Flat Rock Music Lessons

world.
From 2002 – 2005 he was first violinist at Lodz’s Operetta Theater.
I moved to Michigan in 2005, where he performs with Macomb, Jackson and Flat Rock Symphony Orchestras.

*** Lesson Details ***
The most interesting and beneficial thing about performing music is that it is one of the few activities that engages both the left and the right brain at the same time. I believe that every Human Being is precious and deserves to be nurtured and encouraged in a fun and loving environment. With that in mind, my teaching places equal importance on developing strong technique, and developing creativity. Students learn all the basics of music, and also spend time developing strong ensemble skills and strong background knowledge of style and repertoire, so that they can enjoy music in all kinds of settings, all their lives.
Our time spent together will be laid back and comfortable, yet challenging because that is probably why you want to take lessons.
Each lesson will conclude with an assignment of instrumental pieces/songs given to work on throughout the week—usually 2-3 short songs for 30-minute lessons, and 1-2 longer instrumental pieces for an hour-long lesson. These will be the same pieces we have worked on during the lesson time, so you will go home with the knowledge you need to master each piece. Music theory sheets and technique exercises will also be included in the assignments.
Within 6 months, you will begin discovering how to read music and understand the language of it. You will learn how to play some of your favorite songs/instrumental pieces and learn some that you might not know. We'll discover what you really want to learn and achieve through taking lessons, and we will work toward those goals!
Discipline is vital to musical progress and daily practice is strongly urged, in order for the student to progress. If a students don't practice, they won't progress. Because of that, you can expect that I will encourage consistent and regular practice, always keeping in mind that the study of music is meant to be fun.
Knowing from experience how "boring" it can be to learn by rote, I combine technical work with fun time playing duets together, improvising, and exploring a wide variety of styles and genres of music.
I would be honored to share my knowledge and love of music with you. Give yourself a priceless gift that will last a lifetime!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Grand Piano /Hammond Organ

*** Travel Equipment ***
I expect the student to have their own instrument. I can provide the music stand and I always bring my own instrument so that I can demonstrate during lessons.

*** Specialties ***
Teaching methods: Suzuki and traditional /formal method, in group and one on one settings

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.

Besides touring internationally as a Guitarist and Saxophonist, I am 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. So, if you are a songwriter, we can polish up your approach!

If you would like to learn how to compose a Solo, a Duet or Ensemble, I can get you started in a low-stress, one-step-at-a-time procedure. 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 am Composer and Conductor for New York City's first full-on Saxophone Orchestra; a 13-member ensemble.

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.

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.

cher of Singing, where she serves as Vice President.
Two times judge at the Vocal Competition for Michigan High School Student.

to use those experiences in my teaching. In my undergraduate, I struggled with classes and learning in lessons. Today, I use my tricks and techniques with my students to help them learn in a safe, fun environment. I teach how my favorite teachers taught me, trying new ideas or concepts till one works or sticks with the student. Being flexible is an important part of teaching and every student is different. It's important to know how to "go with the flow."

Please feel free to email or call me with any questions! I am happy to talk to you to see if we are a good match!

llow and logical and practical guideline that will allow musicianship in it's greatest form to bloom forth from the student. Heavy emphasis on solid technique, artistry, theory, and ear training makes for a well rounded and informed player/singer! I can teach from my home, your home, online, or even from the practice rooms at Wayne State if Detroit is a good middle ground or closer for you!

Thanks for taking the time to read this :)