Piano with Michael S.

I recently received my Master’s in Music Performance from the University of Delaware, where I had a graduate assistantship. While at UD, I volunteered regularly at the El Sistema-inspired after-school music program Play On, Philly. I received my Bachelor’s in Music Performance with a minor in Music Theory from the world-renowned University of North Texas. While at North Texas, I was the horn instructor for Celina I.S.D. where I taught private lessons to the horn students. I was also a Supplemental Instructor for Music Theory II while at UNT. As an SI, I led three weekly sessions that involved group activities for the students in order to enhance their knowledge and understanding of music theory. I am not sure what first interested me in classical music, but as far back as I can remember, I wanted to learn how to play French horn. I loved the way it looked and sounded and I just had to figure out how to play it myself. I started playing horn when I was 12 and I've been in love ever since. While it can be incredibly frustrating to play sometimes, if you work hard enough and are persistent and dedicated, then you will have a tremendous pay off. After a few years of just playing horn, I started playing trumpet in jazz band. When I was 16, I began studying piano and continued with my piano studies throughout college, including some studies in organ as well. *** Lesson Details *** I will tailor our lessons to your interests and needs as a student. Enjoying yourself while playing your instrument is very important, so I try to always make sure that my students are having fun during their lessons. I am relaxed while still expecting each of my students to achieve their highest potential. My level of expectation will depend upon each student and the issue involved. After six months with me you can expect to be able to fluently read music, feel a significant sense of improvement on your instrument, and will be able to say you know the joy of music-making first hand! *** Studio Equipment *** touch-sensitive keyboard *** Travel Equipment *** Stand, tuner, metronome. I have books, but I would also expect my students to buy books and music of their own. *** Specialties *** I love teaching horn from beginning to advanced. I have a thorough knowledge of étude books and solos most commonly, and not so commonly, used for all levels of horn instruction. I have studied piano and organ for several years and am very familiar with the varying techniques between the two. I have played recorder (most sizes) with my collegium while in grad school as the top voice in a Renaissance recorder ensemble and also as a soloist with a Baroque trio sonata group. I have a strong passion for early music and would be delighted to share my love of the music and the instruction of the instruments to any student.