercises that can be modified to any style of songs. Then to song selections that will be enjoyable, yet helpful in making your voice better. For opera style I primarily use the G. Schirmer Opera Anthology books, and Hal Leonard published anthology series' for different art songs. For all other vocal styles I enjoy using various published individual-song sheet music or CDs and accompaniment tracks. Along the way giving all applicable tips for producing better sound, projection, breathing, phrasing, and musicality.

For flute lessons I would begin with scales or simple exercises. Then to specific pieces that you would want to work on or techniques from the Accent on Achievement or Standards of Excellence book series'.

For piano lessons I would begin with finger stretches, scale warm-ups and/or easy chords or pieces to get the fingers ready to practice. Then I would progress to your chosen pieces or a book from the Alfred or Bastien Piano Book series', which includes books for all levels and styles. 

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide a keyboard for demos and use for students, a flute for demos, CDs, and some lesson books.

*** Specialties ***
Vocal: Up to advanced level Classical, Jazz, Musical Theatre, R&B, Pop, Gospel, Sight-reading
Flute: Up to Intermediate level Classical, Sight-reading
Piano: Beginner & Intermediate levels Classical, Chord Theory, Sight-reading

. I also train business owners, salespeople and those who are simply terrified to present themselves in the art of public speaking.

This is NOT your average coaching session! This is for those who are ready to finally overcome the world’s #1 fear: PUBLIC PERFORMANCE.
Get ready to present yourself, business, product or service with confidence, personality and effectiveness.

My lighthearted and humorous approach to seemingly stressful situations, especially in the public performance sector, have made me a highly sought-after coach for one-on-one and group training.

My approach is designed to train and condition the entire body as an instrument, not just the oral portion of the voice. My 5-octave vocal range allows me to easily instruct my students in developing their whistle register (see special pricing for whistle training). I have been trained in (and teach) Classical, Appoggio, jazz/improv, Seth Riggs' speech-level singing and other methodologies of singing and speaking.

My method of assessing and meeting the needs of each student enables me to assist them in bringing out the very best in their capabilities. If you desire quality, effectiveness and noticeable improvement in your singing, writing, public speaking or overall performance, I am the coach for you!
Whether you are a beginner or professional, I make sure that you are comfortable and have a great time while learning. I am flexible with your needs so feel free to let me know what you want from your lessons and we can work towards your goal to your satisfaction.

Not only am I a coach, I’m a professional singer and public speaker, so I utilize and perfect my own techniques on a regular basis. I have the privilege of being a classically-trained pianist and vocalist, having studied at Sherwood Conservatory of Music, Vandercook College of Music, The Second City, University of Chicago, ETA Performing Arts Center and many other fine institutions.

Children love working with me because I make learning fun and they have a high retention rate of the techniques that I teach them. I am easygoing, funny and offer a minimalist, casual and relaxed environment for everyone. My adult students have a blast because our lessons feel more like a friendly visit with lighthearted humor.

*** Specialties ***
Pitch Correction
Whistle Register Development
Vocal Physiology
Overcoming Performance Anxiety
Accent Reduction
Repertoire Selection
Concert and Competition Preparation
Public Speaking
Physical Maintenance of the Vocal Instrument
Overcoming Speech Impediments
Stage Movement
Studio Recording Techniques
Songwriting
Image Development
Vocal Range Enhancement
Post-surgical re-immersion
Students with autism, down syndrome and speech impediments

Group classes are also available.

*** Lesson Details ***
Each lesson is tailor-made to suit the student's individual needs. Custom action plan will be given to each student on a case-by-case basis. No instruments are used in my lessons, as I train the voice to be a standalone instrument. However, if you would like to accompany yourself with a guitar, piano or percussion instrument, you are very welcome to do so.

I am available 24 hours a day for online coaching and as early as 6:00 am CST for in-person sessions.

*Please note that 15-minute sessions are ONLY available online. In-person sessions must be a minimum of 30 minutes. 31 and 61-minute sessions are ONLY for whistle register training.

Online Disclaimer:
When choosing online lessons, please make sure that your system is functioning properly, that you know how to use the platform, that you have a good internet connection and that you are logged in on time, as no concessions will be made for time used due to technical difficulties.

Timing Disclaimer:
Our time together is very valuable. If you are not on time for your session, the missed portion will not be made up at the end of the session. If I am not on time, I will make up the missed portion at the end of the session or alternate agreed-upon time. No exceptions or make-up sessions will be made for illness, weather, transportation issues (including car trouble), or any other short-notice reason. Rescheduled lessons must be made a minimum of 48 hours in advance and must be made up within the calendar week of the original lesson. If it is not made up within that week, it will still count as a paid session and cannot be made up at a later time.

ama "Past Life" and has acted in many independent films. While in DC he was the Drama teacher at Fillmore Arts Center, a public magnet school for the performing arts, teaching children from Kindergarten to 8th grade. Michael is currently acting in Nickelodeon's new series "I Am Frankie" debuting this fall. He enjoys teaching both adults and young people as well as caring for his own spirited child.

unique abilities, limitations, preferences, and interests. Whether students prefer, or do better, with traditional materials, playing/singing along with their favorite recordings, improvisation, or anything in between, I am more than happy to accommodate and bring out each student’s best!

I teach real music -- students begin playing music they love almost from day-one. For example, many of my piano and guitar students pride themselves on learning to play every song on Beatles One ... playing right along with the CD! Reading, playing by ear, improvisation (jamming), singing while you play ... there are so many ways to play and avenues to explore in music.

**** MY STUDIO ****

My studio is spacious (very spacious – no cubicles here!), well-appointed, and very quiet. Unlike music stores and multi-lesson facilities, there are no other lessons on the premises, no drummer going crazy on the other side of the wall. This means students can concentrate better and learn faster. There is also plenty of room for parents and siblings who may wish to sit in on lessons.

**** STYLES / GENRES ****

I believe that students make the most progress learning music they love and I am very happy to teach every student the style of music he or she loves most.

My most requested genres are: pop, rock, country, blues, film/television, classic rock, jazz, and classical. Some students arrive knowing exactly what they want, but most are happy to explore various styles that interest them in search of the perfect fit. It is not at all uncommon for a student to spend part of their lesson polishing up a Beethoven piece or jazz standard, then finish up playing the chords to “Hotel California” along with the CD. Another student might start off their lesson learning a Taylor Swift hit, then move over to doing some blues improvisation. Variety is a wonderful thing and it is highly encouraged.

**** MY STUDENTS ****

Over the years, I have taught students from four years old to eighty-somethings. I’ve taught absolute beginners (most of my students start from square-one), hobbyists, seasoned professionals, even a Grammy nominee and a Grammy winner! Many of my young students have gone on to perform in school bands / jazz bands and/or professionally. In all cases, they acquire a skill that will last for a lifetime and provide joy, enrichment, and satisfaction.

Do you have a song or two in your heart. Contact me today and I will help you reach your musical goals no matter what they may be!