Canton, MI Music Performance Lessons

avel Equipment
I will provide some sheet music, and a music stand
My students are expected to provide their instrument and method books.

The student should have his/her own instrument, so they can practice regularly.

*** Specialties ***
Gospel, Classical, Pop, Inspirational, Sacred, Wedding, etcetera

sons as well as classes, clinics, College Prep courses and is a member of The American Guild of Music. He is a versatile teacher and motivated performer and is fluent in most every style of music.

"I can teach you everything you need to know to accomplish your musical goals!!! Music should be fun and my approach is to ensure a rewarding experience for every individual student"

*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons can be scheduled for once a week or every 2 weeks, 30 min - 45 min and 1 hr available.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Home Studio: a dedicated music room with a baby grand piano, electric guitars; acoustic guitars, bass, drums... full digital recording studio and rehearsal space!

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide all teaching materials and personal equipment, the student needs to have their own instrument... guitar rental is available!

*** Specialties ***
I am open to any and all methods, genres and styles...

I have more availability than is shown here and try to be flexible with scheduling...

ngs, commercials, albums, and CD's with talented artist. Learning to play from a DVD or the internet can not properly teach a beginner bass player, because there should be a student/teacher interaction, one has to already know how to play in order for a DVD to be effective, and i truly believe one will still need an instructor. i enjoy teaching and playing bass. i teach (4 to 6 string), which includes learning to read bass clef notes, scales, chords, keys signatures and time on the music staff, etc., etc., i can teach tab also. i like to teach beginners to give them the correct and formal fingering techniques, then later if they like, they can go all willy nilly. i get satisfactory results. i also love playing guitar and piano, i know these instruments very well and because i want to teach as many as i can to keep real music alive, i also teach beginner guitar and piano, all the above applies to guitar and piano lessons, and music theory and ear training. i like using small i's

*** Lesson Details ***
Depending on the student's current level of understanding music and playing your instrument, i start with the healthy way to play your instrument, traditional left hand and right hand techniques, learning exercises, scales, chords, keys, ear training for how to find the part in songs, also music theory including how to read music, and improvising, then different styles of playing bass and guitar, including thump and pluck, now known as slap bass, hammer and tap, harmonics, flamenco and more, most of all i make it fun. With practice you will know how to play your instrument very well, or if you just want to learn songs or licks, its all good i work for you. are you ready? i am, lets go

*** Travel Equipment ***
i can provide a bass, a guitar, a keyboard and amp, but i expect student to have their own instrument and amp to practice

*** Specialties ***
i teach all genres, and i teach you to understand the music on your instrument.

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.

der Paul Finkbeiner, the lead trumpet player for the Paul Keller Ensemble.

Then at the age of 11, with the help of his grandfather he discovered the guitar. He learned quickly on his old SR guitar. He quickly discovered that he had a natural taste for blues phrasing, and his soloing abilities quickly blossomed. 2 years later, he had formed his first band, Spherical. It was through this band that he found the bass.

His journey into the realm of bass, began out of necessity and progressed into love of the bottom end. Since then, he has been collecting basses, playing, living and breathing bass. He now realizes the importance of a funky beat, a subtle line and most important of all A Tight Groove!!!

The benefit of studying under someone with a vast array of both talent and experience is clear.

*** Lesson Details ***
During his musical career Nicholas has played almost every style of music; from folk to experimental from jazz to rock. One thread holds true through all music, it has to groove.
During the course of a lesson he will cover a broad range of topics starting from the basics, and moving into ear training, sight-reading, theoretical knowledge and most important for bass players, groove. Just as every player has their own musical personality and voice, so to does every lesson that Nicholas gives.
In a supportive, patient environment, every lesson is custom tailored to the student.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Home: lessons in dedicated music room with piano and stereo, guitars/basses, cables/amps

*** Specialties ***
Jazz Studies major at Wayne State University. Has a firm understanding of music across both the classical and jazz idioms spanning multiple instruments.

cts not directly related to the arts such as Mathematics and Science.

One of the most important aspects of playing Music is being able to Play by Ear. This has been a priceless gift that I have developed throughout my life and I encourage all musicians, young and old, to do the same. The use of simple Rhythmic Dictation and Ear Training exercises can do wonders for "picking out" Beats and Harmonies no matter what Genre we are interested in.

I attended music courses at The Boston School of Contemporary Music, Thomas Jefferson College (MI), and have a BA double majoring in Music Composition and English at Columbia College Chicago.

I have toured internationally as a Guitarist and Saxophonist. I am also a Songwriter. THIRD BORDER's "Sun of Water; Sea of Light" was selected to be nominated for the Grammy's as The Best Alternative Album of the Year in 2006. On this record, I played Guitar, Saxophone, sang Lead Vocal and wrote all Songs on that CD. So, if you are a Songwriter, we can polish up your approach! As a Composer, I have done Sound Design for Film, Dance, Spoken Word and Multi-media Performance - most notably with renowned poet Anne Carson and former members of The Merce Cunningham Dance Co.

I hope to talk to you soon!
Benjamin

*** Lesson Details ***
My teaching style is relaxed with a forte on Patience and Encouragement. Though I have specific expectations on what needs to be learned, I gear each lesson towards the student's wishes and their personal direction in Creativity. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced student, I can guide you wherever you are headed!

For Guitar (acoustic or electric), you will learn the fundamentals of Music Theory, Chord Structure, varied Strumming and Picking Techniques, and Scale Positions to travel from one part of the neck to the other. Any song you wish to learn, I can teach!

For Saxophone, you will learn proper Embouchure technique, Notation, Music Theory, and Scale Patterns for improvisation. Whether you are interested in a Classical, Blues, Funk or Jazz approach, I can help you find your own sound that is both personal and professional.

I teach 2nd year Piano and Drums/Percussion directing you into Intermediate level.

For those leaning toward the experimental genres, I am well-versed in the use of Electronics. Much can be accomplished with my lessons on Sound-Scape Improvisation either as 1 on 1 or Group Workshops.

*** Studio Equipment ***
At Home Studio: music stands, metronome, guitar amps, electric and acoustic guitars, guitar tablature, staff music paper, a scanner for weekly homework. I can also record and send MP3s of our lessons to review at home if you wish.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Students will need their own instrument, a mutually chosen music book to learn from, a metronome, and hopefully easy access to a keyboard (very helpful!)

*** Specialties ***
I am fluent in Rock genres, Blues, Beginning Jazz, Beginning Classical technique, Prepared Guitar, Electronics/Sound Art.

use a variety of curriculum, which includes classical, broadway, some pop, new age, and jazz. After 3 to 6 months you will have a basic understanding of your instrument and will be ready to take off! I do ask students to keep track of your practicing so you can see your progress.

For piano:
I use the Alfred Basic Books for beginners and then we move to the Keith Snell books along with other supplemental books. If a student already is using a book, generally we will finish that book up so they won't have to purchase another set of books.

For Saxophone and Clarinet:
I use the Rubank books along with other supplemental books

For Voice:
I use the 24 Italian Songs and Arias, The Young Singer, and various Broadway books. Any pop music must be purchased by student as there is just way too much to chose from for me to have a lot of it.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Home Studio: in living room with 2 pianos at entrance of house. Seating is available as well toys and a table for siblings.

*** Specialties ***
Voice - Classical & Broadway
Piano - classical
Clarinet - classical and pop
Saxophone - classical, pop, and some jazz

n the lives of people.
Most of my career tenure has been with the Detroit Public Schools. I have worked at various
levels in Pre-K – 12 schools but the longest has been twelve years at Cody High School. I have
enjoyed coaching the students and working with the music staff at the Cody Complex. These students
are very talented and eager to express their creativity and musical ability. I am a seasoned musician
with sight reading, transposing and improvisational skills. I used these skills to work with children
and young adults in small groups, larger groups and individual coaching in preparation for festivals
competitions and auditions.
I would like to continue providing this service to the young people within the Greater Metro
Detroit Area. Music is an important part of youth development in math and English. It also helps to
produce character and leaderships skills of discipline, teamwork, commitment and pride. I've also done the same for my private piano students, in studio as well as in a corporate setting.

*** Lesson Details ***
I am a diligent instructor that possesses intuitive goals, almost from the first few lessons! I am always encouraging, and give modest yet helpful criticism. I insist on teaching and developing the fundamentals in private study, ie, standard concepts and music theory. In three months time, the student will know whether we are a good fit, whether or not they like my instruction, and discover their unique abilities as a result of my facilitation!

*** Travel Equipment ***
I expect the student to have an acoustic piano, or a full-sized weighted keyboard, if not full-sized, then a keyboard consisting of 76 working keys!

*** Specialties ***
I am a classically trained musician. I am also a church musician. My other styles do include pop, jazz, oldies, gospel and contemporary christian music. I start with the basics before moving to any other styles of music.

ant voice

Some children also have beautiful natural voices, but they are not ready for the kind of voice training that is appropriate for an adult. A child's voice is small in every sense of the word. They cannot produce the volume or range that an adult can without straining their voice. They can learn the fundamentals of music, how to read music, how to count, rhythm and musicality. The music chosen for them needs to be easy to sing and age-appropriate Songs that a child likes that are too high can easily be re-arranged in a different key so they can sing music that they like without straining their voice.

If you are considering voice lessons for you or your child, it is a good way to develop musicianship and build a repertoire of music that you will enjoy singing. The training will be enjoyable and very effective. You will begin to see an improvement in technique after the first lesson.

I was trained in voice performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music and hold a degree from Case Western Reserve University where in art and music theory. I have more than twenty years of professional experience including singing with a Chorale that performed with the Cleveland Symphony and performances as a soloist for choirs in Ohio and Michigan.

I founded and directed the Academie des Beaux-Arts, a performing arts school in Birmingham, and the Actors Alliance Theatre, a professional theater company that gave many young people an opportunity to gain experience working with professional actors. I have a combination of skills in voice and theater performance that sets me apart as a teacher who can help you develop a better singing voice and learn how to perform with artistry.