DEGREES/Certifications: MA, GC, MM, BS, BA, SET, PFT, GFT AFFILIATIONS: Writing: ACES, WPA-GO Music: AAUP, AFM, ASOL/LAO, CMS, HFC, NFA, IDRS, ICS, NASA. Fitness: ISSA, NDETA, ASHI, USAT, LCT, BAM, HRTC. -------------- MUSIC (see fitness below): Shannon has numerous years of experience teaching all skill levels on woodwinds, and beginning-intermediate piano & classical strings, using various approaches to best suit the student's learning style, personality, and needs. Shannon is an active musician who has been featured as a soloist and in the flute and woodwind sections with various orchestras, chamber ensembles, opera orchestras, and musical theatre within the United States, Italy, and Mexico. She is presently the founder, CEO, and Principal Flute of the Texas Chamber Symphony, Director of the Da Capo Chamber Ensembles, and is a substitute musician with the Orquesta Sinfnica de Monterrey, Symphony of Southeast Texas, and Opera in the Heights. Shannon has been a faculty member at various colleges and is currently an Applied Instructor of Music at Jessup University and a retired Adjunct Professor of Music at Brazosport College; and also has an active private studio, Leigh Studios. She has served the College Music Society South-Central as Regional President, vice-president, and newsletter editor; and is an Advisory Board member for the Houston Flute Club after retiring as president and other positions. And she was also the newsletter editor for the Upper Mid-west flute associate and a board member of other organizations. Shannon received her Master of Music degree in Performance from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. She also studied at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and received her B.A. degree in Performance and B.S. degree in Music-Business from Winona State University, and has studied with world-renowned instructors. Shannon has received grants for her work from the Minnesota State Arts Board, American Federation of Musicians, Rome Festival Orchestra, and the Winona Music Guild, and was the 1997 recipient of the Vivian Menees Nelson Music Award. *** Lesson Details *** I am pretty easygoing. I want you to feel comfortable and at ease, but we do need to focus and can have fun doing it. :) I utilize various methods for each instrument, which is determined by the student's learning style, ability, and needs, so this can change as time goes on (not sticking to one particular publisher's materials). I have done (and continue to do) extensive research into materials available for each instrument I teach and supplement with my own to utilize the best out there for "YOU" for the best possible progress. While ensuring an extremely well-rounded musical education, so you can progress at the best possible rate. Since each student's potential is different, each will progress differently. This is also determined by your dedication to daily practice (the more you practice, the quicker you will progress & the more accomplished you will become). This is a 'Team Effort'; I give the guidance and tools. You practice, utilize, and learn these tools, and off we go! The sky is the limit! *** Specialties *** Classical, jazz, folk, improvisation ---------------------------------- WRITING: Editor, copy & content editor, writer. Many years of writing experience for publishers, organizations, associations, newsletters, event advertisements and programs, and more. ---------------------------------- FITNESS: Shannon has been athletic most of her life. She is a Certified Personal Trainer, Specialist in Exercise Therapy, and running / multisport (swim/bike/run) coach for 15 years. She is a sponsored athlete and a 2023 Team USA World Championship Qualifier in Spain. A 2018 Team USA World Championship Qualifier and Participant in Denmark, and has also placed in her age group at numerous endurance events. She applies her years of teaching experience to helping you reach your physical and nutritional goals to be the best and healthiest you can be. She's not for quick fixes/results. It's all about a transformational lifestyle change. Enjoy the journey! It's well worth it! (see info above). Shannon is also a sponsored triathlete and trainer/coach/race director and gives workshops on the importance of healthy living, nutrition, and exercise for musicians. She is a board member for The Lake Charles Triathletes. And she is a strong advocate for music, health, and triathlon.