Porter Music Lessons

re committed to a regular practice schedule, are attentive during lessons, ask questions, and are honest with themselves about what is and is not working.

I began my teaching career in college while earning a Bachelor's in Music from Southwestern University (magna cum laude). I currently play as a soloist and with groups including AURORA: Trio for Flute, Harp, and Cello, the Shimmer Flute Choir, and Sounds of Silver Flute Quartet. I am also an active member of the Music Teacher's National Association and volunteer coordinator of the Houston Flute Club.

I love performing and I share my passion for music with my students.

*** Lesson Details ***

***I only teach lessons in my studio or online for certain subjects. I DO NOT TRAVEL TO STUDENTS' HOMES.***

Flute Lessons:

I offer lessons that cover just about every aspect of playing the Western concert flute. Students can expect to become well-rounded musicians who are knowledgeable about flute technique, tone, music theory and history. I use a combination of the Rubank Method and Flute 101 books with handout supplements.

The biggest changes I've seen in my students after a few months is a better understanding of how to practice efficiently as well as improved tone. Furthermore, every year many of my students earn superior ratings of 1 on their UIL solos.

Every Spring my students and I participate in Flute Fest, a day-long celebration of all things flute, including concerts, masterclasses, and a solo and ensemble contest. A few weeks later we have our annual studio recital where everyone shows off their hard work.

A NOTE ABOUT WOODEN FLUTES

Occasionally I am asked to help students play wooden, non-western flutes. Although the very basic fundamentals are the same, I do not play these flutes and do not teach them.

Piano Lessons:

Piano is not only fun to play for its own sake, but provides a foundation for all music making. Students will learn about proper posture and hand-positioning, note-reading, rhythm, and a little history as well, using the Piano Pronto book series.

Music Theory Lessons:

I can help students of any instrument better understand the fundamental concepts of music theory: scales, intervals, chords, part-writing, etc. Theory lessons take place at the piano to demonstrate concepts. However, students do not have to play piano to take theory lessons. I typically use a combination of the Master Theory curriculum and other handouts, unless the student is already working out of another textbook.

**Online theory lessons** use the same curriculum, but with the screen share feature to help my demonstrations.

Summer Curriculum:

During the summer I offer additional group classes on different subjects, including theory and ear-training. I try something new every year to provide a variety of opportunities for students to learn and grow in their musicianship.

***Tuition Packages***
I have added my own features to the two tuition options TL already offers. I consider the Recurring Schedule a Subscription Package, where clients pay the same amount every month, equal to the value of four lessons, regardless of the number of lessons attended. This guarantees a permanent reservation of your time slot. I call the Schedule-As-You-Go the A La Carte Package, for those who cannot commit to a regular time. There is no reservation of a time slot and you pay for a few lessons at a time. I am happy to answer questions about tuition through the Ask A Question feature!

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studio is located in the front room of my home and includes a music stand, piano, and comfortable chairs in case parents would like to stay for the lesson.

*** Specialties ***
I primarily concentrate on classical music, but I also have experience with extended techniques, which include singing and playing at the same time, key clicks, and multiphonics.

s serious beginners from ages 5-99. He can also help intermediate, advanced students and pro players fine tune their skills and learn to play the music they hear. His laid back but structured approach has helped many of his students over the years become solid musicians and attain their musical goals. Robert uses a combination of his own teaching materials combined with the best of what he has learned over the years studying with countless world class teachers and players. With his over 20 years of teaching experience he is able to synthesize all this knowledge and make it easily accessible to all of his students. Robert teaches a variety of styles which include blues, classic rock, R&B, pop, country and jazz. All lessons are tailored to the individual student's interests and goals. In addition to this Robert makes his lessons fun too!

Paula Page, former Houston Symphony Principal Harpist, and Joan Holland, harp instructor at the University of Michigan and Interlochen Arts Academy & Camp to cater to each of her individual student's needs.

re effective; I believe music will help make each individual a well-rounded human being and ready to face the challenges of everyday life.