About
Andy's teaching focuses on proven pedagogy to help students start playing for the first time, or improve their range, technique, tone and intonation. He wants all of his students to have fun playing their instrument, while improving. Getting better feels good right? With over a decade teaching experience, Andy has worked with students as young as 7 through teens and leisure players. He is passionate about the joy of music, and imparts that joy to others.
Andy has been teaching music since 2003. He has been playing music since age 10 when he began playing trumpet in 5th grade. Mr. LaRusch holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from San Diego State University and is certified in Arizona. He has worked as a music and marching coach at the high school level, performed live jazz, classical, funk, rock and blues music, recorded with several bands in studio, and has been the instrumental music director at Sunnyslope High School in Phoenix Arizona for 10 years.
Check out his LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewlarusch
It is incredibly rewarding to help students reach their goals of being better musicians. The "ah-ha" moments with music are so powerful. I have the privilege of sharing a life long pursuit. It really is amazing.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When starting with a new student I work very hard to build a fun but productive environment. We spend time talking about their experiences as a musician and begin to build goals to ensure their growth.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Before earning my Bachelors degree in Music Education, I spent several years building a private lesson studio of 30 students. These students were mostly on trumpet, but I have also taught guitar and many other instruments.
As a high school teacher for 10 years, and a tutor before that, I have worked with students on every band instrument in the ensemble along with strings.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I generally charge $30 a half hour and $50 an hour. For 5th and 6th grade students I recommend half hour lessons. For 7th grade through adult, I recommend full hour lessons.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching music while working in a music store and as a marching and music coach for a local high school. This led naturally to building a studio and finally becoming a full time teacher after earning my degree.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with a wide variety of students from age 7 through adult and from a myriad of backgrounds. I encourage every student to excel and work to foster a mindset of continuous growth.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Over the past 3 years I have had the opportunity to work with my two sons in participating in cub scouts. The many adventures we have has helped us grow closer, and helped them grow as young men by learning valuable interpersonal and lifelong skills.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Students and parents should take the time to get to know what they want and expect to from a teacher, and what Hey want and expect from themselves.
Any pursuit of learning takes time and diligence for improvement to occur. Students should be ready to dedicate time to their music lessons, come prepared with their proper materials and be ready to have fun and learn.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students assess what amount of time and energy they are able to commit to the process of learning an instrument, especially if they are starting from the very beginning.
They should also try to gage their interest in learning to read sheet music and learn a bit of music theory. These skills support growth and continued enjoyment of the activity.