Bill Shontz Woodwind Specialist
About
I toured for many years with the nationally acclaimed duo Rosen Shontz. I have played in 44 states and several countries. I have sold over 750,000 CDs and appeared on the Disney Channel, the Today Show, Fenway Park for the Boston Red Sox and much more.
I have a masters degree as a Woodwind Specialist and teach Saxes, Flutes, Clarinets, Recorders, native instruments and more.
My philosophy is one of insperation. And my passion is my students passion. To that end I teach Classical, Jazz, Rock and more. Whatever my students interest is what I teach. I find that when inspiration is the goal, practice is fun not work.
I teach any age from Elementary, College, adults, and professionals, from beginners to advanced.
For more info on my professional career go to: www.billshontz.com or call: 413-533-3397
Highlights
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I first ask, what is their goal in taking lessons. Depending on the answer I direct our lessons to attaining that goal, thus making the lessons relevant to their passion. This makes practicing fun, not work
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have taught at the Brattleboro Music Center for 25 years, I taught at Bluffton College, Muskingum College, Ohio State and the University of Illinois.
I have toured professionally most of my life and have vast experience performing for many different kinds of events. TV Radio, Symphony Orchestras, Rock Bands, Jazz, Native American and much more.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My lessons, if at my home studio or Skype are $50. If I travel, it depends on the distance and number of students.
How did you get started teaching?
I started in High School and as I worked my way through college and grad school, I gained a lot of experience.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with everyone from Grade Schoolers, College Students, Grad Students, Adults who are getting back to their instruments or learning for the first time, Professionals who want to learn something specific (theory, doubled instrument etc.)
Mostly though I work and limit myself to those who really want to learn and have a good time doing it.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am blessed that I have performed thousands of School Shows, Colleges, Theaters, with symphony orchestras, Fenway Park for the Boston Red Sox, Today Show, Disneyland, to mention a few
My joy comes from giving joy. Each show is unique and I love them all
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Stay focussed on what you wish to learn. Don't be too demanding of yourself. Keep the joy of what you want in the forefront, and don't get sidetracked with "shoulds"
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What is your "Why". If you have a special goal in mind, it helps to focus your attention and I can help direct you to attain that goal.