About
Under my teaching, students experience firsthand that music is a creative art as well as an interpretive art. With motivating repertoire and instruction tailored to the child’s learning style, the student is singing or playing and making music in no time. I offer top-quality musical instruction that will give the student a life-long understanding and appreciation of music.
For young voice students, I teach students how to properly use their voices and bodies while still having fun! By using a variety of genres such as traditional music, folk songs and musical theater, students learn how to engage their whole body to create a beautiful sound and an entertaining presentation. No experience necessary!
For piano lessons, using age appropriate standard piano literature, I teach basic music and keyboard fundamentals such as rhythm, note-reading, technique, theory, ear training, improvisation, and performing as well as music appreciation and music history.
I have a B.S. in Music Education from Messiah College and have taken Graduate Courses in vocal pedagogy, vocal literature, singer's diction, piano pedagogy, piano literature, choral conducting, church choirs, and children's choirs at Westminster Choir College. I taught music in the Carlisle Area School District before starting my family. I have taught private voice and piano lessons in the area for over 25 years, as well as directed the Carlisle Homeschool Children & Youth Choir Program for over 12 years. I am a member of the MTNA (Music Teacher's National Association).
As a music teacher I believe in providing -
An individualized plan for each student’s course of study
Development of teaching materials
Training and experience
Recital preparation and repertoire planning
Professional organization memberships
Continuing education
Music lending library
Technology used in the lessons
https://www.facebook.com/ODonnellMusicStudio/
I love teaching students of all ages how to create beautiful music and discover the joy of their God-given abilities! Whether the student loves to perform or just wants to make music for their own enjoyment, my Studio is a safe place for them to explore and learn. I ask questions and let the student have the wonder of discovering what works for them!
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
For piano, I like to get the student playing the piano as soon as possible. If they have a song they can play, I listen to it. I teach them a song by rote at the very first lesson. We learn how to properly sit at the piano. I get children to improvise at the piano thorugh the lens of animals. We choose two animals to make up a story and explore differents registers on the piano to go with our animals.
For voice, I hear the student sing a song of their choice. I explore their vocal range by simple warm-up exercises. I explain about proper breathing and how a singer stands to sing.Then we get started on learning a sheet of vocal warm-ups followed by sight singing materials. Songs follow after a few lessons depending on the progress of the student.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a B.S. in Music Education and continue to take courses & workshops to keep up with the latest in teaching music. I have recently taken these Courses or workshops - Total Vocal Freedom - Alexander Technique (and More!) for Singers, Technology in the Piano Studio (online lessons, piano labs & apps), Dalcrose Eurythmics in the Piano Studio, Rote Teaching, OnLine Lessons Academy and Playing with Pre-schoolers.
I am a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing, the Music Teacher's National Association and a charter member of the Speak Easy Cooperative, which is a Mentorship & Co-Working Cooperative created by and for independent Voice Teachers.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
There are 36 lessons given during the school year. Tuition for the month is $120. Monthly tuition secures the student's place in my Studio and includes a thirty minute lesson with piano or voice instruction, basic music knowledge, sight-singing, music games, ear training & music theory, movement and rhythm activities. Included in the semester are two public recitals and four Group Musicianship Classes where the students meet together (divided by age) on a Friday evening to perform for each other, play music games, learn about composers, etc.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching students as soon as I graduated from college, bought a house and a piano! Friends and neighbors were asking me to teach their children. Colleagues sent me students they did not have room for. And my Studio began to grow by word of mouth! When I had my first baby, I 'retired' from my public school music teaching job and kept my Studio teaching from my home.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught students from all ages - 5 year olds - senior adults. Most of my students right now range in age from 5 - 17, with a few adult voice and piano students.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My Studio held a Summer Music Camp Juy, 2017. Eight children ages 6-12 participated in the Camp. We had a blast with singing games, rhythm activities, Dalcroze movement activities, music listening and composer study!
My Studio also held a Voice Camp for Teen Girls on August 2017. Five teens girls ages 13 - 16 participated and learned breathing & posture, vocal warmups, beautiful tone, how to practice, singer's diction, technique - all while singing their favorite Broadway, folk, contemporary and art songs!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher with a good education, experience and one who loves children! Ask for a meeting with the teacher before making a committment. You'll know if the teacher is a good fit by the way they intereacgt with you or your child.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What is my goal in pursuing piano or voice instruction?
How much time do I have to practice and work on my goal?
What kind of music do I love?