Jbphh, HI Music Performance Lessons

ue-Afro-Haitian-Afro-Cuban and Modern
African drumming and percussion: Jembe and shekere with song and folklore.

s of music as opposed to just "picking and grinning", IE learning only "By Ear." I do specialize in music theory, and have many students taking lessons simply for this excellent foundation for songwriting also.

I am a classically trained guitarist that performs both as a soloist and for ensemble in a wide variety of styles. I graduated in 1996 from Schoolcraft College with an Associates degree in Music performance, and then, studying under the tutelage of Brian Roberts went on to receive my Bachelor's degree in Guitar Performance with a secondary in Jazz from Wayne State University in 2004. While at Wayne State and along the way I've performed and participated in several masterclasses with renowned artists: William Kanengiser, John Holmquest, Philip Candelaria, Jason Vieaux, Scott Tennant, and Antigoni Goni. I have also completed the teacher requirements for books 1-a and 1-b for the Suzuki Guitar Institute.

Many of my classical guitar and electric guitar students have went on to study further at the collegiate level, some achieving scholarships. My most recent students are current Berklee school of music graduates now in a band called "Flight of Fire", recently opened for Bonjovi this past summer and are getting air time on local radio stations... well on their way to living the dream! …the bulk of my students become full time professional musicians.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am an extremely patient person who has been teaching for over 20 years. I am laid back so there will be no pressure. With my electric and steel string guitar students, I host a special "Jam Session" 2 - 3 times a year to which will be one of your goals to participate in. This includes playing with a drummer, bassist, singer and another guitar player (usually me) and having it recorded. This should serve as your motivation to practice. This really eliminates the need for me to pull out a "yardstick" and "smack" your hands over the knuckles when not practicing your scales as many old traditional teachers may have done!

At your first lesson I will talk with you and give you examples of music that is played with a Flat-Pick, or music that uses the Finger-Style technique. This will be an important process as it will dictate which direction you will go in as a musician and especially during our lessons.

For the most part, playing with a Flat-Pick is generally used with the electric guitar and with most mainstream styles of music like "Rock and Roll", "Blues", "Rock-a-Billy" "Funk", and playing with the Finger-Style technique is used in styles like "Classical" and "Folk." After a while, I will introduce you to the other style of playing as well, as most great guitar players use both techniques in their playing...musicians (guitarists) such as: “Jimmy Page“, “Brian Setzer”, “Stevie Ray Vaughan”, “Joe Satriani”, “Lindsey Buckingham”, “Paul McCartney”, “John Mayer”, and many, many more.

To make learning the guitar Fun, I make sure to incorporate your main interest(s) first. Whether it be learning your new favorite song(s), learning how to write a song, or just learning some basics that you can use for when sitting around the campfire. This will be intertwined with which style you choose to start with: Flat-Pick or Finger-Style.

Pending on the level that you are starting at, (beginner, intermediate, advanced) I will include tidbits of music theory that will be used in a consistent manner. These will usually be progressive, pending on your level. For example, the songs you learn will be written out in an easy to understand chart that will have the fundamental aspects of theory (IE, chords, key, and rhythm pattern) that all musicians should understand.

With Children learning with a Flat-Pick, I encourage the use of a basic guitar instruction book.
Level One (beginners) :

"Hal Leonard Guitar Method Book One" by Will Schmid.

I will also use as a substitute for Level One:
"Alfred's Basic Guitar Method" by Alfred's Publishing Co.

More advanced players who can read music already (and graduates from book one) I prefer;
"Hal Leonard Guitar Method Book Two"

With Adults, I will ask if learning to read music interests you. It is a vital part of a practicing musician, but sometimes your needs may require a more one dimensional approach as time may be of essence. Again, I learned by ear and educated myself later...so I understand the person who wants to hold off on reading right away.

Students who want to learn the Classical (Finger-Style) approach will be encouraged to purchase a beginners book that I use written by one of my first instructors/mentor. It is a very intuitive book that covers the technique in great detail yet is very easy to understand (along with my help.) I will provide means of acquiring this book at your first lesson.

Students who want to learn the Folk (Finger-Style) approach will usually start in the above book, unless your an adult who just wants to learn some basics.

At your first lesson I will also provide you with documentation that goes more in depth about the various styles of guitar as the above info is scaled down.

*** Studio Equipment ***
-Amps

-Guitars (Electric, Acoustic, Classical, Bass)

- PA (loud speakers so you can Turn it Up! When playing along)

-Band in a Box (to play along with real prerecorded instruments seamlessly interleaved into a band type setting with almost unlimited genre choices...very impressive technology)

- Pro Tools (recording gear for all needs)

- Guitar Pro and Finale (to transpose music into sheet music)

-Skype (for out of town interactivity. Can do lessons via Skype)

-Basement with plenty of seating for parents, and or observers.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in Classical Guitar, Electric Guitar, and Acoustic Guitar; Improvisation, Songwriting, Backup Vocals, Fretboard Harmony, Music Theory, Performance, and Recording.

ool Districts for over five years. Shortly after receiving her master€'s degree for Literacy Education, Nicole decided to attempt to share her passion for music. In 2007, Nicole opened a music studio in Holbrook, New York. Here, she refined her music teaching skills while establishing Nicolex Inc. Music Island as a leading source of quality music education. Her summer traveling music program allowed her students to experience live performances as well as create music groups with peers with the same passion for music.
Nicole now resides in Tampa, Florida with hopes to spread her business as well as the joy of music to children and adults. She currently is the singer for a local original rock band. In this band, Nicole writes songs, sings, plays guitar/piano (not all at the same time). Needless to say, she understands the importance that music has had in her life and wishes to ignite that passion in other music lovers.

*** Lesson Details ***
My teaching style is best labeled as kind but firm. I take my job very seriously and want wholeheartedly for my students to have music as a part of their life, not just a part of their day. I love to laugh and have fun but I will definitely expect my students to practice and complete any homework I assign and be prepared for the following lesson. Simply stated, music is fun and the love of my life, but if I still practice, you will as well. Otherwise, I always believe in teaching songs my students are interested in and will expand their musical skills. My experience as a public school teacher had enhanced my sense of finding individual needs of every student. Therefore, I always differentiate lessons to suit my students interest while teaching them the foundations every musician needs in order to be successful. My specialty is teaching a variety of instruments. I play drums, guitar, bass, piano, and sing as well. So, if one instrument is not for you, I can teach you something different without a problem. Long story short, friends, you are in good hands.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Full Service music room: Keyboard, Full drum kit, Electric Guitar with 30 watts Amp and Microphone/ vocal monitor.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can bring a 76 key Yahama YPG-235 Keyboard for your household to use for lessons for a small monthly rental fee. I have an Epiphone Electric Guitar with 30w amplifier. Will also bring microphone and monitor for vocal lessons.

*** Specialties ***
I have taught mostly Rock, Blues, and Classical genres for Piano, Guitar, Drums. Vocally, I specialize in R&B, Broadway, Pop, Top 100 and alternative/Hard Rock. I will adapt to your needs.

n. I am an accomplished composer/songwriter with many published and recorded songs and instrumental works through ASCAP. I endeavor to make learning fun, and enjoy teaching students of all ages!

Online student requirements: A fast, reliable COMPUTER; HIGH SPEED INTERNET (at least 400 kbps); SKYPE software; WEBCAM (preferably HD); MICROPHONE (most laptops or tablets have mikes built in). Be sure your camera is focused on you and your instrument, if applicable.

vidual path toward realizing their potential.

Here's a bit about my background and musical experience:

Bachelors of Fine Arts degree (Theatre/Voice) from United States International University Graduated Valedictorian
Chula Vista School of Creative and Performing Arts Graduated Valedictorian
Workshops and studying with Bill Doyle, Roy Mote, Andrew Barnicle, Jack Tygett, Leanne Summers, among others.

"After seeing Danielle, I was impressed with her intensity as a performer. Her ability to get behind a lyric was stunning, she lives every line. As an artistic performer, I've yet to see better."
-Tony Ferguson / Interscope Records: No Doubt, Bush, Fisher

My original band, Danielle and The Masses, has been recording and performing live since 2001. We are endorsed by Ani Difranco, The Black Eyed Peas, The Bruce Hornsby Band, and have shared the stage with artists as Jamie Foxx, CAKE, Metric, En Vogue, David Byrne, Berlin, Margaret Cho, Cyndi Lauper, Jonatha Brooke, Beth Hart, Semi Precious Weapons and more.

I have written and performed music and voice over for Ace Ventura, Nutty Professor, VH1, various TV shows and independent documentaries, Eveoke Dance Theatre, among others, as well as having recorded eight professional CDs of various styles on various record labels.

For over ten years, my record / production company, Say It Records has been producing socially conscious music events throughout San Diego and Southern California that promote independent music, film, art, community and human rights. I also co-own Durga Sound, a teaching and production studio, with producer Alicia Champion, as well as San Diego IndieFest, a powerful community event which promotes and supports music, film, art and civic engagement.

I have a great time utilizing my contacts in the industry to help my students get work/ press / entrance into the schools of their choice, etc. For example, I'm happy to report that just last year we were able to book eight musicians on GLEE, as well as lots more in other capacities including using their music in commercials and film and helping them get cast in local theatre and accepted into arts-centered schools.

*** Lesson Details ***
I start on the first lesson by becoming clear about what the new student's goals and desires are from there, we start developing technique to achieve those goals along with having fun right away doing what they came for - singing, writing, voice over, acting or using a combination of these things be it for professional purposes or personal fulfillment. Every lesson is personally customized to meet the specific goals of each student. As a teacher, I'm encouraging and fun, passionate and positive. While I'm definitely not "strict", I do appreciate focus and drive. However, I often work with people who have special needs and are working on developing those very things. I'm especially good at helping people through progress plateaus, roadblocks, stage fright, loss/ stress. Using music as a means of release and healing - for both kids and adults - is something I do a lot of and am very comfortable with.

As far as technique is concerned, I focus on utilizing posture, correct breathing and developing relaxed, strong support, so that the muscles are developed properly. We want the voice to develop without stress, enabling the student to constantly grow while steering clear of any injury that can happen as a result of straining, not to mention other habits that manifest when we sing without proper technique.

I strongly encourage students to record their lessons on a mobile device so they can practice easily on their own, and so they eventually have a record of how far they've grown.
We mostly use tracks to develop repertoire, prepare for auditioning and performances, and to have fun singing the music that excites each student the most.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Apple Mac Pro Quad Core running OS 10.8.3
Avid Pro Tools 10 HDX
Propellor Reason 4.0
UA 2-610 Microphone Pre-amp
UA LA-610 Microphone Pre-amp and Compressor
UA Teletronix LA2A Compressor/ Limiter
Behringer ADA 8000
more...

*** Specialties ***
Using music, writing and voice as a means of expressing yourself, growing as a performance artist, coping in challenging times, as well as a means of going professional and earning income are all areas I specialize in. Utilizing proper technique and learning how to sing / speak safely is also an area I focus on a great deal.

Learning precisely what each student wants is the key factor in my decision on how to achieve their goals. For example, using Speech Level Singing is definitely entrenched in my teaching, but I may not highlight it as much for those who want a more classical sound.

I excel with the following: first timers, very young kids, students working through stage fright, artists looking to develop their own original project, those seeking growth in their process of writing / recording / performing, those who are interested in using music and / or writing as therapy as well as with amateurs who've always wanted to do something musical but who think they are "too old" or too "untalented/short/tall/ fill in the blank" to try. I believe we all have something to say with our lives - finding the voice within you can be an incredibly powerful and transformative experience!

as Narzerath House, Bay View, Bella Vista, Monte Vista Village, and La Mesa Health Care Center, as well as making In-Home visits. These include independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care facilities around SD! I also have experience playing for the actively dying for hospice and consider it an honor to be of musical assistance for people in transition.

I love to teach and can make my harp and voice lessons unique to each individual based on their current skill level. I love watching people expand and grow through music. Your lessons will be engaging, compassionate, fun, and organized! Each lesson will encourage you to become excited about your musical growth and inspire you to continue. I offer something unusual for a harp teacher in that I can teach both improvisation and music theory for the harp. This means that you will get the best of both worlds!

I also have obtained education from the Self-Heal School of Herbal Studies here in San Diego, where I have learned about herbal medicine. I am well versed in many alternative therapies (such as E.F.T., meditation, therapeutic music, Ayurvedic medicine, amino acid therapy, etc.) and can provide compassion, understanding, and strategies for alleviating suffering as a Life Coach. My education towards my Master's degree in Psychology also helps me increase my understanding of the human condition and offer additional support for anxiety, depression, addiction, and other stresses. I believe that everyone deserves to live a life of freedom, safety, comfort, and relaxation. I hope to provide loving assistance for anyone seeking someone who cares and will put in the time to truly listen and offer advice.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and please let me know how I can be of service to you!

riate to each piece.

Social Goals:
Create a polite & kindly atmosphere.
Dissolve the STRESS, allowing singing to be FUN.
Keep the student motivated.

Accompaniment options:
Melody line only/basic chords (when learning repertoire & vocal techniques.)
Pre-recorded tracks. (CD/Tape for practice & performance.)
Hire an accompanist. (For applicable lessons & performance.)

Practicing Goals: (Monthly Practice Schedule Handout)
Encourage consistency rather than length.

We will study proper breathing, placement, stretching your vocal range, posture, poise, vowels, stage presence, communicating the lyric of a song, connecting with your audience, song selection, voice type, ear training, confidence, mic technique, how to read music, music resources, building your repertoire, pitch, rhythm, how to choose a song, vocal exercises, proper technique, mouth placement, tone, and facial expressions amongst many others! The following is a current biography, but I will provide a teaching and performing resume upon request. I am also happy to provide samples of me singing! I do not have a website at this time, but I am working on having it set up very soon! I look forward to hearing from you!

"Amy most recently performed with Musical Theatre West's productions of the highly acclaimed, Sweeney Todd, directed by Calvin Remsburg, and Annie with Tony Award winner Andrea McArdle. She came straight from starring in a beautiful production of Godspell at the Candlelight Pavilion, and as Mabel in Performance Riverside's production of Pirates of Penzance. She had the pleasure of playing Josie Cohan in the world premiere of Academy Award winner Richard Sherman's new musical, Pazzazz! at the El Capitan theatre in Hollywood. She'™s traveled around the world performing with Norwegian Cruise Lines and Vox Lumiere, and locally with Orange County Opera and Enrichment Works Productions. Regional theatre: Mary in the Glory of Christmas (Crystal Cathedral), Johanna in Sweeney Todd(Starlight Bowl), Jenny in Company(Performance Riverside), Cinderella in Into the Woods(Candlelight Pavilion), Rosina in Barber of Seville (Orange County Opera), Belle in Beauty and the Beast (ITL Award), Sarah in Guys and Dolls (Candlelight Pavilion)."

ve allergies to know.

coach for the Grammy Award Winning Pacific Boychoir. I also sang professionally for ensembles such as the San Francisco Symphony Chorus, Clerestory, American Bach Soloists and San Francisco Pocket Opera.

I am currently a vocal instructor for Sweetwater Music Academy, music director for the Jesters (a theatre ensemble for people with developmental disabilities) and I sing for hospital patients as a Parkview Healing Artist. I have taught grade levels K-8 in private schools so I am accustomed to all age levels.

As a songwriter I have composed and performed music for MTV, VHI, E! and the Oxygen Network, and have acted on commercials for Southern Comfort, Old Spice, & Anthem Blue Cross.

I am also the songwriter and front man for the original regional RootsRock band, Fernando T. & The Wickersham Bros and have established myself as a teaching artist for young audiences through the Carnegie Hall Link Up Concert Series.

I look forward any questions you may have and hope to help you or your child find creative fulfillment from the most unique instrument in the world- your voice!

[PLEASE NOTE: I will be teaching exclusively online from June-December 2017 period and am happy to squeeze in as many in in location lessons you would like before then]

nied by a full orchestra. Her top high school choirs toured California and won best overall at the California Music Educators conference. Her adult students have gone on to great heights, winning recording contracts, lead roles and awards. Her students have won movie rolls, singing competitions and some have even become YouTube viral sensations.

TEACHING METHODS:

Classical technique: Colleen has studied classical technique under Sherri Greenawald, the Grammy winning Artistic Director of the San Francisco Opera.

Contemporary technique: Colleen has studied with some of the top voice teachers in the music industry. She studies directly from Linda Septien, a legend in the music industry. Linda is ranked as one of the top 5 talent coaches in the world. Some of Linda's students include: Beyonce, Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Ryan Cabrera and Hunter Parish and more. She is an adviser for American Idol, The Voice and America's Got Talent. Colleen continues to pass on Linda's stellar methods to her students.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Voice lessons consist of a tailored curriculum created specifically for each student, targeting areas that will have the most impact for each individual artist. Learn to expand your range, using your diaphragm properly; learn scatting, breathing techniques, belt, mixed voice and head voice. Learn how to add texture and style to your performance.
Great entertaining is also about presentation, visual energy and staging. Learn how to be an all around entertainer through timed movement, staging and story telling.

YOUR FIRST LESSONS

Lessons can be booked by clicking the green "continue" button. Want to talk first? Click the "Ask A Question" button at the top of your screen.

It would be great if you could come to the first lesson with a song you can perform, one you can sing either on your own without music or using a karaoke track from YouTube.