About
I have been playing cello for over 35 years and music has always been a passion for me. I have had a successful professional carreer in financial services but always played cello. It wasn't until very late in my life that I went back to school and got a music degree.
Every student has very specific needs and I taylor make a lesson plan that will meet those needs. Above all, I know how difficult it can be to learn an instrument at any age and I work with the student to overcome their weakneses while improving and utilizing their strenghts.
I play professionally in two symphonies and I am an adjunct professor of music teaching string quartet at a university in Kerrville. I travel to students and teach at several schools in the San Antonio area.
I am a member of;
The American String Teachers Association
Texas Music Educators Association
San Antonio Musicians Society
The National Society of Leadership and Success
I enjoy watching students improve no matter how slowly they are progressing. The mental benefits of learning to play an instrument is enourmous.
Specialties
Instrument(s)
Experience level
Students age
Interest(s)
Lesson length
Reviews
AJ R.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I sit with a student and just talk about why they like about music, why they like the cello and what their goal is in learning to play.
Then I just play some pieces for them to watch how I play and then have them try to just sit comfortably behind the cello and work slowly at the basics.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BA in Music performance and I am currently working on an MBA in Music Business through Southern New Hampshire University and Berklee College of Music.
I have been taught privately by the principle cellist of the Chicago Symphony and the Boston Pops.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I ususally charge $45 to $50 an hour depending if the student comes to me or if I have to meet them in the home, school or a local violin shop.
I take cash or checks and will charge per lesson or for a block of 4 lessons at a time.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching when several people asked me to teach them after they saw and heard me perform.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students as young as 7 years old and my oldest student is 70 years old.
Adult beginners are welcome and encouraged to try the cello.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The best advice I can give is to listen to yourself and be sure you are comfortable with the teacher. If you find yourself getting overly nervous because you feel the teacher is negative or is overly critical then it might be time to look for another teacher.
I really feel bad when I see a student cry after a studio performance. The idea is to ENJOY music, not get uptight about. Just because you are not the best musician doesn't mean you are less of a person. Its wonderful that anyone even tries!!