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What Kind of Studio is MusicScholars?

My studio is one that cares about every student. I treat everyone as if they were my own child. I talk to them, on their level, as an individual. I encourage them every step of the way. And I guide everyone using time-honored and proven curricula and methods. I try to foster an environment where every student will want to come to their lesson. And I create results.  

 

At lessons, we learn theory; we build technique; we learn to read and write music; and we build our song list (repertoire). Sometimes there are worksheets to do at home. And we work on special songs that we can play for those special occasions! We don't just learn songs, we learn about them … music history, styles, customs … all about what makes them a great song. We learn how songs are “constructed” and sometimes we even make up our own. I try to create a complete musician.

 

Music is meant to be enjoyed. Let's have fun! Sometimes we play on the grand piano, sometimes on the electronic keyboard, or sometimes we play both together! And, of course, we sing along! The studio is an open atmosphere, so parents and siblings sometimes participate, as well. I have a small recording studio, so we can record performances, or we could even shoot video. Would Grandma like to see one of your lessons? We can Skype her so she can watch. We use the technology of today.

 

And, for music to be fully appreciated, there must be a performer and a listener. There are a number of ways that we will create performance opportunities, including recitals and other outside performances -- both as a listener and as a participant.   I also encourage field trips and other unique activities to widen your horizon and build your music experience.

 

The Phoenix MusicScholars Music Studio is in a central convenient location just off S.R. 51 & East Greenway Rd.  I accept students from all musical backgrounds or studios. I have a long lifetime of varied musical experience that I am eager to share with you.   I understand what it's like to raise a family and stick to a budget; that's why I offer family discounts for multiple students -- and, you only pay for lessons you attend.

 

My background includes study at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania School of Music.  I have over 50+years Musical Performance & Technical Experience, as well as 20 years of private postsecondary school / education administration experience.  See my complete bio.  To assure you of student safety, I've undergone a voluntary criminal background check, and am registered with the state of Arizona -- just like public school teachers are required to do.

What Teaching Methods Are Used?

Most students will use piano instruction methods from Alfred Music Publishing -- the #1 Music Education publisher since 1922.  The very earliest beginners (pre-school and Kindergarten age) learn from the award-winning Music for Little Mozarts series.  From there, students will progress through Alfred's Premier Piano Course, with supplements from time-honored resources such as Czerney, Hannon, and other skill builders, influenced by rigorous international standards.  Additionally, advanced students will study classical and contemporary music.  See our Programs

 

Teaching Technology

New in 2017 is the custom-designed digital piano with "PianoTeq" sound module and "Hauptwerk" organ software ... (read more about this.)

The studio computer is loaded with Audacity recording software that allows recording live tracks through a small mixing board using direct connections and microphones.  Students can create their own music utilizing MuseScore notation software, as well as print on color or laser printers.  There is also a 65-inch TV for instructional display and videos.  Additionally, I have just completed a custom 7.2 audio system with Dolby Atmos Surround Sound for listening to music and watching videos on a 58" hi-definition screen with realistic "theater" sound quality.  

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