Chaska Music Lessons

ind out their goals and then show them the fastest and best way to reach those goals. As long as you follow instructions and practice, you can expect amazing results! Most of my students are in the top bands, make All-State auditioned groups, get highest ratings at Solo & Ensemble contests and know how to play!Even when time is a concern, I can still help you move forward. I always take where students are and show them how to get to the next step. I can move at any rate the student wants to move. I am committed to having them have fun and get better!

*** Studio Equipment ***
2 Drumsets, Timpani, Vibraphone, Xylophone, Bells, Snare Drums, marching drum pads, Congas, Timbales, Bongos, Auxiliary Percussion (too many to list) and also TV/Audio equipment to help with playing with music while we do lessons!

*** Specialties ***
I have a series of Rhythm books that are used in multiple schools. I also am well-versed in Drumset, Concert Percussion, Marching Percussion, Steel Drums, and Mallet Percussion

bands and can bring that real-world experience into the lesson. The student will receive real hands-on knowledge about singing in a variety of environments and how to manage his/her vocal goals!

In addition to being vocally healthy, I encourage self-expression and enhance self-esteem in my students: singers of all ages, skill levels and styles. Plus, it has to be fun, otherwise why do it? Singing is a process and less about the end goal and we train the body, mind and use imagination and it's a very exciting process!

***My students regularly receive scholarships and placement in music schools and programs around the U.S., have won competitions, do well in auditions, are performing in successful bands and/or recording artists.

I am energetic and enthusiastic; actively promote values and traditional teaching practices coupled with the introduction of technology into the lesson. My experience as an educator is to share passion and talent for music with the next generation of musicians and outstanding communication skills. I really care about my students and provide the tools to help them reach their goals!

Degrees:
Bachelor of Music, minor in Psychology from Michigan State University
Master of Vocal Pedagogy from Oakland University

Here is some of my experience as a performer: I have sung Internationally at the renowned €œEisteffodd Music Festival€ in Wales, toured through Britain and performed at the Laupin Agile Cabaret in Paris. I was honored with a nomination to attend the prestigious Yale Cabaret Conference and worked with cabaret legend Julie Wilson and Manhattan Transfer founder Laurel Masse. Sung and performed roles with the Mid-Michigan and Detroit Opera Companies. Performed a production of Sleepwalkers€ with the Kari Margolis Brown Company at the O'Shaughnessy Theatre. I currently perform all over the Twin Cities with my own R&B/Soul Band, Melody and The Dramatics!€ Plus, I am a contract vocalist and perform in a variety of other projects, so needless to say, it is all a very awesome ride!

*** Lesson Details ***
My laid-back and fun approach allows for versatility and is tailored to meet the needs of the individual student. When studying the art of singing you are gaining skills, which build confidence.

When you understand what you'€™re doing and why, you bring more confidence to your performance. Progress is made with regular practice outside of lessons. Voice students record each private lesson through their devices and take notes in their own notebooks.

I have "warm-up" tracks which you can use in your car or at home and you will notice significant improvement once you start your routine.

Practicing is very important and I have great methods to teach students how to maximize their time and get the best results! I am privileged to have an opportunity to teach and very passionate about coaching a student to meet his or her musical goals!

Also, I have a Beagle named "Bacon" and he will always be very excited to see you, however he does calm down when you're in the studio. In addition, I have two cats, so please let me know if you have allergies or any special recommendations.

Thanks so much!
Melody

*** Studio Equipment ***
Lessons in the music room, PA system, piano, keyboard, laptop, recording microphone, microphone, mirror.

The house is in a cul-de-sac and there is ample street parking. Also, in the case of a snow emergency, you will be able to park in the driveway.

*** Specialties ***
I teach in a variety of vocal styles including, rock, pop, jazz, country and classical, keyboard and music theory. I have been trained by some of the best instructors in the country and strive for my students to be vocally healthy, so they'll have long careers. I also perform in professional bands, orchestras and can bring that experience into the lesson.
Energetic and enthusiastic; actively promote values and traditional teaching practices coupled with the introduction of technology into the lesson. Experienced educator eager to share passion and talent for music with the next generation of musicians and outstanding communication skills.

thy vocal habits. They will learn all aspects needed to become a well rounded singer: diction, interpretation, musicianship, breath support and focus, all of this while having fun! Also, they will acquire the tools to keep up the work they've done during their lessons in the time between meetings with the teacher.
Pianists will learn to read music and play by ear while acquiring a healthy technique to avoid any injuries.

*** Studio Equipment ***
You'll be learning to play on a beautiful Kawai upright piano.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I own a traveling keyboard but prefer to use a larger instrument if available at the student's home. I also provide musical scores and the use of metronome.

*** Specialties ***
Classical, pop, musical theatre, rock

-breaking Popular Styles Exam Syllabus. I am a 2012 recipient of the Maureen Conway Award for Inspiring Teaching.

Festival in Minneapolis and Festival of Nations in St. Paul. I also perform in a smaller three-person group, known as the Accidental Trio. As a solo musician I have performed for many special events, such as weddings and parties. I have frequently been called upon to play accordion in pit orchestras for musicals, including "Fiddler on the Roof" (5 different productions), "Cabaret," and "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat."

tudied with Ruth Giles, Catherine Ramirez, Patricia George, and Michele Frisch.

h questions and answers. I have found this to be the most productive, as the student remains actively engaged with the lesson. I incorporate other instruments into my lessons; this helps the student understand music as a whole and how their parts fits in. For example, I often reference other percussion instruments and melody instruments when listening to recordings. I also will play simple bass or piano lines to accompany the drum set groove played by the student. With todays technology, I stress the importance of recording and critiquing oneself. I offer this as a part of my lessons.

I love playing drums and I look forward to sharing my knowledge with you!

ve with the lesson material.

My strength is in developing the beginner piano student, teaching music theory and basic skills. Beyond that I am able to develop a musician to work with, and eventually lead a team of musicians.