
Mark L.

Teaching Locations:

About Mark L.
AS OF APRIL 21, 2020 I AM ONLY TEACHING ONLINE. I DO NOT CURRENTLY HAVE STUDENTS VISITING MY STUDIO BECAUSE OF THE CORONA OUTBREAK. I teach according to your individual needs. I only teach in my own studio. I do not travel anymore. I also have time to teach lessons every other week. You may inquire to me about my availability to teach every other week on Saturdays. I help you become successful on piano, violin, cello, viola, bass, guitar, or bass guitar. I help you learn the instrument and learn to read music with my own ideas using fun worksheets and songs you really like to learn how to play. I fill your voids with activities such as practice techniques, sub-lessons, and ear training. I guide you toward proper posture, tone development, and the ability to keep a steady beat. I help you develop your musical independence by tweaking lessons to help you succeed. I help you have fun learning to read music for your instrument using my materials. I believe talent is not a factor in learning. Mastering an instrument is the result of effective instruction and step by step guidance toward foundations and skills. I love to teach private lessons because I believe in spreading the word to make the great gift of playing music available to many. It is an inherited right and gift to enjoy a lifetime of personal satisfaction from playing a musical instrument. I love to help students build confidence and make progress. I help them problem solve by going through problems with them. I teach "how to think" and how to become a life long learner of the instrument. I love the challenge of finding ways to help students become successful at every step of the way. I am excited and enthused to be apart of student progress. I am influenced by many 20th Century performers including Van Cliburn, Oscar Peterson, George Shearing, Erroll Garner, Yudi Menuhin, Issac Stern, Dave Brubeck, and Horowitz among others. I am passionate in my teaching about providing an effective solution to my student's needs. I am pleased to announce my teaching has awarded a cello student a spot at Del Sol music high school for the 2017-2018 school year. this student of mine passed an audition January of 2017 as a result of my teaching. The student worked very hard and followed my instruction very well. Congratulations!! I am also pleased to announce two of my cello students have both passed auditions to play in the Las Vegas Youth Orchestra starting in September 2017, September 2018, and September 2019. They both auditioned during May 2017, May 2018, and May 2019. Congratulations to both of you!!! There is also a viola student of mine who has passed audition for LVYO in May 2019 for the September 2019 season; Congratulations!! I also had a violin student who passed auditions for LVA (Las Vegas Academy) a couple of years ago. I have no connection to these organizations. These students all worked hard and followed my instruction. As of February 2020 I have been informed of 3 students of mine who have been accepted to (LVA), Las Vegas Academy for the 2020-2021 school year. They include violin, viola, and upright bass. I can help you learn as well. Recently with the development of "octave" strings, if you have been split between learning violin, viola, or cello; these strings installed on a violin or viola make the instrument sound like a cello. It is really something. They are tuned an octave below, so they sound very low. A lot of cello music will have to be transcribed for owners of these instruments installed with "octave" strings. Videos can be found on YOU TUBE of these instruments played. They are ordinary violins or violas strung up with thicker strings to sound an octave below.
I am a professional educator who works with both children and adults, and has the patience to help them. I am a performer who has over 30 years of public experience in solo playing as well as ensemble work. I have performed at Nordstrom for nine years, and performed at many private functions. I have performed classical as well as jazz music as part as my performance experience. I have taught private lessons for well over 20 years. I'm sorry, as of Summer 2016 I do not travel to student locations. I teach at my studio as well as online. If you are among the many parents who home-school your children, you should consider music lessons for them. There are many benefits of home-schooling, but unfortunately students miss out on specials. Practicing an instrument can make up for that and also teach critical learning habits and personal skills toward learning in general. Give me a try, in my studio or online; I can help you learn.
*** Lesson Details ***
I believe in personalizing your approach to the strangeness of the instrument. You need to learn much about posture, and proper tone production within the first year. Method books are not "how to" books. You need a teacher to guide you toward becoming familiar with the instrument. You also need to learn how to listen to the sounds you make as you play. To develop "musical independence" you need to become musically literate, develop tone production skills, and internalize a steady beat. Rhythm and tone are basic concepts that must be mastered to maximize pleasure in playing your instrument. Learning how to problem solve is another skill I teach so you can help yourself toward progress.
I believe in using the instrument in daily activities such as playing "Happy Birthday" at family get together. Christmas Songs or Hanukkah Songs can bring much joy during December family parties.
A musician in the house brings much joy during holidays and celebrations; and the families are brought closer together. Memories are created and last forever. Playing an instrument is exciting and expresses what can not be said using words. I believe in teaching students based on their strengths, and building upon them. I am excited to help you learn!!
I only teach in my own studio and online. I do not travel anymore.
You can advance quickly if you are taught to listen to yourself and follow my instruction. I will guide you every step of the way to understand how music making works. Music lessons are fun and enjoyable. I am pleased to guide you through your learning every step of the way. My students in Las Vegas have had much success with my teaching and guidance. I will succeed where others fail. You will reap the benefits of my professional instruction. I bring a wealth of teaching experience, teacher training, and professional playing experience to every lesson. Most music store studio instructors have very little or no teacher training. Playing experience does not make one a helpful teacher. Failure to learn "how to" teach along with not earning any teaching credentials will not make anyone an effective music instructor.
I have experience teaching children and adults with autism within a variety of functioning ranges. They learn in their own unique style which suits them best.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Grand Piano 5'1', Digital Piano 88 Keys, Violin, Viola, Bass Guitars ( 5 String Fretless), electric guitar (Fender), Upright Bass 3/4 Size French/German Bows.
*** Specialties ***
Suzuki for string instruments. Thompson, Schaum for piano. Blues, Jazz and " Real Book " for jazz piano as well as Frank Mantooth books for chords. I also create materials to suit individual student needs. Classical Piano Volumes.
Reviews
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Mark is a smart, talented, and highly responsive teacher. His knowledge of the material (jazz piano) is evident, as is his skill. Every lesson he encourages me to reach out with additional questions or ask for additional resources, and he's quick to provide a lead sheet or hand-written notes explaining music theory. He explains concepts well, is patient, and encouraging. I think of Mark as a guide to help me on my musical journey, and he's been a wonderful guide (at a great price).

Mark is a good teacher. Very patient and friendly with students.

Lessons with Mark might work for you if you are treating them as extra help on your violin school homework. However, he was not effective as leading teacher. He kept asking what we are going to work on today, and didn't have any plan how to lead the lesson. Also he kept praising the playing even when it was pretty bad, and didn't offer immediate feedback and guidance how to correct it. On the flip side the lesson pricing is reasonable so that might still work for some people.

Very intuitive and delightful to learn with. He is very open to sharing new tips. So far, the best teacher I have had.

Mark was friendly and encouraging!

Mark, You are an amazing teacher. You encourage, inspire, identify variety of techniques to teach and help learn. You are flexible to work to the needs of the student.
Wish you a wonderful new year 2021 !!

He really listens to a student’s needs and where they want to go. Mark gives excellent feedback and is a passionate teacher. Highly recommend!

Very knowledgeable, patient and encouraging. Highly recommend.

Mark is awesome. He has a uniquely designed and patented method to reach reading music quickly. My daughter learned to read all the violin notes with rapidity in two months. Today he had her play a new piece she never saw before by reading the music. The smile on her face when she realized what she had accomplished was priceless.

Very Knowledgeable and student friendly. My brother really enojyed his first class. Thank you!

I love this guy! He's patient, supportive, encouraging and always has a cheerful demeanor. His positive attitude keeps me motivated to continue learning. "Drops fill buckets".


Great first lesson. Already learned a lot.

Mark is AMAZING!!!!!!
My son Caleb was struggling with his required music with the symphony, and Mark really helped bring his confidence level up. Now he plays all the time without being reminded. Thanks Mark!

He was great! Maggy is learning so much! So glad we found Mark

Great experience.


Mark is a great teacher, not only for his knowledge in music but for the instrument as well. He is a patient and kind but will also encourage you to break out of your comfort zone to guide you towards the goals you want to achieve on your instrument. I really enjoy my lessons because not only am I getting better on the upright bass, I feel the lessons have helped me become a better musician.

Excellent first lesson with Mark (also very first online lesson in anything). I was impressed with how much was accomplished and done in just 30 minutes. Most importantly, my kid enjoyed it despite the initial resistance and is already asking about his next lesson.

Awesome first lesson.

Very knowledgeable and worked well with my grandson

Wonderful teacher, wonderful person! I’m looking forward to a many, many future lessons.

Really good first lesson for a complete beginner!

I have taken several lessons with Mark and I think he is an outstanding cello and music teacher. Mark has a substantial knowledge of cello, music and other instruments and his method of teaching is so great that it has make me feel that even with the crazy busy life that I have I can tackle the cello and I will have a good measure of success at my own pace in the future. He is incredibly patient, encouraging and good natured while totally engaged in getting you further in learning music and the cello in this case. He has sent information every week of relevant material to be covered in the next class which is very helpful and he adapts very well to your own style, whether you want to start playing right away or you prefer more emphasis in music notation, etc. He makes himself easily available to answer any questions or to discuss changes in schedule and to top It off he is a really nice person. I would recommend Mark heartily and enthusiastically to anyone who wants to learn cello of any musical instrument he teaches.

Mark is thorough as an instructor and relatable as a person. He takes time to explain theory and is very patient and reassurant about my progress in my lessons. I feel fortunate to have found Mark on my initial search for a music instructor.

My son said he was “a perfect teacher” and came back home all excited after his first lesson

Very professional instructor! Extremely knowlegable! Mark is very patient and informative. This is my 2nd year taking violin lessons and I love it!

I have never learned so much in a lesson! He was polite and amazing. So knowledgeable!! Great teacher. Would recommend to anyone!!

Very patient, professional and privides easy to understand instructions. 100% recommended.

Mark is a wonderful teacher, He is very knowledgeable, and patient.
He is very professional and encouraging. My husband and I really enjoy the enthusiasm he shows about our daughter's progress. He goes above and beyond his duty as a piano teacher. My daughter really likes and respects him.
Thank you Mark for being part of our journey.
Carlos and Luce Grant
and shows . you Mark for your professionalism and enthusiasm. You are a fantastic music teacher. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge and encouraging me to push forward.he is kno
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Subjectloagble and pacient

I have been enjoying my music lessons a lot, I am learning to play guitar and violin, and Mr L. is very patient and knows how to help me and my daughter, who is also learning to play violin, in the ways we need help to improve our playing.

Easy going pleasant feel comfortable and I think he can give me what I'm looking for in a piano teacher

I always anticipate my violin lesson with Mark, he is such a patient and encouraging instructor. Without fail, he is available and willing to review any concerns or hesitations I may have or feel in my violin progression. Thank you mark

I’ve been taking violin lessons with Mark for about 2 months now. He is always punctual. He is a patient instructor and very encouraging. He allows you to work at your own pace. Thank you Mark for your professionalism and enthusiasm. You are a fantastic music teacher. Thank you for sharing your wealth of knowledge and encouraging me to push forward.

Absolutely wonderful! This instructor is your biggest cheerleader & teaches at a speed you need.

Very professional. Very informative.

I really appreciate Mark's patience with a 10 year old with no music experience whatsoever! He is really good at what he does.

First day went well, I think he's very good teacher. Looking forward for more lessons to come.

Mark is very observant; he saw right away my strong points and where I need help. Very polite, very courteous, what a gentleman.

Exelent with my 5 y/o daughter. Very patient and explains how to play piano and read music in a way ahe understands. I very happy with her progress and the leasons

Mark is best music teacher .I learn a lot from him very first lesson.

Patience and nice teacher.

Wow! Mark is a great teacher ! I have learned so much these past 7 months. I can now play and read basic music. He is very patient and positive. I recommend him for anyone who wants to learn how to play piano. Thank you again sir

Excellent teacher!
Was patient, encouraging, professional, considerate, and above all very knowledgeable.
I think things are going to work out just fine.
Thank you very much.
With our appreciation and gratitude.
Sincerely,
Chandler.

Mark is so kind and patient. You can tell he is very knowledgeable and loves teaching. So excited to work with him.

I learned so much in just my first lesson! Mark makes learning easy!

Very helpful and even though I had one year experience playing the Cello he gave me great information on becoming better Cello player

Mark was wonderful, very knowledgeable! He was able to teach my daughter in a way that she actually understood. My daughter has A.D.D. He was far from my home but TOTALLY worth it. I will continue the lessons with Mark.

My daughter just had her first piano lesson and is excited to go back next week. Mark started teaching her right away and she was starting to play Old Mac Donald by the end of her first lesson.

Mark has been a great teacher for my first year! He's not only a bass teacher but a school music teacher also and knows many instruments. I highly recommend him!

Mark is excellent in a teacher and a person . Highly recommended by me . . . .

Good instructor, very informative.

First lesson was a real confidence booster. Mark had me quickly making music with my violin. And I'm already looking forward to the next lesson! My excitement to know this instrument has increased exponentially.

Mark is an amazing teacher. These lessons are for my daughter holly . In one lesson holly was doing amazing . Holly is looking forward to each and every week.

Mr. Mark is an amazing teacher who is very accommodating and so relaxed when he teaches that won't make a student be intimidated at all. I can see that my daughter is very comfortable with him during the lessons especially with sharing some ideas and thoughts for her improvement in playing her violin. After just a few sessions, my daughter already told me that she became more confident in playing with the orchestra in school. She said that Mr. Mark knows what he is talking about. 😊👍

Mr. Mark is an amazing teacher who is very accommodating and so relaxed when he teaches that won't make a student be intimidated at all. I can see that my daughter is very comfortable with him during the lessons especially with sharing some ideas and thoughts for her improvement in playing her violin. After just a few sessions, my daughter already told me that she became more confident in playing with the orchestra in school. She said that Mr. Mark knows what he is talking about. 😊👍

Great beginning for an absolute beginner.

Mark was really encouraging the whole time! My first lesson was super informative. I was really happy I was able to learn my first song by the end.

He was prepared and was great communicating before, during, and after the lesson!

Mark is a great teacher! I like how professional Mark always is and how well he works with my daughter. Marks is very knowledgeable about the material and I couldn't have asked for a more patient teacher than him.

Really enjoying learning to read music and more!

Mark did great! My daughter really did a great job on her first lesson. Mark is very patient and knows how to make a little kid like mine to listen to him..what an incredible teacher! but the location from where I live is very far...but it's all worth it.

I'm just starting so it was great to get so much encouragement from Mark! Plus, he helped me find a violin online to purchase. Thanks Mark!!

Mark is so great!!!He has taught my daughter so much in such a short time!!!!Highly recommend him.

Goes the extra mile, and helps with all your weaknesses! Looking forward to my next lesson!

Mark has been teaching our 5 year old son the violin and we could not be happier. If we could give him 10 stars we would! He is an amazing instructor. Our son is growing leaps and bounds under Mark's direction.

My 13 year old granddaughter just finished her 1st year of viola at school in June 2014 and she wanted to take summer lessons to stay sharp. There were a lot of teachers available within a 10-15 minute drive, but after trying other teachers, we chose Mark (a 30 minute drive ) because, as others have commented, he is extremely patient and teaches by correcting, not criticizing. He simply has a gift for teaching. I have never regretted the extra drive. Once you've had a lesson with him, you won't want to go to anyone else.
The best violin instructor
Mark is a wonderful violin instructor. It has been a joy to watch him teach my daughter. Mark has so many great qualities in his teaching skills in bringing out the best in a student. My daughter has learned to have confidence and a passion for playing the violin and I feel that he is the reason behind it. I highly recommend Mark as an instructor. He is patient and kind and knows how to approach each student to fit their learning needs.
Wow!
Mark is an excellent teacher. He motivates with praise, and corrects gently. He is so knowledgable that he leads rather than pushes. One of the best teachers I have ever seen!
The best piano teacher I ever have
I started piano lessons in Hong Kong at 21 years old. I took piano lessons on and off for 5 years before I moved to the states. I am a nurse and piano is not the most easiest thing to learn. I never feel like I can truly learn and play the instrument well with most of my teachers in the past. After 20 yrs without a teacher, I decided to give piano my last attempt. By far, Mr Lacey is the best teacher. He is very patient, knowledgeable and encouraging to his students. I have learned a lot just a few lessons. I am now learning the piano first time ever without the unnecessary stress.
best present i could have given my hasband.
The teacher and my husband are both passionate about music, he raves about his lessons after each one.he is so excited. He also wants to take more lessons for the bass.
Mr. Lacey is the Best!!
My 5 year old LOVES him. Mr. Lacey communicates well with his students. He uses positive reinforcement, but makes it a point to teach that students take ownership. My grandson has only been taking lessons for a couple of months, and is already playing several songs on the violin. I would totally recommend Mr. Lacey to anyone interested in learning an instrument.
Feedback
The lessons are going well with Donavon and his instructor Mr. Lacey. He is a very good instructor and takes his time with Donavon. We're glad to have him.
amazing job
Mark is a dream teacher, patient, kind, knowledgeable. He is my daughter's favorite teacher of all time, he always provide a safe nurturing educative environment for her, making everything work so flawlessly, her skills are improving faster thanks to hos method . We have lucked out with this dream instructor
Photos & Videos
8 Photos & VideosExperience
Teacher
Aug 1992 - PresentClark County Schools
I've been a music teacher every year since 1992.
Education
Bac. MusEd 1990
Sep 1985 - Jun 1990Cleveland State University
Bach.MusEd
Sep 1985 - Jun 1990CSU
Languages
I only speak English. My Spanish is very limited.
Limited Proficiency
Certifications
STEINWAY & SONS PIANO TEACHER
May 2015STEINWAY & SONS PIANO MFG.
Music Education Licence State of Nevada
Aug 2006Nevada Dept. of Education
Awards
Who's Who in American Teachers, Jazz Festival Award
Jul 2005National Academic Affairs, CCC
Affiliations
D'Adarrio Education Collective
Dec 2017National Education Association
Aug 1992Let Our Student Counselors Help You
We can match you with the perfect teacher and take care of all your scheduling needs.
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