Whether it’s your first time behind a musical instrument or you have been playing the piano for years, we have a private teacher available for you! With four local music stores offering piano lessons in Watertown, Waukesha, Wauwatosa, and West Bend, White House of Music has everything you’ll need to become a successful pianist.
Why Choose White House of Music?
Why Take Piano Lessons?
Our lesson coordinators can help find the right teacher for you! Contact us to get started!
Piano Accessories
Credentials/Certifications/Education/Honors/Awards:
Primary Focus/Instrument Specialty/Store Location:
# of Years with White House:
Interests/Hobbies Outside of Work:
What You Enjoy Most About Your Job:
Teaching/Professional Experience:
Music Styles You’re Familiar With:
Teaching Methods:
Expectations of Students:
Anything Else You Want Your Students to Know:
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
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
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
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
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
Teaching Experience
Professional Experience
Soloist and accompanist in church and accompanied in dramatic productions
Teaching Experience
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
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
Jennifer has 5 years of experience teaching voice and 10 years of experience teaching piano. She also professionally directed instrumental and vocal ensembles. Jennifer teaches a wide range of styles, including musical theatre, jazz, classical, romantic, impressionistic, and early music, as well as contemporary, R&B, pop, folk, and rock. Jennifer believes that developing the proper technique will enable one to handle a number of styles. Jennifer can assist in preparing for auditions and contests and also encourages participation in recitals. Also certified in music therapy, she can help students develop their “mental game,” enabling students to practice and perform at their highest potential, unencumbered by anxiety, self-doubt, unhealthy perfectionism, procrastination, and other common obstacles. Jennifer believes music theory is the basis for a high level of musicianship and can teach theoretical concepts, improvisation, harmonization, and composition, in conjunction with performance. Jennifer can serve as a coach to musicians who want to begin performing professionally, developing business skills such as advertising and networking, on numerous media platforms and in the community.
Jennifer earned a bachelor of music degree from Alverno College, with an emphasis in vocal performance, specializing in early music, romantic, contemporary, musical theatre, choral, and jazz. Jennifer is a soprano alumna of the Milwaukee Symphony Chorus and has sung with the chamber vocal ensemble Chant Claire. She performs as a solo jazz singer with various jazz instrumentalists regionally, specializing in Latin styles. She composes piano music in a meditative style.
Professional Experience
Luther Manor Nursing Home-assisted and organized programming and music for the elderly
Teaching Experience
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
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.
Professional Experience
Teaching Experience
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/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
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.
Our very own Brandon Yahn explains why it’s important to keep practicing throughout the calendar year! Avoid the “Summer Slide” with private lessons and regular practice sessions.
Is your student ready to start “Making Music For Life” as a beginner pianist? We walk you through the process of helping your student take their first steps into the world of music performance.
“John in the string shoppe helped my wife fall in love with a new viola that she is delighted with. The whole experience was magical in her words. Customer service at its best!”
“Being an adult, it was not easy for me to learn Piano, until I met my first Piano teacher Angela at White House of Music in Waukesha. I would never forget that experience. “
“Extremely knowledgeable! I have been a customer of WHM for more than 25 years. The service has always been exceptional and the employees know their stuff. These guys are clearly passionate about music and helping others explore and enjoy it. Additionally I find the prices to be comparable with anywhere in the area or online. Keep it up White House!”
“Rented violins while my daughter was still growing from them before buying (a full sized violin). Great experience all around! Thank you to John helping her to select her new beautiful instrument.”
“We stopped in the store on 3/20/17 to check out ukuleles for our daughter’s birthday. Mike showed us the instruments and all of their features and proceeded to play “Happy Birthday” to our daughter Ella. Mike was very helpful and made our experience at your store a very positive one so much so that we purchased a new Ukulele for Ella’s Birthday. She looks forward to showing Mike what she can play at his monthly class.”
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While appointments aren’t required in any of our stores, they do make sure that you receive one-on-one assistance as soon as you step foot in the door. It will also help our staff be prepared for your questions – whether that be on our instrument rental programs, signing a young musician up for music lessons, making your first instrument purchase, joining the New Horizons Band, and more!
