John Speers Woodwinds
About
My name is John Speers and I've always had a passion for teaching music. I attended University of Michigan, majoring in flute and oboe performance. I also enjoyed playing in jazz band, where I played sax and clarinet. After college, I got my teaching credential in music education and I now work as an elementary school classroom and choral music teacher in Lafayette. While this is my day job, I also teach a full studio of woodwind students, which I've been doing for the past 6 years. My oboe website address is www.johnspeersoboe.com. I am in the process of putting together websites for flute and sax as well. If you're looking for a teacher who is passionate and enthusiastic, and is able to adjust his/her teaching style according to what fits each student's needs, then look no further! Hope to hear from you!
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I always ask each student how much experience he/she has and am able to work with students of all ages and levels. If the student is not a beginner, then I ask him/her if there is anything specific he/she would like to work on or any specific goals he/she has. Otherwise, I tend to use the same method books for students (Bruce Pearson's Standard of Excellence for beginners, Rubank for intermediate students, and Barret Method Book for advanced) and focus on improving their technique, tone, intonation, sightreading, and more.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I attended University of Michigan School of Music, Theater, and Dance, where I majored in flute and oboe performance. Following this, I obtained a Masters Degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and a teaching credential in music education from Saint Mary's College, in Moraga.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My rates are somewhat negotiable, but my standard rates are $45 for 30 minutes and $65 for 45 minutes.
How did you get started teaching?
I majored in music performance while I was in college. Following this, I began teaching private students and decided that while I still enjoyed playing music, I was more passionate about teaching it and getting students excited about it. This led me to get my teaching credential this past year.
What types of students have you worked with?
As previously mentioned, I work with students of all ages/levels. I am always able to adapt my teaching methods based on each individual student's needs.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
My advice would be that while it is extremely valuable to take private lessons, it does not mean that you shouldn't spend time practicing on your own. While a private teacher is there to guide you and show you new techniques, it is your job to use your acquired knowledge and practice it on your own if you want to improve your playing.