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:
Private Piano lessons 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 for 8 years
Received first place in the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music 2006 Scholarship Competition
Certificate in elementary teaching from the Royal Conservatory of Music
 
Professional/Teaching Experience:
White House of Music (2019-Present)
Kiddie Academy (2022-Present)
Hales Corners Lutheran Church and School (2022-Present)
 
Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught:
Methods- Piano. Alfred, Faber, Bastien book series and anything else that works
Violin. Suzuki, Solos for Young Violinists, Fiddle Rhythms and anything else that works
Styles/Genres- Classical focus paired with fun styles preferred by each student
 
Expectations of Students:
Excellence
 
What I want my Students to Know:
I want my students to know themselves through music. Them and their instrument are the connection to a different world. Together we’ll learn how to interpret sounds and express feelings, strengthen posture and confidence, read music, memorize, and build qualities that are applicable to many other areas of life. We’re going to have a lot of fun, but also be trained to work through the hardships of music. I expect my students to be dedicated to practice, and especially work diligently on our recital pieces. Know that I’m here to help achieve goals as much as I can, and hope to enable all aspirations 🙂

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:
I love meeting students of assorted ages and personalities. It makes me happy when they’re excited about their pieces and are proud of their improvements. I enjoy when my students enjoy music even more by playing it themselves.

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

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!

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!

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

• 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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

Dan Maske is a composer, performer, and recording producer, as well as a teacher in those subjects. He has over 25 years experience teaching piano, as well as drum set, and trumpet. He holds BA and MM degrees in music theory/composition from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and a DMA in music composition from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He also performs on trumpet and drum set, and will take on the role of conductor from time to time. In addition, he is a published author of musical instructional books (Progressive Rock Keyboard: https://bit.ly/38Qbu0S, Progressive Rock Drumming: https://bit.ly/31a3Njx, Circle of Fifths Explained https://bit.ly/2NzPCC2, and Counterpoint Explained). Maske has also served on the music faculty of Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, WI, since 2007, and has been teaching composition for the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra since 2005. 

Dan and his wife, Angela Schmidt, are also founding members of the progressive rock band Far Corner (Far-corner.com), where he plays keyboards and composes the band’s music. The group’s recordings have been released on the Cuneiform Records label (http://cuneiformrecords.com/bandshtml/farcorner.html). 

Dan Maske teaches all levels, from beginner to advanced. He specializes in classical, rock, and jazz. Jazz based lessons often focus on improvisation, as well as learning notable works in the jazz repertoire. With respect to classical music, Dan covers all eras and composers, including adventurous works by modern composers. 

In addition, piano lessons often involve instruction in composition, depending on students’ interests and goals. Whether it be creating short and simple piano pieces, full rock/pop songs, or even classical works, scored for orchestral instruments, students have the opportunity to tackle a variety of creative endeavors. Such creative work may either be a part of piano lessons, or the main focus of instruction.

Dan also works with college-bound high school students, in preparing them for auditions, and helping them achieve a certain level of proficiency in music theory. Younger students also have the opportunity to enter the State Solo and Ensemble festival, and other similar events, where Dan works with them to polish solos in classical and/or jazz, to be performed for a judge. 

The following is a statement from Dan Maske, regarding his overall teaching philosophy, but each student is treated as an individual, where parents and adult students can request a specific area of focus, based on their interests:

In piano lessons, I teach a form of “comprehensive musicianship,” meaning I work to include traditional music reading and technique, creative elements such as composition and improvisation, music theory, music technology, and more. These help turn students into well-rounded musicians, while making the experience as fun and engaging as possible. I also pay attention to each student’s own musical interests, including styles of music they love, personal goals, and I pay close attention to the areas of music to which a student responds the most. I am also mindful of the impact music instruction can have on children, benefitting them as they strive to succeed in all subjects in school, sports, and other activities. 

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.

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
MM Musicology & MLIS Library Science (In progress. Expected graduation: 2022)
Music History Teaching Assistant (2021-2022)
Chancellor’s Graduate Student Award (2020-2021)

University of Denver
Graduate Certificate in Arts and Culture Management (Graduated June 2021)

California State University - Long Beach
BM Oboe Performance & Music History and Literature (Graduated May 2020)
Bob Cole Music Scholar (2017 - 2020)

Sigma Alpha Iota
Sword of Honor Award Recipient (2020)
Phyllis Holt Dobbyns Merit Scholarship Award (2018)

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:

Oboe and Piano teacher at Waukesha location.

# of Years with White House:

White House of Music in Waukesha since August 2021

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

I enjoy nature walks, embroidery, reading, and cooking. I have a pet cat and three rabbits.

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:

Being able to pass down my passion for music is what I enjoy most about teaching. I also like to
get to know my students and their background because it helps me curate a better lesson plan
since everyone has individual learning abilities. If I can connect with my students and learn more
about where they come from and what their goals are with music, music lessons will be
extremely enjoyable for both the student and myself.

Teaching/Professional Experience:

Oboe
Professional: As an active freelancer from Southern California, I have performed with
groups such as the San Diego City Ballet Orchestra, Pacific Lyric Association, Left Coast
Quintet, San Diego Philharmonic Orchestra, North Coast Symphony Orchestra, and the
Studio Orchestra of Long Beach. As principal of the Studio Orchestra of Long Beach, she
has collaborated with notable artists such as Chloe Agnew – a former member of the Irish
female ensemble, Celtic Women.

Teaching: Teaching beginner-to-advance students since 2016.

Piano
Professional: Some accompaniment experience. Volunteer performances for retirement
homes and toddler day care.

Teaching: Teaching beginner-to-intermediate students since 2014.

Music Styles You’re Familiar With:

Classical, contemporary, and other various genres.

Teaching Methods:

Oboe:

Students start on the AMR Barret’s oboe method book & David Hite’s Foundation Studies
for oboe supplemented by various solo repertoire and student’s ensemble repertoire.

Piano:

Students start from John W. Schaum’s piano method (Grade Pre-A and A) to John
Thompson’s piano method (Grade 1 to 5). Method books supplemented by various solo
repertoire.

Expectations of Students:

Students should practice at least 30 minutes a day for at least five days per week.
Students should always bring the necessary materials to lessons.
Students will learn necessary life skills that can work outside of music.
Students should come to lessons with a great attitude, ready to learn and have fun.

# of Years with White House:

Since 2022

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

Math tutoring, organizing, Church activities

Favorite band/musical group:

Boston Cello Quartet, Canadian Brass

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:

Seeing students achieve

Interacting with students and helping them progress forward and express their musicality.

Teaching/Professional Experience:

I have taught at my house for several years as well as the Falls Baptist Music School for about a year. I am still in an undergraduate degree at Baptist College of Ministry, but I am on track to graduate with a Music Major in the Spring of 2023.

Music Styles You’re Familiar With:

Classical

Teaching Methods:

Suzuki, Williams Piano Adventure Series, I am a strong advocate of ear training and etude focus

Expectations of Students:

Practice consistently and show effort, communication with any questions or misunderstandings, and expect to have a good time:)

Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know:

I work on technique and posture, especially at the beginning of learning an instrument. It is essential to play effortlessly and comfortably.

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:

Piano teacher at Waukesha

Musical background:

Piano is one of my favorite things. I started taking piano lessons when I was 8 years old and the longer I have played, the more I enjoy it. My musical training has been through Falls Baptist Music School and Baptist College of Ministry.

Favorite band/musical group:

Each time I go to the MSO or CSO is a highlight for me. I really enjoy listening to classical music and piano concertos are my favorite!

Teaching Methods:

I primarily use Faber Piano Adventures and will supplement with other method books, skill sets, and sheet music.

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

Outdoors
Volleyball
Biking

Music Styles You’re Familiar With:

Classical
Sacred

Expectations of Students:

Students should put their best effort into learning piano. In order to do well, students are expected to practice faithfully between lessons in order to meet the goals I give them. They should come to their lessons ready to learn more. I want my students to have a willingness to learn and a determination to do their best.

What I Want My Students To Know:

My ultimate goal is to teach my students how to read music. While I am excited to teach them piano, I also want to teach them to be able to read music so they can transfer that to any other instrument of interest. Character building is an important aspect of music lessons. Learning an instrument has valuable lessons to be transferred to other areas of life.

Education

23 years of experience.  B.A. in Liberal Arts from Maranatha Baptist University in 2017.  Trained through the Flint School of performing arts & private lessons from DSO (Detroit Symphony Orchestra) acting associate concert master Hai-Xin Wu.  Participated in the Dort Honors String quartet & multiple orchestras.

Professional/Teaching Experience

I have taught violin, viola, and piano for 7 years.  I’ve played violin since I was 3 years old and started piano when I was 4.  Music has been a huge part of my life and I take every opportunity to use my abilities.

Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught

I love to ignite and feed a passion and love for music in each child’s life.  My goal is to teach each student how to teach themselves and work with them to find ways to make the best music they can and have a blast while doing it! I teach classical, fiddle, sacred, and more.

Expectation of Students

I expect my students to come ready to learn and have fun!  Practicing between lessons makes the lessons more fun so I expect some practice between lessons the amount being conditional on each student.

What I want my students to know

I strive for musical excellence, but never want to neglect the fun that music can bring!  Music can be an expression of our emotions and soul in a way that words can often fail.

Favorite band/musical group

I love many genres of music and groups, so I can’t really say I have a favorite.

What you enjoy most about your job

I love seeing a student’s eyes light up when they get a concept or seeing them smile and laugh when we are having fun making music!

Hobbies outside of work

I love going hiking with friends, playing board games, & keeping up with my overgrown chocolate Labrador!

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honor/Awards:

Music has been a huge part of my life since I was six years old! I have been taking music lessons for 17 years, and my primary major at Butler University was piano. I have played piano and flute for WSMA solo ensemble many times, including as a piano accompanist. I have also played for art shows, retirement homes, weddings and more. For the first 12 years that I took piano lessons, I had the same teacher. The relationship I developed with her has been exceedingly influential for me, and I strive to make a similar impact on my own students.

What you enjoy most about your job:

I love when my students are excited about music and seeing how proud they are when they make progress!

Music styles I'm familiar with:

I am most knowledgeable about classical, romantic, baroque, popular, and sacred music.

Teaching methods:

I have experience teaching piano using the Faber method. For flute, I am familiar with Accent on Achievement, books by Patricia George and Phyliss Avidan Louke, and books by Trevor Wye. I'm open to teaching using other curriculums as well. With both piano and flute, I like to include other sheet music in addition to using the lesson books.

Expectations of students:

I expect my students to show up ready to learn, ask questions, and practice consistently!

Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:

I am currently an undergraduate student at Baptist College of Ministry majoring in Music Performance and Pedagogy. My degree is specifically directed to piano and violin pedagogy. I have studied under Elizabeth Zempel, Jamie Hofman, Mary Williams, and Anna Overmiller. I started violin at age three and now have been studying it for 18 years. I began piano a few years later and have studied it for 15 years. In addition, I am actively involved in chamber, symphony, and ensemble groups. I have also had the privilege to perform with the MSO in the Stars of Tomorrow competition as honorable mention. In the winter of 2019, our chamber group won the opportunity to perform a concert at the Midwest clinic.

Job Title:

Violin and Piano Teacher

Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:

Violin and Piano teacher at Germantown

# of Years with White House:

I began teaching at White House of Music in Germantown June 1, 2021

Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:

I enjoy spending time with my family/cousins and pet bunny. I also love playing volleyball, frisbee, hockey, rollerblading, biking, swimming… practically anything outside with friends 🙂 A morning with coffee and my Bible is my favorite way to start a day!

Favorite band/musical group:

I enjoy going to the MSO or CSO. Before covid, I loved going to Ravinia in Chicago (an outside concert in a large park), and look forward to going again when it opens again. Classical music is my favorite genre.

What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:

I enjoy learning more about my students and their hobbies. I love to have fun in the lesson and connect their hobbies with music. It is neat to watch how they progress and grow over the years in music. It is just so awesome to work with people and make a difference in their life.

Teaching/Professional Experience:

I have completed five semester-long pedagogy classes and taught private lessons for three years. I am currently also teaching at Falls Baptist Music School and New Song program that is based out of the music school.

Music Styles You’re Familiar With:

I teach mainly Classical music with the various genres involved.

Teaching Methods:

Violin: Suzuki Method with supplemental pieces and exercises books.

Piano: Beginner- Piano Exploration Series; Beginner/Intermediate-Alfred Piano Series

Expectations of Students:

I expect my students to practice consistently and correctly in order to build character and strengthen their musical skills. I appreciate respect and obedience during the lesson. Finally, I expect each student to come ready to have fun...even if it is a music lesson!)

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.

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.

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

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in music & History from Ripon College

Associates Degree in Supply Chain Management (in progress) from WCTC  

Favorite Band or Musical Group

The Beatles, The Cranberries, Mumford & Sons, Hamilton soundtrack  

What I Enjoy Most About My Job

I love seeing my students make any sort of progress, whether big or small! 

Playing Experience

Music Leader/Pianist, St. John’s Lutheran Church Stone Bank

Oboist, Racine Concert Band

Freelance oboe and piano player in the greater Milwaukee area

Teaching Experience

White House of Music since 2010.

Previously taught at Heid Music, Brass Bell Music and the Oak Creek Academy of Performing Arts  

Music Styles I’m Familiar With

Classical, popular, Broadway Musicals, and sacred

Teaching Methods

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

I also love Czerny, Hanon, and Burgmüller studies! 

Expectations of Students

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

What I Want My Students To Know

I am here to help you grow as a musician, but I am also here to be a mentor as well! I enjoy getting to know all of my students and their interests outside of piano, and I will make sure that our lessons reflect your goals as well as my expectations of you. 

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.