Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

I have a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education (K-6) + additional credits.

Job Title:

Piano Instructor

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:

Piano Lesson Instruction - Waukesha

# of Years with White House:

7 years

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

Visiting with family and friends, cooking, researching topics of personal interest, staying as active as possible, and walking outdoors.

Favorite band/musical group:

I love 80's music! Also 70's and some 90's pop hits. I also have some modern favorites but there's nothing like the 80's!

Teaching/Professional Experience:

I had my 1st piano student at 18. Since then I have successfully maintained a small to large studio over the past 18 years. I taught at Music Dynamics of Wales before joining WHM in 2011.

Music Styles You're Familiar With:

Classical forms from the 4 periods of music history is my forte, although I will teach some popular music.

Teaching Methods:

I use almost entirely Faber Methods, but will incorporate Bastien and Alfred if/as needed.

Expectations of Students:

I still believe in the old saying "Practice makes perfect." But even if a student doesn't have time for "Practice makes perfect," there is such a thing as "Practice makes good" or even "Practice makes ok," if they've had  busy week. My expectation for my students is that their practice falls within a certain average range of time per week for their current level and that they have access to an instrument to make this happen.

Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know:

I'm all for open lines of communication and teamwork. If there is ever a sudden or planned temporary but complete obstacle to practice, this can be worked around-provided that the obstacle is not indefinitely permanent.

Professional Experience/ Education

Drummer with The Official Drumline of the Milwaukee Bucks: Bucks Beats! (Third year) Written, Recorded, and Performed with many different bands such as: Good Batch, Before Tomorrow Dawns, The Friend Zone, Within Our Eyes, Answer For An Arrow, Overrated, Challenger & Joan Killed Wishbone! Winner of Battle of the Band competitions with “Overrated” in 2013 and again with “Good Batch” in 2017! Studied at UW-Whitewater; Bachelor of the Arts in Communication: Electronic Media with a Liberal Arts and Music Minor.

Teaching Experience

Guitar Stars Instructor at After School Enrichments and Chess Scholars

Private Lessons for Drum Set and Guitar

New To White House of Music! Accepting all skill-levels / all ages!

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

I am open to playing and listening to most genres of music, but am most accomplished with hard rock and metal. In my experience I have learned that it’s good to have a variety in order to broaden your horizons. For example, I’m currently in a reggae/acoustic project called “Good Batch” in which I play all kinds of different world percussion and whatever I can get my hands on.  On the other hand, I have been in multiple rock/metal bands, written and played original songs, and it is a very fun and challenging style to perform or cover! Through my musical career, starting from Watertown Middle and High School, to the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, I have a great deal of experience with theory, classical, ensemble, and marching band sheet music. My favorite radio stations are: 94.1 JJO, 102.9 The Hog, and 102.1 FM!

Teaching Methods

Keeping time is vital in any style of music. For drums, you are the pulse, the heartbeat, and the conductor, so there’s no better method than practicing keeping time. Use a metronome, click track, or even a ticking clock (60 bpm) to find the pulse of the music.  When reading sheet music it is important to make the music come to life. Use the tools you have and all of your brainpower to make the music you play enjoyable to yourself and your audience. Dynamics, melody, and tempo are the three most important variables to me, in drums and percussion. Whether you’re playing a recital piece in front of judges, playing a sold-out stadium for thousands of fans, or just practicing at home by yourself, you always need to practice how you perform.

Expectations of Students

Get your work done. Have fun. Practice. Set goals.

What I Want My Students To Know

I recommend learning from others, whether that be private lessons, online videos, or learning new songs from a new book. Do not get discouraged by other people and their playing abilities. There are always going to be better musicians than you, and that’s life. Worry about your own progression and individual improvement, and try and make daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly goals. Practicing on your own can either be a chore, or you can make it fun! You cannot expect the music to play itself, that’s why we all have to practice to improve our performance. I would love to share my knowledge and experiences and work with others to help guide them to better themselves in music for life!

Favorite Musical Group

Avenged Sevenfold

Professional Experience

Registered Music Therapist-able to adapt piano to special needs, Church Musician

Teaching Experience

• Private piano lessons 1983-present, age 4 and up
• Kindermusik infant-age 7

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Wide range – try to incorporate a variety of styles for a well rounded education

Teaching Methods

Alfred, Hal Leonard, Faber & Faber

Expectations of Students

Practice on a regular basis, at least 4-5 times a week even if for 10 minutes.

What I Want My Students To Know

I have a strong faith which drives my actions and morals.

Professional Experience

Solo playing for weddings and other events since 1980’ish
String quartet and chamber ensembles since 1982’ish
Chicago Civic Orchestra, principal second violinist 1985-1987

Tours:

• Midwest Chamber Orchestra – European Tour
• South Korean Children’s Choir – S Korean Tour

Recordings:

• Eric Kinkel, Antique Spirits
• World Class Noise, The Unforseeable Future
• The Wickershams, Train on Time
• Hillbilly Winos, Fred Eaglesmith: A Tribute
• YouTube: I believe I’m on there from various gigs

Teaching Experience

Violin & piano private lessons since early 1980’s

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

While classically trained on violin and piano, I play and enjoy many styles on violin/fiddle including classical, baroque, country, folk, rock, blues, and musicals.

Teaching Methods

Whatever best suits student’s interest, learning style, and level. I like to incorporate music of student’s choice as ability allows. 
Typically includes: Violin – combination of Suzuki, Mark O’Connor, classical repertoire, plus technique

Expectations of Students

I enjoy students who put effort into learning the fundamentals of their instrument so that we may progress. “Treading water” due to lack of interest or practicing drives all involved nutsy.

What I Want My Students To Know

I share a home with my husband, young daughter, cats, and a variety of animals. I was the fiddle player with The Wickershams in Madison and Hillbilly Winos based in Chicago area.
When not involved with music & family, I’m with animals. I’m a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and founder of Atagahi Wildlife Haven. I’m also a Certified Veterinary Technician and Veterinary Technician Specialist (Behavior) with a feline behavior consultation business called Feline Fine Again.

Education and Previous Work

Bachelor of Arts Degree, Mount Mary College, Milwaukee, 1996— Major: English.

Bachelor of Arts Degree, Carthage College, Kenosha, WI, 1986— Major:Music, Minor: History.

Member Sigma Alpha Iota - Honorary Music Fraternity

Member Phi Alpha Theta - Honorary History Fraternity

Winner of Sigma Alpha Iota College Honor Award

Teaching Experience

Private Teacher - 3 years

White House of Music Instructor - 22 years

Professional experience as accompanist and church musician

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical, folk, and contemporary

Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught

Primary Method - Alfred's Premier Piano Course

Alternative Methods - Piano Adventures (Faber), and Hal Leonard

Focus on classical technique. Popular music, jazz and blues styles are taught using written sheet music.

Expectations of Students

Students should commit to a consistent practice routine in order to achieve results. Students will be expected to memorize recital pieces and perform in two recitals each year. Students are required to keep fingernails short in order to play with the proper hand position and technique.

What I Want My Students To Know

I want my students to know how to read music. I want my students to know how to express themselves through music. I want my students to know the basics of music theory and music history

Favorite band/musical group

Classical composers: J.S. Bach and Frederic Chopin

I'm an avid listener of world music and an '80s new wave fan

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job

I enjoy the "aha" moment when a student masters a new skill. I enjoy teaching pieces that a student has always wanted to learn. I enjoy the smile on a student's face after a great performance. I enjoy listening to my students' stories!

Hobbies Outside of Work

Member Wisconsin Writes Association

Drama Movies Editor at Bellaonline.com

Professional Experience

• Taught music in elementary schools: Herman Consolidated K-8 School, Hustisford Elementary
• Accompany High School Musicals: Mayville Elementary, Saylesville Elementary, St. Mary Mayville Catholic K-8, Theresa-Lomira Catholic K-8.
• Church organist and choir director for St. Mary's in Mayville for years. The past 21 years I have been working at St. Mark Episcopal in Beaver Dam, as the organist, and several years as the choir director.
• Wedding organist for years as well as accompany solo-ensembles. Since 2005, I do substitute teaching for West Bend Public Schools.

Teaching Experience

In the past, I taught piano lessons at our home and students participated in piano spring auditions. I have been employed as a piano instructor at West Bend White House of Music since 2005. My students' ages range from five years to 80 years.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

I have worked with all kinds of music styles over the years.

Teaching Methods

I use piano method books that apply to a student's background, age, knowledge, and goals. Through the interview we discuss student goals and background. I use Bastien, Alfred Premier, Noona mostly.

Expectations of Students

I expect them to practice almost daily at home, repeat an assigned section 5 times a day, review one old song daily, bring materials to the lesson and always have three songs to share when someone asks for music.

Education 

BA in Music from Iowa State University

Member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity of America 

Hobbies Outside of Work

Reading comic books, playing video games with friends, Dungeons and Dragons

Favorite Band or Musical Group

Nujabes Robert Glaspur Experiment, Chris Potter Underground, Snarky Puppy, Dave Matthews Band, Chicago, Earth Wind & Fire, Common. Noname, Tyler the Creator

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

Working with other passionate musicians and helping each student find their own personal sound

Teaching Experience

• 5 Years Private Teaching Experience
• 4+ years of private saxophone teaching and guest clinician with Des Moines Public Schools
• Mumford's; a punk rock band based in Ames, IA from 2015-2017
• Spiders from Milwaukee; a David Bowie cover band 2017-Present
• Various Small Fires; an R&B/Soul band based in Waukesha - 2018
• Pit Musician with Johnson Creek Public Schools for their productions of Annie and Legally Blonde

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Jazz, hip hop, classical, latin, and rock

Teaching Methods

Essential Elements, Rubank Methods, Tradition of Excellence, Standard of Excellence

Styles/Genres Taught

Classical, Jazz, Latin, Rock

Expectation of Students

Come to lessons having practiced and ready to learn.

What I Want My Students to Know

That I will do everything I can to help them reach their goals.

Store Locations At Which I Teach:

Germantown and Watertown

Professional Experience

Recorded and/or performed with prominent Midwestern artists including True Heart Susie, Upside Groove Coalition, Reilly, the Us Project, the Scott Berendt Band, Heads With Wings (Morphine Tribute), Shattered (Rolling Stones Tribute), Mudflap, WKLH radios Kevin Brandt, Honkeytonkitis, Bad Medicine, No Strings Attached, Jennifer Lee, the Psycobunnies, Gabriel Sanchez's Prince Experience (Prince Tribute), Phil Norby, Xeno from Bad Boy, 3 Peace, Michael Sean's Affair, Siren, Rachel Trapp, Steve Grimm, Rick Holmes, Annie B., Marcell Guyton, The National Dance Institute, 9 Year Old Blues Prodigy "T-man", the Kettle Moraine Symphony Orchestra, Sweet Polly, and many, many others. 

Opened for International recording artists Soul Asylum, Collective Soul, Styx, Steven Adlers Appetite, Vince Neil of Motley Crue, War, Night Ranger, Cracker, Matisyahoo, Flogging Molly, Dada, Third Eye Blind, Tito Jackson, and countless others.

National and International performance experience including the Whiskey A Go Go and the House of Blues in Hollywood, CA; the Metro, Double Door, and House of Blues in Chicago; the Taste of Minnesota, Milwaukees Summerfest, Irishfest, Bastille Days, Festa Italiana; the Bite of Seattle; and countless other festivals and clubs....

Served as Band Director for the Milwaukee Rock Theater from 2000 to 2005.

Teaching Experience

Instructor at White House of Music since 2007. Private Lesson Instructor since 1999

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Rock, Jazz, Blues, R&B, Symphonic, and Ethnic/World music (Especially Celtic and Latin).

Teaching Methods

• For beginning Snare drum - "Alfred's Drum Method" 
  
• For beginning Bells - "Standard of Excellence" 
  
• For beginning Drum Set - "Basic Rock Beats" by Joel Rothman 
  
• For intermediate and advanced Drum Set - "Killer Fillers" and "1001 Drum Grooves"

Expectations of Students

Practice, Practice, Practice! Also, for each student to continually self-evaluate their grip, posture, tempo, and stroke while practicing. I love it when students ask tons and tons of questions – this is the best way to learn, and the way to make best use of having an instructor.

What I Want My Students To Know

Education and Previous Work

Bachelor of Music Education

Hobbies Outside of Work

Reading and spending time with family

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

I like one-on-one interactions with my students. I like to see them progress and gain confidence over time!

Teaching Experience

I've taught for over 15 years at White House of Music. I direct the choir and orchestra at my church and played first trumpet in Knightwind Ensemble for about ten years. I also freelance in big bands and for local musical theater.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical, jazz, marching band, and musical theater

Teaching Methods

Standard of Excellence, Essential Elements for younger students, Arban, Clarke, Rubank, and Duets for older students.

Expectations of Students

I want my students to learn how to make the best sound they can. Once they can produce a good sound, it makes lots of other things easier. I also focus a lot on reading music completely and accurately.

What I Want My Students To Know

My lessons are usually fact-paced and informal. A student will get out as much as they put in... hard work always pays off.

Professional Experience

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee- Wind Ensemble 
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee-Symphony Orchestra
Eastwinds Chamber Ensemble
Played concerts at retirement homes and various functions in the Milwaukee area 
Artists in Residence at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church
Wildacres Flute Retreat -2008
Performed in masterclasses with Goran Marcusson and Stephen Preston 
Oberlin Flute Institute-Summer 2009
Attended classes with Michel Debost and Kathleen Chastain
Menomonee Falls Symphony Orchestra Third Flute and Piccolo-2010-present

Teaching Experience

My current position is K4 through 5th grade general music at Milwaukee Spanish Immersion School. Prior to that, I taught in several private schools for 4 years.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

I am most familiar with flute solos and methods. I also enjoy singing, playing and listening to rock, pop, and Broadway.

Teaching Methods

I am a huge believer in Patricia George’s method books. The majority of my students are using Flute 101 and Flute 102.

Expectations of Students

My students are expected to be receptive to feedback, to have needed materials for lessons, and to be willing to try new and challenging activities.

What I Want My Students To Know

I love seeing the growth my students achieve in lessons!

Professional Experience

Soloist and accompanist in church and accompanied in dramatic productions

Teaching Experience

• 1983-1985 Elementary Teacher Gr.4-7 in Florida plus piano students
• 1985-1988 Elementary Teacher K4, K5 in Michigan
• 1988-1997 Elementary Teacher 1st, 4th, 5th in Guam plus piano students
• 1997-2003 Elementary Teacher 6th in Wisconsin plus piano students

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical and sacred

Teaching Methods

It depends on the individual student. I like to use the series that best suits their personality. I would like to utilize theory lessons, flashcards, and games to reinforce concepts.

Expectations of Students

To practice and come prepared for the lesson and to come to the lesson ready to learn.

What I Want My Students To Know

I love to play the piano! I started taking lessons at the age of 5 and took 16 years of lessons. I play mostly for church and my own enjoyment now, but have in the past played for weddings, choirs, and dramatic productions. My youngest student was 4 and my oldest student was an adult. There have been many students of many ages in between.

Professional Experience

I've been a performing musician in Milwaukee for over 10 years both in the rock scene and jazz scene.

Teaching Experience

I've been a private studio teacher for 2 years at my home in Menomonee Falls and worked with students of varying ages (8-50).

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Jazz, Rock, Metal, and Classical

Teaching Methods

There are a couple of Guitar Method Books published by Hal Leonard (Rhythm Guitar: The Complete Guide, and Music Reading for Guitar) that I've utilized. I have also used A Modern Method for Guitar by William Leavitt.

Expectations of Students

I expect my students to always try their best, practice, and enjoy the music they make.

What I Want My Students To Know

I want to be as accessible and available as possible for my students if they need anything, and I will do my best to make sure they get it.

Professional Experience

Played with many local orchestras: Concord Chamber Orchestra, Milwaukee Catholic Orchestra, Rochester Symphony, and LaCrosse Symphony

Teaching Experience

• Private Music Instructor from 1983 to present (lessons out of my home)
• White House of Music, West Bend 2005 to present 
• Academy of Music, Menomonee Falls 1996 to 2000

Education

• Bachelor's Degree from UW-Eau Claire in Violin and Viola performance

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

I mostly teach Classical, but have taught fiddle and country styles to kids and adults.

Teaching Methods

Expectations of Students

Each student is taught differently and learns at different levels, so I would have different expectations for each student.

What I Want My Students To Know

I make an effort to approach each student as a unique and promising artist, help students set individual goals, then plan and prepare lesson materials tailored for what they intend to achieve.

Favorite band/musical group

Love Pentatonix

What you enjoy most about your job:

Seeing my students mature and grow as musicians. 

Education/Certifications/Memberships

Degree in Music Theory from UW-Milwaukee

Certified by the State of Wisconsin as a recreation technician

Have continued to take piano lessons on and off after college

Member of the State Board of the Wisconsin Federation of Music Club

Hobbies Outside of Work

Cooking, sewing, gardening, antique collecting, and framing

Favorite Band/Musical Group

Frog Water

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

Working with all the different personalities and figuring out what makes the light go on for each person.

Teaching Experience

Teaching piano for 25+ years - started teaching at home15 years ago.

Taught general music at two different grade schools.

Have directed several different church choirs.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Most - classical including baroque, romantic, jazz

Teaching Methods

Piano Adventures by Faber is my favorite.

Expectations of Students

That they come to lessons prepared and with all their materials each week. If the student didn't understand something, that they make a note of it so we can clarify. Be honest.

Anything Else I Want My Students To Know

Piano is hard work - there is no way around it. However, so is anything in life worth doing well. In sports there are practices so you get better at that specific sport, and in piano you practice so you get better at playing not only piano pieces, but technique and theory on the way music works as well. Piano only seems more difficult because you have to motivate yourself to practice rather than having a coach tell you what to do and how long to do it. Music will be with you your entire life, long after you can play soccer or volleyball or basketball, so it is worth every minute you work at becoming a better player. Play away!

Education

High School Diploma (Home-schooled)

Bachelor of Arts in Bible and Music (Baptist College of Ministry)

Violin and viola Teacher's Retreat (Indiana University, Bloomington, IN)

• Instruction in violin pedagogy

1st place in Wisconsin Association of Christian Schools for classical violin solo (2008)

Completed 155 Observation Hours

Completed 130 violin teaching hours in college

Studied violin with Suzanne Ignazak, Jamie Hofman, and Elizabeth Zemp

Fulfilled intensive violin pedagogy course requirements (2010-2013)

Five years teaching experience and student teaching in college

Professional Experience

Won competition and performed with Falls Baptist Chamber Strings in Midwest Clinic (2010)

Won an Honorable Mention for Violin solo in the McDowell Club

Teaching Experience

Styles/Genres Taught:

Classical and Sacred

Teaching Methods

Suzuki and supplementary materials

Expectations of Students

What I Want My Students To Know

Learning an instrument is like learning anything else. It takes work, but it is well worth it!

Favorite band/musical group

Orpheus Chamber Orchestra

Education:

• Rockford Auburn High School - Creative Performing Arts Programming - 2015
• University of Evansville - BM in Music Performance - 2019
• University of Wisconsin Milwaukee - MM in Performance (current)

Professional/Teaching Experience:

• Studio flute teacher from fall 2018 to spring 2019 at H&H Tri-state music store in Evansville, IN
• Flute assistant at the Wesley Shepard Summer Music Camp (Evansville, IN) from 2017-2019

Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught:

A mix of traditional and modern approaches to playing flute. Generally I teach styles and genres ranging from solo to ensemble repertoire acreoos all periods of music.

Expectations of Students:

To come prepared, have drive, an open mind, and that they have fun while learning about flute.

What I Want My Students to Know:

Everyone starts somewhere and with hard work and passion, you can get to where you want to be.

Favorite Band/Musical Group:

Lindsey Stirling, Evanescence, and Amalee

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:

Getting to know my students as more than just flutists and seeing their growth.

Hobbies Outside of Work

Reading fantasy fiction, playing video games, enjoying coffee and tea, cooking/baking, watching cartoons/anime

Professional Experience

I currently play guitar in a band called Pangaea. We play shows around the midwest and occasionally travel for longer, 7-10 day runs. We are a Progressive Metal band based out of Madison.

Teaching Experience

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Since I play in a Progressive Metal band, I am most familiar with heavier styles of music (rock, metal…etc). However I played saxophone in jazz bands from Middle School through my sophomore year of college. So I am no stranger to jazz music and also studied a little jazz guitar in my guitar lessons when I was younger. I’m also familiar and comfortable with teaching blues, pop, country, and classical.

Teaching Methods

I’m a fan of the Hal Leonard Guitar Method. I like how they do a great job of teaching you notes and chords in different positions but also go over some theory and teach you how to read notation. Then these concepts are used in musical examples so you can see them applied in a non-technical exercise. The way they progress in difficulty throughout the books works for most students and the text clearly explains new concepts.

Expectations of Students

I expect my students to come prepared to each lesson. This means he/she worked on the assigned material and that they bring in the tools they need for the lesson (instrument, sheet music…etc). Another part of being prepared means they are putting in the appropriate amount of time with the instrument between lessons.

Professional Experience

Luther Manor Nursing Home-assisted and organized programming and music for the elderly

Teaching Experience

• 25 years-Waukesha Public Schools-aided children with learning difficulties
• Church-Superintendent

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

New age-classical

Teaching Methods

CAP, Faber & Faber, have had experience with some others

Expectations of Students

To do homework and practice

What I Want My Students To Know

I’m very aware of different learning styles and try to adapt the lessons accordingly.

Professional Experience

Brass Bell Music Store (2016) - currently teach private violin lessons from beginner to intermediate levels

Teaching Experience

Falls Baptist Music School 2013-2016, taught private lessons as well as group lessons with students ranging from beginner to advanced (ages 3-17), assisted in several summer music camps (ages 4-25) Wisconsin International Academy 2015-2016, assisted in organizing a small music program, taught private and group lessons to Chinese high school students.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Violin and Viola: Classical, Sacred and Ear training

Piano: Classical, Sacred (Hymn playing)

Teaching Methods

I use mainly Suzuki, but supplement with books such as the Bonnie Blue Book, Fiddle Rhythms/Magic, and other method books such as the Royal Conservatory, Canadian Series, and Barber. Piano: I use my own ear training, scales, and warm ups, and use the Alfred Series for pieces. Once the student has completed the Alfred books, I use a variety of popular advanced classical pieces.

Expectations of Students

Students should come to a lesson on time with their music, instrument, and practice chart/notebook. They should be fully prepared to perform their goals assigned the previous week, and be ready for helpful tips and comments given by the teacher. After receiving the new assignments, they should go home and practice as many days as possible focusing on completing each daily goal.

What I Want My Students To Know

I believe that it is important for students to be able to memorize a piece and perform it for an audience. Not only does this bring closure to a given piece, but it also develops confidence of their ability. When I feel that several students have reached the level of mastery in a piece I will arrange a recital for them to participate in.

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Sacred Music at Baptist College of Ministry

Professional Workshop for Violin and Viola Teachers - Indiana University

Professional Experience

I completed two classical violin recitals as part of my college program; most of my other musical performances occurred through ensembles and small orchestras. I have accompanied WSMA and Federation competitions.

Hobbies Outside of Work

Sewing, textiles, and reading

Favorite Band/Musical Group

Any symphony orchestra

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

Working with people of all ages and watching them grow

Teaching Experience

Five years part time at Falls Baptist String Program

Nine years on and off coaching and accompanying for WSMA

2014 - Present at White House of Music

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

I specialize in classical and sacred music.

Teaching Methods

Strings - Suzuki with supplemental repertoire

Piano - Bastien with supplemental repertoire

Expectations of Students

Come prepared with your music and notebook ready to learn

What I Want My Students To Know

Bring your musical ideas, questions, and dreams. Come ready to explore and grow!

Teaching Experience

• Frank Lloyd Wright Middle School (High School Internship) – 1990-1991- taught drummers in band and orchestra as an internship.
• West Allis Central High School – 1991 thru 1992 – Helped teach High School drummers in drum line as well as their Jazz program. Prepared students for State Competitions at UW White Water.
• MATC (Milwaukee) – 1993 and 1994 – helped develop curriculum and instructed world music program. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• MATC (Milwaukee) – March 1994 – taught lesson to Professor (Jack Grassel) on how to integrate conga tones into his guitar, in the style of Cuban influenced rhythms.
• Clinics at MATC (Milwaukee) – 1997 to present – instructed and educated about different world cultures in music to college students. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• White House of Music – 1997 – present – taught students on all styles of drumming, ages 7 to elderly. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• River Valley High School (Spring Green Wi.) – 1998 – taught band students about world music and world cultures. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• MATC (Milwuakee) – March 7th 1997 and March 25th 1998 - Created and directed World Music Ensemble that performed for International Ethnic Fest XV. Students learned about World Drumming and Performance Techniques. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Clinic at UW La Crosse – 1998 – taught students technique and traditional world rhythms for the rhythm section in their jazz program.
• La Crosse Central High School – 1998 – Taught 30 students involved in an At-Risk program about world drumming as well as performing with the group. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Guitar Center (Kansas City KS) – 1999 – instructed students on drums/percussion.
• Crittendon Center (Correctional Facility)(Kansas City KS) – March 2000 – taught drumming to at-risk teen students. Taught music as a positive and constructive outlet to “In-House” teens.
• Clinics at Running Rebels Program (Milwaukee) – August 19, 2000 – educated group on world music and how music can benefit any situation in life. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Mars Music (Milwaukee) – 2000 and 2001- taught students all styles of drumming and gave several clinics on world percussion in their store. In addition, also wrote articles on world drumming in their monthly “Teacher’s Insider” magazine.
• Family Music Center – 2000 and 2001 – taught students all styles of drumming, ages from 8yrs and older.
• Clinics at Cardinal Stritch Univercity – 9/12/2001, 10/312001, 11/7/2001 – Was hired to teach classes about West African Music and Culture, Cuban Music and Culture, Brazilian Music and Culture. These classes included handouts from my own personal collection of materials as well as hands-on experience for the students and staff. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Cardinal Stritch University – 2005 – Substitute teacher for Cardinal Stritch Jazz Band (3 to 4 times). Helped direct and teach fellow college students (the curriculum was based on world rhythms) for this class.
• Saint Monica’s School – January 25, 2001- Implemented a clinic to grade school students (K-8th grade) on West African Drums, and Caribbean Percussion. This included a hands-on playing experience for students. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Merton and Swallow Middle Schools – summer 2004 to present- Developed several classes with focus in World music and drumming using story telling, creating props, plays, and drumming performances. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Clinic at Byron Kilbourn School – March, 2004 – Instructed students about world music and world drumming with an opportunity to play as a group (team building skills thru music). Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Clinic at Hartford Music Store - 2005 and 2006 – Developed clinics in a Drum Circle/Drumming Community approach. Taught basic hand technique, and traditional rhythms from throughout the world.
• Clinic at Orchard Lane Grade School – May 2004 to Present – Instructed students on world music and world rhythms using drums with a hands-on experience. Used drums from my own personal collection as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Saint Monica’s School – 2002 thru 2005 – taught Band and Orchestra curriculum (Director of band from 2002 – 2005), taught all students technique on all woodwind, brass, and percussion. Organized meetings with parents and school principal, organized lessons, picked music according to band/orchestra (levels 1/2 to 2), as well as Band and Orchestra Concerts. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Clinic at Kettle Moraine High School – September 2004 – Instructed high school band students on proper techniques, reading (Western and Non-Western styles), functionality as a percussion group, rhythmic sensibility and rhythmic understanding, on ALL general percussion instruments (Western and Non-Western Instruments).
• Drum Instructor for drum line at Kettle Moraine High School – 2004 thru 2006 - Instructed students (30 drum students plus pit percussion) on technique, reading, marching skills and overall helped develop a “drum culture” in their school as well as wrote several original features that students performed (New Marching Cadence, New Drum Line Features (with choreographs),New Band Features, World Percussion Features, Composed original Mallet Percussion Features, and many, others).
• Jazz 2 Director for Kettle Moraine High School - 2004 thru 2006 – Taught students (brass, woodwind, and rhythm sections) curriculum on Jazz playing, picked pieces for performance according to skill level (mostly levels 3 to 4), reading skills, improvisation skills, intonation, helped vocalist with reading, dictation, improvisation (scat singing) and performance techniques (microphone, stage presence, etc.), was in charge of bringing in guest musician speakers, prepared students for WSMA (class B material)(received 1’s in all years). Directed concerts, and other special events for Jazz 2 (May 2nd, 2004, May 1st, 2005, and many, many other “in school” performances as well as outside of school performances). Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Chaperone/Drum Instructor for Kettle Moraine High School Band Trip to Washington D.C. – May 28th thru May 31st, 2004 – Helped organize and label all drum equipment (before, during, and after) for trip (2004 World War II Memorial Dedication Parade), had chaperone duties (making sure students followed itinerary, in charge of head count on our bus, enforcing curfew, overall safety of students at all times), marched with students (drum line) in parade.
• Chaperone/ Drum Instructor for Kettle Moraine High School Band Trip to UW Stevens Point and Kalahari Resort – April 7th, 2006 thru April 9th, 2006 – Same responsibilities as above mentioned trip (with minimal percussion).
• Clinic for Drummers for Jesus – June 6th, 2005 – Instructed technique on hand percussion, the role of a percussionist in any setting and along with Q and A.
• Clinic for White Rock Elementary – May, 2005 – Provided a hands-on experience to students who learned about West African Drumming and West African Culture. Used drums from my own personal collection, as well as masks and other items from throughout the world.
• Clinics at various Schools in the Milwaukee/Waukesha area – 1993 to Present – Implemented Clinics on World Music and World Percussion to several schools (can’t recall all of them and have lost paper trail over the years). The age range was from pre-K to High School.
• Private Instructor – Private Instruction for students at my home studio. Students learn Wisconsin state standards in music. I integrate drums from my own personal collection, and other items from throughout the world. In addition, I teach beginning studio engineering to students. This includes curriculum that consists of knowledge with microphones, mixing boards, how to mic different instruments, study of acoustics, how to use EQ, how to utilize your DAW to it’s full potential, mixing and recording different musical groups, future contacts and real world experience (for those students who have equipment of their own), and much more.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

All styles

Teaching Methods

ALFRED (Snare Bk 1 2)(Drumset)(Practical Theory Complete), (Personal Handouts for Composition styles and ideas), Garwoud Whalley Series, Stick Control, Musicians Guide to Polyrhythms, The Drummer’s Cook Book, Modern School for Xylophone Marimba Vibraphone, Four Mallet Marimba Playing, Real Books 1 2 and 3, Elements of the Jazz Language, Complete Method for Improvisation, Essential Styles for the Drummer and Bassist, The Wood Shedding Source Book, Career Opportunities in The Music Industry, 101 Montunos, Tabla (Donald Robertson), The Music of Santeria, Brazilian Rhythms for Drumset, Brazilian Percussion and Drum Set, The Essence of Afro-Cuban Percussion and Drum Set, African Guitar Styles, African Percussion (The Djembe), West African Rhythms for Drumset, African Rhythm and Sensibility (Miller Chernoff), and other world percussion methods (to many to mention), handouts from personal collection, as well as rhythms from my own original method book “Playing Drum set with Percussion” that is currently in works. Also in the works “The Complete World Instrument Encyclopedia” (20 years of research).

Expectations of Students

I do speak and understand some basic Spanish (Currently studying more) as well as a little Korean, and Mandarin (Currently studying more)

I also teach sound engineering, and recording techniques for drummers

I have taught several students with physical and learning disabilities

I bring a world percussion instrument and other cultural items to the lessons each week to show (hands on experience) and share with students (I currently have over 360 instruments of my own personal collection from throughout the world). In addition, I will sometimes make a listening C.D. for students so they can hear how the instruments sound and are traditionally played. I also do this with styles of music. 

I can truly say that I listen to, and respect All styles of music anything from, Latin American, Rock, SCREAMO, DOOM, Funk, Jazz, Country, Opera, Renaissance Music, Classical, Romantic, Musicals, World Music, and any other creative musical style out there. 

I am, and always will be a Life-Long Learner. I study and practice (4 hrs/day) plus record current projects in my studio and also perform in public. I choose to do this to better my trade and skills as a teacher, musician and as a person. 

I am currently writing two books (Playing Drums with Percussion) and an “up to date” Encyclopedia of World Instruments (20 yrs of research)

I have available several C.D.s that I have performed on as well as my own musics, and are available upon request.

What I Want My Students To Know

Students who are active in school music programs participate in WSMA solo/ensemble festival for piano solos. I have had students participate in the regional Chopin competition at Polish Fest. One student reached finals for two successive years and won 3rd prize in the Junior Division.

Professional Experience

• 1984-1993 - bass guitar, vocals for 'Badger Crew' (variety band)
• 1993-1996 - drums, vocals for 'Flying Colors' (rock/show band)
• 1997-2000 - drums, percussion for 'Exhibit A' (festival band)
• 2001-2003 - drums, lead guitar, vocals for 'Titletown' (festival band)
• 2003-2008 - bass guitar, vocals, lead guitar for 'Mark Pannier and the BB's;' (festival band)

Teaching Experience

• 1998-2003 - G.W.Music (instructor of above instruments)
• 2003-present - White house of music (same)
• 2007-present - UW Washington Co. (professor of guitar studies classical, jazz)

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

All

Teaching Methods

Hal Leonard, Berklee College Press, Benward, Latarski, Mel Bay, Faber, etc.

Expectations of Students

20 minutes practice daily and simply to 'do your best' at everything, including music.

What I Want My Students To Know

I also am a singer/songwriter, music arranger, producer and recording engineer at 'Two Dog Sound Studios' with an album due for release soon!

Professional Experience

Performance credits include- (Pontius Pilate) Jesus Christ Superstar, (Lun Tha) The King and I, (Levie) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, (Adam) Children of Eden, (Adam) The Apple Tree, (Steve) Hair, (Perchik) Fiddler on the Roof, and (Papagano) in Mozart’s opera The Magic Flute.

Directing credits include- Bye Bye Birdie, The King and I, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The Sound of Music, and Main Street Song & Dance Troupe.

Teaching Experience

I have been teaching voice for the last 12 years here in southeastern WI. I’ve worked with students ranging in age from 9-50. Many of my high school students have gone on and majored in Musical Theatre, Music Education, and Opera at the top music schools in the nation. Several of my former students have gone on to Hollywood and Broadway.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Musical Theatre and Opera

Teaching Methods

All styles of music are welcome. Through good use of breath support and a strong vocal technique anything is possible.

Expectations of Students

Do their best and never give up- that is all I ask for.

Education

Minor in Music in College

Professional/Teaching Experience

Have taught piano for 35 years

• 5 privately
• 30 at the store

Have done piano accompaniment and solo voice at my church for 40 years

Favorite Band or Musical Group

I am a big Gershwin fan. I admire his music and especially his improvisation abilities. My classical piano favorites are Chopin, Liszt, Sibelius, and Brahms.

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

Teaching students of all ages. Each student, no matter their age, brings something different to their lesson. Some are great with rhythms, others have a good ear for pitch and harmony. When recital comes around, I realize all the hard work they have put in preparing their songs!

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Most of my training was in classical, but I'm familiar with jazz and pop, too.

Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught

I use mostly Alfred and Faber teaching series but am open to other series as well. My background is mostly classical but I teach my students a variety of styles including jazz, pop, and broadway tunes.

Expectations of Students

I expect my students to practice consistently and have them also learn basic music theory

What I Want My Students To Know

I want my students to have experience in note reading and sight reading, scales and chord progressions, and to not just "play notes" but take it to the next level so those notes convey the personality of the piece by paying attention to phrasing and dynamics.

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job

I enjoy seeing the enjoyment on my students' faces when they have put their best efforts into preparing a challenging song and have succeeded in creating something special.

Hobbies Outside of Work

I love to read and garden.

Teaching Experience

Music Styles/Genres Taught

Teaching Methods

It varies. I mostly stick to the classic “Mel Bay” style beginner books, regardless of the author. With more advanced students, one thing I do is encourage them to bring in music they want to play. I will figure it out for them and then I analyze the song (techniques used, scales used, rhythm, phrasing, etc.) which leads to more in-depth lessons about all of the above. Basically, my teaching methods adjust per the student.

Expectations of Students

What I Want My Students To Know

Professional Experience

Currently Saxophonist with Spider George & The Web and the George Busateri Orchestra pit band at Potawatomi Northern Lights Theater. Recent appearances with Superband, Clave y Afinque, and North Coast Orchestra. Appeared with National recording group, Matrix in Concert, Thrasher Opera House and Fox Jazz Festival – Green Lake, WI 2009. 

MEMBER, MATRIX IX – National Touring/Recording Jazz Nonet 1976 - 1979 

Woodwind Specialist, soloist, clinician, recording artist. Matrix appeared in concert with Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, MSO. Also performanced with MSO, Tony Bennett, The Temptations. 

RECORDINGS

• Warner Brothers Records – Wizard * 1977, Tale of the Whale* 1978, (* Re-released on Wounded Bird Records)
• Pablo records – Harvest 1979
• Summit Records – Proud Flesh 2001

Teaching Experience

• Brass Bell, Woodwinds, 6th grade – Adult.
• Clinician – woodwind workshops with HS/College age students while touring with Recording Group Matrix, 1977 – 1980.
• Private Saxophone instruction – Adult 1982 – 1989.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Jazz, Blues, and POP primarily, however also Classical in that this is the path to playing other styles and was my focus into college where I began expanding into the other styles.

Teaching Methods

I will work with method books being used in the local schools to which my students belong. My preference is to use the “Foundation Series” (Carl Fischer- Ben Vereecken/Saxophone, Ernest Wagner/Flute, CE Reinecke/Clarinet or Jack Snavely Clarinet Method Vols 1 & 2).

Expectations of Students

Bring something new to each lesson with the assignment you were given to work on. I expect consistent daily practice of at least 30 minutes at or around the same time and require my students to complete a simple calendar “log” that charts their practice history. 

It is important to rest, or take breaks which I discuss with each student to refresh their muscles and minds. I want to know where they practice to be sure the environment is a good one for their practicing.

1. Name: Joy Anna Gillmore 

2. Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

Have taken violin lessons for fifteen years, and piano lessons for nine years. Have completed two semesters of music pedagogy. Two-time winer of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Bach Double Competition. Received Honorary Mention in the Baird Stars of Tomorrow Competition in 2016 and performed side-by-side with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Am currently involved in the Falls Baptist Music School Chamber Strings and the Falls Baptist Music School Symphony Orchestra.

3. Job Title: Instrumental Instructor

4. Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location: Violin Teaching and some Piano teaching at White House of Music in Waukesha. 

5. # of Years with White House: 2 months 

6. Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work: Sewing, Volleyball, Hair styling, Playing my instruments, and traveling with my family.

7. Favorite band/musical group: The Chicago Symphony Orchestra 

8. What You Enjoy Most About Your Job: Helping others to learn to play their instrument well and to enjoy playing their instrument.

9. Teaching/Professional Experience: Have spent hours of instructing/assisting in private lessons (for at least three years). Have assisted in many workshop sessions for young students. Have taught for one year at Falls Baptist Music School and one year at New Song Outreach Program.

10. Music Styles You’re Familiar With: Music from the Middle Ages, the Renaissance period, the Baroque period, the Classical period, the Romantic period, the PostRomantic/Impressionistic period, and the Twentieth Century.

11. Teaching Methods: The Suzuki Method with some of Paul Roland and Mimi Zweig’s teaching methods mixed in.

12. Expectations of Students: To practice (at least five days a week); to accomplish each week the goals that are set by the teacher; and to give all that they have into their instrument. 

13. Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know: I am passionate about passing on what I know to the next generation and about seeing them succeed.

Professional Experience

I freelance on cello for weddings and with a regularly rehearsing/performing trio, “Genera Consort”.

Teaching Experience

• K-8 General Music, Choral, Band-Herman School District 1978-1980
• K-6 General Music (previously band & choir) 1980-present

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical orchestral and solo literature, Broadway musicals, sacred, and some popular styles.

Teaching Methods

I am currently exploring new methods that are available.

Expectations of Students

I expect them to set personal goals, practice to achieve those goals, and ask pertinent questions.

Professional Experience

Associate Degree, Atlanta Institute of Music

Teaching Experience

• Gretel from Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel at UWM 
• Sandman from Penhorwood’s Too Many Sopranos at UWM 
• La Bergère from Ravel’s L’Enfant et les Sortilèges at UWM 
• Clarina from Rossini’s La Cambiale di Matrimonio with La Musica Lirica in Novafeltria, Italy 
• Selections of Suor Angelica from Puccini’s Suor Angelica, Le Prince Charmant from Massenet’s Cendrillon, Countess from Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro, Antonia and
• Stella from Offenbach’s Les Contes d’Hoffmann, Manon from Massenet’s Manon, with Kalliope Vocal Arts 
• Choir section leader at North Shore Presbyterian 
• Semi-Finals of the Czech-Slovak International Competition in Green Bay, Wisconsin

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Opera, art song 
Languages: Spanish, Italian, German, French, Latin, English 
Thorough knowledge of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA)

Teaching Methods

Alexander technique, body mapping

Expectations of Students

Be ready and excited to sing! Practicing outside of lessons is also great.

What I Want My Students To Know

I love opera and art songs, but I also really love folk and pop songs. I’m extremely good with languages, especially Italian and French, but I also have some experience with Russian, Czech, and Slovak.

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

• I have taken violin lessons for 17 years and piano lessons for 14 years.
• Twice, I won the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Bach Double Competition and had the privilege of performing with the MSO.
• In December 2014, I auditioned for the UWM Music Festival and was selected as a participant.
• I have completed 9 semesters of intense music pedagogy classes.
• I am currently in my senior year of college pursuing a major in music

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:

• Violin and Piano, Waukesha and Germantown

# of Years with White House:

• Started May 2018

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

• Volleyball
• Traveling

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:

• Being able to see my students learn, grow, and master their instrument.

Teaching/Professional Experience:

• I teach at Falls Baptist Music School and New Song, a community outreach program (2015-Present) – I have taught private and group lessons in violin and piano.

Music Styles You’re Familiar With:

• Classical
• Sacred

Teaching Methods:

• The repertoire I use for violin is primarily the Suzuki method, but I also supplement with other books such as Fiddle Magic and Fiddle Rhythms (Sally O’Reilly), Blue Book of Violin Tunes (Bonnie Green), and Songs for Little Players (Evelyn Avsharian).
• I have a strong focus on technique using a mix of Paul Rolland and Mimi Zweig’s techniques.
• For piano, I use a variety of method books and supplement with other sheet music.

Expectations of Students:

• I expect my students to do their best, practice consistently, and work hard in order to improve their playing.

Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know:

• Bring your instrument, music, and a notebook to your lessons with a positive attitude ready to learn!

Education

Bachelors Degree in Music & History from Ripon College

Hobbies Outside of Work

Reading, knitting, running, eating cheese, and Garfield

Favorite Band or Musical Group

Mumford & Sons, The Beatles, and the Hamilton soundtrack

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

Working with such a fun group of people who are passionate about music!

Teaching Experience

I've been teaching piano and oboe for 15 years, seven of which have been at White House of Music. I have a BA in Music Performance with an emphasis on oboe and classic piano.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical, popular, Broadway Musicals, and sacred

Teaching Methods

Piano: Faber Piano Adventures, Alfred's Premier, and Bastien

Oboe: Rubank, Essential Elements, and Barret & Sellner Studies

Expectations of Students

I'd like my students to: come to lessons prepared, practice regularly, be wiling to work hard, and be honest with me.

What I Want My Students To Know

I want to give my students a love of music!

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards

I am currently in school at the Peck School of the Arts at UW-Milwaukee, studying Clarinet Performance and Music Education.

John Philip Sousa Award recipient

Job Title

Private Lesson Teacher of Woodwinds

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location

Clarinet, Saxophone, and Flute at intermediate levels. Oboe and Bassoon at beginner levels. I teach at the Wauwatosa store.

# of Years with White House

2 years of cleaning instruments

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work

Reading, Writing, Going to the Symphony or a Show/Musical, Composing, Drawing

Favorite band/musical group

The Beatles

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job

Watching the kids grow musically

Teaching/Professional Experience

Band Buddies Program at Sussex Hamilton High School

Taught Private Lessons from home for the past 2 years

Music Styles You're Familiar With

Classical, Baroque, Romantic, Contemporary, Big Band, Rock, Pop, you name it

Teaching Methods

Repetition, individualized learning, showing good practice techniques so they can learn more efficiently and learn the piece the right way, listening to the piece you're going to play before you play it.

Expectations of Students

To practice the lesson material assigned, to practice at least twice a week, to communicate, and to have fun!

Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know

Find something to love about playing music and be curious about the world of music. It's a whole new world to discover with its own kinds of adventures.

Professional Experience

Washington Caldwell School in Waterford, WI music director from 2008-2011

Teaching Experience

• Private flute and piano lessons for 20 years
• Taught in the CAP program at White House of Music from 1994-1999
• Taught general music, middle school choir and band from 2008-2011

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Contemporary worship music

Teaching Methods

I use mainly Bastien and Alfred, but supplement with various other materials

Expectations of Students

My expectation for my students is that they take the next step for them musically. Everyone is on a different level, so I like to see them focus on doing their personal growth.

Professional Experience

Performed with Concord Chamber Orchestra 2004-05

Teaching Experience

Private violin/viola lesson at WHM for past 9 years

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical

Teaching Methods

Essential Elements to learn to read music, Suzuki to get students playing musically, and etude books as students get older.

Expectations of Students

I don’t expect every student to be a professional, but I expect my students to practice regularly (sometimes it can’t always be as much as it should but at least some practice time each week). I want them to progress. They should get better each week. Some weeks may be less successful than others-but I want to see them continually get better. Lastly, I want them to enjoy what they are doing!

Education and Professional Experience

B.A.  - Carthage College

Served on the Board of Directors for the Wisconsin Federation of Music Clubs for five years.

Hobbies Outside of Work

My love of gardening equals my passion for music.

Favorite Band/Musical Group

I can only narrow that down to genres: classical & rock. The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra performing the music of Led Zeppelin is the best of both worlds!

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

The look on a student's face when they are handed their first instrument is the fuel that keeps me passionate about my career with the White House of Music.

Teaching Experience

Private Piano Instructor – home studio for over 12 years

Member of Wisconsin Federation of Music Clubs for more than 10 years.

2014-Present at White House of Music

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical music and most forms of rock are my favorite styles to perform and teach.

Teaching Methods

I believe scales provide the best foundation for learning all types of music. Hanon exercises have become a favorite warm up to use with students of all ages. Finger Power by Sehaum is my go to method book for technique. Lesson books all have positive attributes and I tailor my choices by student learning styles.

Expectations of Students

I expect students to take personal responsibility for their success by working with me to create specific plans for overcoming obstacles. I also encourage my students to select challenging repertoire that they enjoy so they stay motivated. 

What I Want My Students To Know

I want each of my students to know that they inspire me to continue teaching.

Professional Experience

General classroom and school music; accompanying choirs, groups, solos; accompanying congregational singing at church; performing piano solos and duets

Teaching Experience

1983-1996 and 2006-2010 – Classroom teacher, including academic subjects, music and choir, grades K-8

1983 to present – private piano lessons for students of all ages and levels, from beginning to advanced; Teaching at White House of Music since 2000

Music Styles I’m familiar with

Classical, some popular music, folk tunes, hymns

Teaching Methods

I most often use Faber and Alfred, but if a student/parent has a preference about books and music, I’m happy to work with them. I also ask student to choose some of the songs and styles of music that they enjoy.

Expectations of students

Practice 4-5 days per week, including learning new pieces, reviewing previously learned music, memorizing, sightreading, practicing exercises and scales, completing theory pages. I also expect most students to participate in at least one recital per year.

What I want my students to know

First of all, I love teaching piano lessons! It’s one of the highlights of my week. I want my students to enjoy learning to play, so we use a variety of music, games, worksheets, challenges, and contests to keep students progressing. I’ve had experience with many students and can always work with a student who is willing to learn.

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

UWM Opera Theatre Student,  3rd year BA-Voice Performance

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location: 

Voice Lessons, Germantown, Wauwatosa, 

 # of Years with White House: 

Since 2020

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work: 

I am a singer/songwriter, and I am currently pursuing a recording career. I am a homebody otherwise, I love my cats and spending time with family and loved ones.

Favorite band/musical group: 

Radiohead / Tame Impala / Anderson .Paak

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job: 

I was most inspired by my music teachers than any other instructors, and I knew from their impressions on me that there is great joy in breath-throughs and learning to let go, to accept ones own voice. I enjoy helping people find their true sound, unlike anyone else.

Teaching/Professional Experience: 

Informally teaching for 4 years, and I started with White House in March of 2020.

Music Styles You’re Familiar With: 

Opera, CCM, Musical Theatre, Jazz, contemporary, singer-songwriter

Teaching Methods: 

Breathing practices, Alexander Technique, basic music theory

Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know: 

We will honor the uniqueness of your sound and use it to give you vocal freedom!

Education

Private Piano lessons with Martha Brueggeman for 12 years

Received highest achievement score from the Wisconsin Music Teachers Association

Received a superior plus ranking form the National Guild of Piano Teachers Association

Achieved Top Talent Circle honors

Received the Ten Year Paderewski Medal

Private violin lessons with Jennifer Startt (the 2nd violin principe of Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra)

Received first place in the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music 2006 Scholarship Competition for violin

 Professional/Teaching Experience

White House of Music (2019-Present)

Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught

Methods: Classical, Alfred and Faber books, Masterwork Classics

Styles/Genres: Classical, Romantic, 20th Century, Baroque

Expectations of Students

Responsibility, effort, passion, motivation, excellence, patience, obedience, a willingness and drive to succeed at their instrument and an amiable attitude towards achieving goals.

What I want my Students to Know

Becoming a remarkable piano player takes dedicated practice. I will teach you everything I know but ultimately it's up to your devotion and the attitude you give to the instrument that will blossom you into a noteworthy pianist. Learning the piano should be enjoyable and will teach you many life lessons. The end result of your hard work will be the ability to unleash your emotions through music and an outlet for expressing feelings to your listeners for their enjoyment.

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job

I enjoy investing in student's lives and helping them grow in their piano studies.

Professional Experience

Principal Clarinet – Chicago Civic Orchestra, Beloit – Janesville Symphony, Green Bay Symphony. 2nd Clarinet – Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, Nashville Symphony, Oshkosh Water Chamber Orchestra.

Teaching Experience

Teaching private clarinet students in

• Madison
• Brookfield
• Danville, IL
• Wauwatosa
• Beihoffs
• Falls Baptist High School and College
• Maranatha Bible College
• Madison Metropolitan School District Summer Music Clinic.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical, 20th Century, and Big Bands

Teaching Methods

Rubank, Hendrickson, Lazarus, Klose, Rose, Baerman

Expectations of Students

To practice daily – following my guidelines. To keep their instruments in good repair and rotate reeds, purchasing new ones when necessary. To come to their lessons ready to learn.

Primary Job Focus

Band, orchestra, and trombone

Education and Previous Work

Bachelor of Fine Arts - UW Milwaukee 

Trombone performance

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards

Current member of International Trombone Association (ITA).

Hobbies Outside of Work

Record collecting, auto racing, and live music

Favorite Band or Musical Group

Milwaukee Symphony, Pink Floyd, Queen, and various other pop and alternative artists

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

Working with music and with great customers/co-workers!

Teaching Experience

I've been teaching trombone and baritone at White House of Music for 16+ years.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical, jazz, pop, modern, and sacred

Teaching Methods

All standard method books including: Bordogni/Rochut, Cornette, Rubank, Remington, and others, in addition to solo repertoire.

Expectations of Students

Regular assigned practice, proper instrument care, and good attendance

What I Want My Students To Know

I love music, trombone, and baritone, and . will do my very best to help students grow as musicians and people.

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

M.M. in Bassoon Performance and Literature, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, 2019

B.F.A. in Multiple Woodwinds Performance, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, 2016

University of Illinois Creative and Performing Arts Fellowship 2017, 2018

University of Wisconsin Music Clinic Tuition Remission Award, 2012-2016

Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Stars of Tomorrow Honorable Mention 2011, 2012

General Pershing Music Award, 2012

WSMA Exemplary Soloist, 2011

WSMA State Honors Band, 2011

WSMA State Honors Orchestra, 2010

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:

Bassoon: Beginner to Advanced

Oboe, Saxophone, Clarinet: Beginner to Intermediate

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

Reading, drinking coffee, hiking, cooking, cycling

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:

I enjoy seeing my students overcome challenges and gain confidence in both music and life.

Education and Professional Experience

Concordia University of Wisconsin – Communications Management, Marquette University, UW-Green Bay

I've performed various styles of music around the US & Canada and am currently a solo percussionist presenting concerts, workshops, & clinics around USA & Canada

Teaching Experience

• Teaching private lessons since 1976
• Co-principle instructor at DIG (Drummer’s Institute of Greater Milwaukee) from 1989-92 where he helped develop curriculum materials
• Has presented workshops, seminars, & clinics since 1984 at music stores, schools, conventions, & for various groups

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Rock, jazz, rudimental, and avant-garde

Teaching Methods

I mainly use my own series of drum set books that I have published, supplemented by additional books/materials, and for snare drum, the Alfred’s Basic Snare Drum, Books 1 & 2.

Expectations of Students

Practice daily, pay attention at lessons , ask questions if you have them, and be prepared for each lesson.

What I Want My Students To Know

Since 1983 have been a contributing writer to MODERN DRUMMER magazine. Have also written hundreds of articles for RHYTHM, DownBeat, AVANT, and many other music magazines. I have written and published 8 books on music. I currently endorse and work with: Paiste cymbals/sounds/gongs, Mike Balter Mallets, King Kace, & Tangereens Specialty Sticks. I have released 11 CDs of solo percussion music. I have worked retail in various music stores & drum shops and maintains close ties with various musical instrument companies. I have worked for various musical instrument manufacturers as a consultant.

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards

Vocational Degree from the Atlanta Institute of Music

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location

Guitar / Waukesha

# of Years with White House

16

Playing Experience

Played original concerts at The Rave during high school. I’ve played at many open bar jam sessions including: Conway’s Pub, Six Points Pub, Doctor’s Office Tavern, and many more. There is usually live music to be played Monday-Friday, believe it or not!

Teaching Experience

Have been working at White House of Music since November, 2001 doing guitar lessons.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Blues, classic rock, and metal

Teaching Methods

I use Hal Leonard, Mel Bay, and Alfred's Method books. I also use Guitar World magazine, hand written, and Finale print custom made sheet music.

Expectations of Students

Let's set goals and crush them while having a great time doing it!

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work

Live music, movies, documentaries, MLB, NFL

Favorite band/musical group

Ozzy Osbourne

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job

I love to play guitar. I enjoy meeting new people and discovering new bands and styles of music.

Professional Experience

Active professional, performed at Summerfest, Festa Italiana, State Fair, Caroline’s Jazz Club, the Jazz Estate, Potowatomi Casino, Sharon Lynn Wilson Center for the Arts, various venues, festivals, private parties, special events

Teaching Experience

• White House of Music, 2000-present
• GW Music, West Bend WI, 1997-07

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Jazz, popular, and classical

Teaching Methods

Standard of Excellence, various special exercises from many different methods and popular sheet music. I give the student a wide variety of styles to learn from.

Expectations of Students

Practice, make concerted effort

What I Want My Students To Know

I have a good sense of humor!

Professional Experience

Director of Music (full-time position), St. Monica Church, Mishawaka, IN (1978-1981) 
Director of Music (full-time position), St. Joseph Church, Waukesha, WI (1981-1985) 
Director of Music (full-time position), St. Agnes Church, Butler, WI (1985-present)

Teaching Experience

White House of Music (1987-present); individual piano lessons

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical; popular; and easy jazz (as long as it is notated)

Teaching Methods

I choose the method according to the speed that the student is capable of learning. I am fond of the Faber series. With later-intermediate and advanced students I just use standard piano literature.

Expectations of Students

To practice regularly and watch fingering and tell me what kind of music they Most enjoy playing.

What I Want My Students To Know

I really enjoy teaching and interacting with students.

Education

Trained under Martha Brueggemann for 12 years in Piano

Received certification from Wisconsin Music Teacher's Association and National Guild of Piano Teacher's Association

Trained under Jennifer Startt for 6 years 

Member of the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra for 5 years

Winner of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra Bach Double Violin Competition in 2010

Trained in voice at Caroll University for 1 year

Professional/Teaching Experience

Accompanist 

Performance

Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught

I will use whatever method I think is best for each of my students. Typically, I use Alfred and Masterwork Classics.

I classically train my students to give them the core values of becoming good musicians. In addition to that I will teach whatever genres they're interested in learning.

Expectations of Students

I expect my students to take lessons from me because they want to become excellent musicians. I expect all of my students to practice the work I assign for the week. I expect self-discipline, determination, and a willingness to learn.

What I Want My Students to Know

I want you to know that i will not only be your instructor but I also want to be your friend. You can always come to me with any questions you have.

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job

I enjoy listening to my students play and excel in their knowledge of music. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for music with them.

Professional Experience

• Regularly play for church services 
• Accompanist for piano concertos with Federation, Solo & Ensemble, and other soloists 
• Currently conducting children’s and an adult choir at a church 
• Adjudicator for National Federation for Junior Music Clubs 
• Arrange recitals, plan and play for weddings, funerals, and special events 
• Home-schooled all four of my children from kindergarten through high school

Teaching Experience

Private piano teacher at White House of Music West Bend 
Self Employed Piano Teacher, Nancy Fritz Piano Studio 1979- present

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical and Sacred/Hymns

Teaching Methods

• Faber and Faber Piano Adventures 
• Alfred’s Basic and Early Beginner 
• Numerous supplementary books 
• Hal Leonard Scales, Patterns, and Improvs 
• I like to teach theory along with lessons either as a separate study or just to incorporate the concept to help learn the piece. 
• Duets are great fun as well! 

I like to fit the method to the student and how they learn best

Expectations of Students

Consistent practice at home is what makes the difference. When a student comes to their lesson prepared they feel a sense of accomplishment giving us time at the lesson to work on the more musical aspects of the piece. I encourage communication and feedback from parents especially with young children.

Professional Experience

Wisconsin Lutheran College: Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance

I sing professionally at functions such as weddings and funerals.

Teaching Experience

I’ve taught private music lessons for the past two and a half years. I teach sight reading/singing, music theory, and aural skills to students ages four and up.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Voice: Opera, art song, pop, music theatre, and contemporary Christian. Languages include English, Italian, German, French, Spanish and Latin. I am also proficient in the International Phonetic Alphabet.

Piano: Classical, musical theatre and contemporary Christian.

Teaching Methods

Because every student is different, there isn’t a specific series I utilize. I’ve used Bastein, Faber Piano Adventures, Alfred, Piano Town and Hanon. I also like to work with music the student picks, such as Harry Potter or Star Wars. For voice lessons, I have a wide library of repertoire and use Alexander Technique.

Expectations of Students

I expect that my students practice every week and come to their lessons with a positive attitude and a smile!

What I Want My Students To Know

I love movies and love to learn music from movies! I’ll sing along to Disney songs any day!

Education

BA Music Education and Elementary Education

MME Masters of Music Education

Past board member of WCDA

Director of WCDA Singing in WI (2x) and NEIACDA Children's Honor Choir

Master Adjudicator for WSMA

Professional/Teaching Experience

Retired vocal and general music teacher

Dubuque Chorale Associate Director

Dubuque Choral Children's Choir, Accompanist

Directed over 20 school and community musicals

Acted in many community theater companies

Sung in a few community operas

Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught

Vocal methods based on classical style of singing. Influenced by research of Clippinger, Vernard, and Phillips. Piano method used is the Bastien Piano Series.

I have taught students interested in all styles of music. I specialize in helping students connect the breathing process to vocalization.

Expectation of Students

Vocal students will need to purchase "The Clippinger Class - Method of Vocal Culture" and practice assigned vocal exercises in addition to specific songs being studied. Piano students will need to purchase a Bastien Series piano book and practice assigned pieces and theory exercises often between lessons.

What I Want My Students to Know

My goal as a teacher is to find what level a student is able to perform as a musician and help the student progress in skill as musician and inspire them to be self motivating in their study of music.

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job

What I enjoy most about teaching music is helping students grow to the point they know they have understood or mastered a skill. In other words, I love helping students become better musicians.

Hobbies Outside of Work

I enjoy cooking, sewing, gardening, composing, painting, researching many things, singing, travel, and being with friends and family.

Education and Professional Experience

Wisconsin Conservatory of Music - Diploma, Guitar Performance - 1995.

I've Recorded and performed original material in the band BENT and am currently in the band Second Soul, headed by guitar virtuoso Troy Stetina.

Teaching Experience

WHM, 1996-present

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Rock, blues, and fingerstyle

Teaching Methods

Hal Leonard Series, Troy Stetina Guitar Methods, and Mel Bay Children’s Book

Expectations of Students

Practice, learn material, and consistently improve

Professional Experience

• Solo pianist volunteer for many events
• Accompanist for vocalists in weddings, etc

Teaching Experience

• Private home instruction from 1992-present
• White House of Music Come and Play instructor, 1997-01
• Private piano instructor, White House of Music, 1992-present

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical, pop, and jazz

Teaching Methods

Faber & Faber is the method I use most often; however, I do use Hal Leonard, Alfred, and Bastien as well.

Expectations of Students

To follow and practice their piano assignments and to pay attention and listen.

What I Want My Students To Know

I like to introduce many different books and styles of music to keep the student interested and excited about playing.

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Music

Professional Experience

I play as soloist and occasionally in ensembles for weddings, funerals and other community functions.

Teaching Experience

I’ve been teaching private violin lessons for 24 years. I’ve taught in a school as well as in private studios. I have also led worship teams (youth and adult) and currently play on my church worship team. I occasionally play at community events, weddings and funerals.

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

I love many genres of music…pop, classical & folk to name a few.

Teaching Methods

I primarily teach using Suzuki principles. I mostly teach classical music but love to incorporate as much fiddle music as I can (as my students usually love it!). 

Expectations of Students

In order to progress, music students must practice on regular basis, therefore I challenge my students to practice at least 4 times/week. I also expect open communication between myself and parents/students so we can make violin lessons the best experience possible.

What I Want My Students To Know

What Do You Love About Teaching?

I truly enjoy teaching private lessons.  I especially like the fact that I can tailor the lessons to meet each individual student’s needs.  I greatly enjoy the relationships that I develop with my students and their families.  One of my favorite parts of teaching is when my students work really hard at developing something and finally get it! It is so neat to see the smiles and satisfaction on their faces.

What Are Some Of Your Favorite Hobbies?

I enjoy hanging out with my family (I have 4 kids), exercising and reading.

Professional Experience

As a musician, I have served as a woodwind doubler for several theaters in the area since 2009. I have performed in over 3 dozen musicals and have also served as a pit orchestra director for several high school shows. I also perform regularly with Knightwind, Milwaukee's premiere wind ensemble, and continue to seek out new performance opportunities whenever possible.

Teaching Experience

I have worked with students who range from absolute beginner to advanced - 4th through 12th grade. Group lessons, full band classes, private lessons and workshops have all been a part of my responsibilities as a teacher. 

• 2009 - present: in-house private lesson teacher for beginning to advanced woodwind students 
• 2013/14 school year - Central Middle School, Waukesha - 7th and 8th grade group lesson instructor 
• 2013/14 school year - Burbank Elementary School, Milwaukee - teacher for a new after-school band program started by the West End Conservatory 
• Every summer, I serve as a beginning band camp teacher and marching band tech for several schools in Southeast Wisconsin. This is a great opportunity to work with new students, new teachers, and to learn more as an educator. Every summer brings new adventures in music teaching and music making!

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Music from the Baroque and Classical era, along with instrumental music from the 20th century. Also, Billy Joel.

Teaching Methods

After a couple lessons with a student, a method series or book will be decided on, or a combination of methods thereof. I believe that not every method caters to every student, so I like to be open to new ideas and combinations of methods on a case-by-case basis.

Expectations of Students

I expect my students to come into lessons with an open mind and a willingness to step outside the box and try new things. Students will have to practice regularly and work hard in lessons, but with hard work and diligent practice comes great musical rewards and fun!

What I Want My Students To Know

I will always have high standards for my students and hold them accountable for practicing and working hard, but laughter is also an important part of every lesson. Students can prepare themselves to hear my awful jokes (they're so bad, they're good!) and quotes from movies filmed from 1984-1992. A great time will be had by all!

Professional Experience

• Watertown Area Chamber Orchestra – oboe, 20 years 
• Kettle Moraine Symphony – substitute oboist, 5 years

Teaching Experience

• Piano and Instrumental Lessons, home studio – Sept 1992-Present 
• Volunteer Sunday School teacher – August 2012-present 
• Classroom teaching at various levels – August 2001-November 2007 
• Instrumental Music Instruction, Middle School Level – 1994-1999

Professional Experience

Took part in Indiana University Summer String Academy in 2010

Teaching Experience

Falls Baptist Music School (2013-2015)- Teaching lessons to elementary through junior high age students 
New Song (2013-2015)- Teaching lessons to elementary students

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical and Sacred

Teaching Methods

Violin and Viola- I use Suzuki as a basic framework and supplement with some other books and sheet music. 
Piano- I use a variety of method books (Alfred, Faber, etc.) and supplement some additional pieces.

Expectations of Students

Students should have a desire to learn, practice diligently, enjoy music, and desire to develop to their full potential.

Professional Experience

Guitar and bass player in various cover and original bands since 1989. Currently ½ of acoustic jazz-fusion duo playing various jazz clubs and high end restaurants.

Teaching Experience

• Music Go Round 1997-2007
• Casico Interstate Music 2001-2003
• Mequon Music 2003-2004
• Private guitar lessons 2004- Present
• White House Of Music 2007-Present
• Author of “Soloing Concepts”. A four part online soloing instructional course for theguitarnote.com

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Rock, blues, jazz-fusion, with a mixture of country.

Teaching Methods

Depending on the student and their needs, I will use my own method, Fast Track guitar and bass series, or the Hal Leonard book series. The Musicians Institute method is great for more focused studies of certain concepts.

Expectations of Students

I have a couple simple rules. Do the best you can and try. I have no expectation on how fast someone should learn how to play. I encourage students to practice everyday at least 15-20 minutes, more if possible. I also welcome feedback on the lessons and whether or not we are heading in the desired direction. Open communication is the key to a successful teaching and learning experience.

What I Want My Students To Know

Guitar and music is not only my job but it is my passion. In addition to teaching I am a custom guitar builder. My spare time is spent playing in my band and recording music.

Professional Experience

I have accompanied several musicals and private recitals including “Hansel & Gretel”, “Godspell”, and “Annie Get your Gun”.

Teaching Experience

• Holy Assumption School Piano & Classroom Music, Program for Visually Impaired
• Private Home Studio
• Carroll University Academy Program
• White House of Music

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical music is my favorite. I love old standards and music from the 70s and 80s.

Teaching Methods

Alfred’s Premier Piano Course, Piano Adventures by Faber & Faber, and Hal Leonard Student Piano Library

Expectations of Students

The Music Tree by Frances Clark, Hal Leonard Solos, and some Faber & Faber

Education

MATC – Music Business Major Major Instrument – Guitar Minor Instrument - Violin Carroll University – Music Business Major Major Instrument - Violin Minor Instruments – Viola, Guitar, Piano WCTC – Web and Software Developer Major Honors: Dean’s List, National Technical Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa

Professional/Teaching Experience

I have been teaching privately since 2003. I have been in a variety of bands and orchestras including metal, eclectic, duos, a trio, and jamming with my brother on Tool songs.

Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught Methods:

Guitar: All students start with an age appropriate book and are taught to read music notation first. From there we explore a variety of styles and interests. Violin/Viola: Beginners start with Essential Elements 2000 to learn basics and note reading and go on to the Suzuki series of books. In addition I supplement the more advanced students with pieces, etudes and scales that are for their level. All: I like to step outside the box while learning from the books with something fun that plays to the student’s ability. Styles/Genres Taught: Classical, metal, rock, jazz, blues (all instruments) Irish, old time fiddle (violin/viola)

Expectations of Students:

I expect my students to put in an appropriate amount of practice for their instrument, level, and age. I encourage parents to be involved in their child’s music education, especially for very young students, so they can get the most out of what they are learning. I also expect some playing around on the instrument when all the things are practiced because that’s the best part!

What I want my students to know:

I love questions… and Harry Potter.

Favorite band/musical group:

I have so many favorites! Guitar based: Korn, Tool, Death, Asking Alexandria, I Prevail, Led Zeppelin, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Stanley Jordan to name a few Violin: Paganini, Lindsey Stirling, Salvatore Accardo, Itzhak Perlman, David Garrett, Gil Shaham, Hilary Hahn, Natalie Mac Master, Regina Carter and more Guitar/violin: Black Veil Brides Bass: Victor Wooten

What you enjoy most about your job:

I love watching my students learn and grow. I also love sharing my musical knowledge with those that are also interested.

Hobbies Outside of Work:

Aside from finishing my Web and Software degree (which isn’t really a hobby), I like playing World of Warcraft and other computer games. Actually, I’m a pretty big gamer. I also enjoy reading, writing, grilling, and taking my chihuahua to the park. When I’m not doing any of that, I like to scrapbook, draw (badly), and beat my mom at cribbage.

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

Instrumental Music degree – UW-Oshkosh

Master in Education – Marian College

Retired Music Teacher

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:

Brass/Woodwinds, Germantown

# of Years with White House:

2019 - Present

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

Family – married to a teacher (Diane), daughter (Megan) and son (Trevor)

Sports – Packers, Badgers, Bucks, Brewers

Nature – Walking, hiking, running

Traveling

Favorite band/musical group:

80s Rock Groups

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:

I enjoy the individual interactions from week to week. I also enjoy starting new students with little experience and seeing how much they can grow as a person and a musician.

Teaching/Professional Experience:

32 Years teaching (mostly middle school band), some orchestra and general music

Music Styles You’re Familiar With:

Mostly beginner level band and solo work

Expectations of Students:

Practice and show improvement from week to week

Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know:

If you want to excel at anything, you must be willing to put in the time and effort.

Professional Experience

• Belgrade Opera Orchestra, Belgrade, Yugoslavia, 1st & 2nd clarinet, '86-'89
• International Orchestra, United States International University, San Diego, 1st & 2nd clarinet, '89-'91
• Youth Philharmonic Orchestras of Belgrade and Vojvodina, '80-'86
• Soloist with International Orchestra, San Diego, '91
• Soloist with Youth Philharmonic Orchestra of Vojvodina, '87
• Performed in various chamber music groups with International Chamber Players, San Diego, '89-'91
• Performed with Symphonic Band of Music School of U.S.C., Los Angeles, '91-'92
• Performed with Wind Ensemble of Music School of U.W. Milwaukee, '98-'00
• Performed music for Sumadia Serbian Folk Dance Ensemble, Milwaukee, '02-present
• Performed music for Na Lesa Bulgarian Folk Dance Ensemble, Milwaukee, '05-present
• Performs occasionally in solo recitals or as a part of classical music concerts on clarinet.

Teaching Experience

• Milwaukee Public Schools, Engleburg Elementary School, music teacher, '04-present
• Milwaukee Public Schools, South Division High School, band & orchestra director, '03-'04
• Milwaukee Public Schools, Audubon Middle School, band & orchestra director, '01-'03
• White House of Music, Waukesha, clarinet teacher, '98-present
• Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, Milwaukee, clarinet teacher, '97-'00
• Los Angeles Yamaha Music School, instructor for flute and clarinet, '96-'97
• Village Music Guild, Agoura Hills, instructor for clarinet, '95-'96
• St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, Milwaukee, St. Sava Tamburitza Orchestra director, '01- present
• St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, Milwaukee, Serbian language teacher for children and adults, '99-'04
• St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, Milwaukee, music teacher for children, '98-'04
• St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, Milwaukee, Sunday School teacher, '97-'04

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical and Serbian folk music.

Teaching Methods

For the beginners I use band method books students are already using in their band lessons at their school, but for an advanced students I would use Progressing Clarinetist, Melodious and Progressive Studies, Rose etude books, Kroepsch, etc.

Expectations of Students

To practice daily; to follow my directions and to come to lessons prepared.

What I Want My Students To Know

I am of Serbian heritage – I came from Serbia more the 20 years ago – so my students can learn from me about the culture I am coming from and different ways of music education.

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

Bachelor’s degree from Belarusian State Academy of Arts

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:

Germantown

# of Years with White House:

2019-Present

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

Music composing, sound engineering, keyboard player at church

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:

I enjoy seeing my students’ progress

Teaching/Professional Experience:

4 years of teaching piano and music theory classes

Music Styles You’re Familiar With:

Classical

Teaching Methods:

The Alfred method is my favorite, but I try to use an individual approach for each student that best suits their personality (The Bastien, Faber, Kasschau, Fletcher and other methods).

Expectations of Students:

I strongly believe that practice at home is very important. I recommend that students practice at least 5 times a week, even it’s only for 10 minutes.

Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know:

I grew up in Belarus and moved to the United States in 2016