Classical Piano with Shelby W.

In addition to 18 years of formal training in piano, I have studied violin and viola, played in student orchestras, sung in various vocal ensembles and choirs, accompanied on piano for sacred worship settings, and participated in numerous musical events. In 2014, I received a Bachelor's in Music (piano performance) from Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL. My education consisted of the highest training in piano pedagogy, music theory and composition, ear training, sight reading, song writing, music history, and music literature. My teaching style and strategy incorporates all these components to ensure my students receive a well-rounded education not just in piano but also music in general. I do emphasize classical repertoire when selecting song for students. However, I highly encourage my students to choose songs they really want to learn according to personal taste and style preferences. I also make it my goal to expose each of my students to other musical genres such as jazz, rock, etc. My desire is to make the learning experience fun for students as well as educational. I want to motivate my students to practice and learn, without a spirit of obligation or dread. If I cannot do this, I have not done my job properly. I love piano. My goal is to express this love to my students in the high hopes they will develop a personal passion for piano that will further inspire them in continued musical learning. To understand, to play, to engage, and to experience music opens a phenomenal avenue of life, one that is passionate, emotional, real, enigmatic, complex.