Providing Online Music Lessons to Students K-12 and Beyond
Whether your child is interested in guitar lessons, piano lessons, keyboard lessons, drum and percussion lessons, bass lessons, brass lessons, voice lessons, songwriting or music production lessons, So i Heard Music offers it all online with a sensibility that is focused on the needs of the young music student.
We serve anywhere that has an internet connection!
LESSONS FOR EVERY LEVEL AND MUSICAL INTEREST.
Services
Music Lessons
Adapted Music Lessons
Group Private Lessons
Bands
Music Therapy
Early Childhood
Recording
Birthday Parties
Songwriting
Music Production
Instruments
Piano
Guitar
Bass
Drums
Brass
Strings
Voice
Online Lessons Teachers
Rebecca
Ruttle
Teacher
Bachelors of Music, Vocal Performance & Music Theatre, from Northwestern University
Piano, Voice, Music Theory
Ella Fitzgerald
Whitney Houston
Sara Bareilles
Heart
Sutton Foster
Audra McDonald
Charles Gounod
Richard Strauss
I am a graduate of Northwestern University with a degree in Vocal Performance and Musical Theatre. I have been singing for as long as I can remember. As my mom puts it, I was singing before I learned to speak. At a fairly young age, I developed an all-encompassing love for singing in many ways, including classical, musical theatre, and popular styles. My appetite for music grew from there as I took up piano lessons and continued them throughout my schooling. Shortly after graduating college, I moved to New York City and started a career in musical theatre. I have since performed in Manhattan, around the country, and on cruise ships. In 2019, I headlined a solo show at the Laurie Beechman Theatre in Manhattan that was reviewed by BroadwayWorld.com. The show was comprised of pop/rock hits throughout the decades. As a teacher, I believe I should always be learning as well. Currently, I am in the process of becoming certified with Estill Voice Training- studying the science behind the voice and how to apply it to create the most healthy, supported, and powerful sounds. My extensive study of many genres of singing, the piano, and the science of the voice offers a well-rounded and supported way into any style.Outside of teaching, I am committed to community outreach and work with a non-profit called A Slice of Hope which throws pizza parties with live music in homeless shelters across the country. I’ve seen music in this setting become a dynamic catalyst for hope.I am so passionate about teaching the love and artistry of the voice and the piano to students of all levels. Whether you’re starting your musical journey or continuing it, I look forward to meeting you!
My Approach to a Typical Lesson
My goal for every lesson is to create an enjoyable & safe learning environment where creativity and exploration are fostered. Every student learns differently and will have varied interests, so I structure my lesson plans accordingly.I come to each lesson with a well-rounded approach, no matter if I’m teaching the voice or the piano. Not only do we cover the fundamentals of the instrument and building repertoire, but we also cover music theory and musicianship. This includes reading music, sight-reading, musical expression of the song, and more.
My Advice for Students
My advice would be to enjoy learning! It takes time to hone a skill and patience is key. Have fun with the process and aim for exploration and creativity. Making new, exciting sounds is one of the best ways to find out who you truly are as an artist. It can inform the work you are already doing in new ways, help you discover a new love, or just push you to grow in your musicality.
My Favorite Local Places
I live in Jersey City and I am still discovering all it has to offer but I love Liberty State Park!
My Music
You can find some of my performances on my website:
https://www.rebeccaruttle.com/video-gallery.html
Amanda
F
Music Therapist, Front Desk, Teacher
William Paterson University (B.A.), Montclair State University (M.A.)
Music Therapy, Piano, Voice
My Chemical Romance, Nine Inch Nails, Lady Gaga, The Birthday Massacre, Celine Dion
My musical journey began the day I saw “The Lion King” in theaters. I heard the song “Circle of Life”, and decided I wanted to play it on my piano. When I got home, I sat down and recreated the song, and the rest was history. Music became my first and greatest love from that moment, and I’ve always known I wanted to do it for a living. I graduated from William Paterson University with a Bachelor’s degree in Music in 2016. In 2021, I graduated from Montclair State University with a Master’s degree in Music Therapy and became a Board Certified Music Therapist. I have experience treating a wide range of client populations, but my main clinical focus lies in working with children and adults with a variety of special needs.My philosophy as a music therapist is to provide my clients with plenty of opportunities for success. I want to build experiences that honor their abilities and prioritize their unique goals and needs. It is important that my clients have a safe space to enjoy music-making that is expressive and meaningful to them.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
I always want to ensure my students are learning repertoire that excites them, in an environment that’s safe, comfortable, and allows them to learn at their own pace. Learning music takes time and effort, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun!
My Advice For Students
Don’t give up! There will be plenty of times when it feels like your progress is slow, but it’s important to stick to consistent practice and remind yourself in those toughest moments that you can do it. Remember – I am always here to help out and answer any questions you have. Think of me as your co-pilot on your own musical adventure!
My Favorite Local Places
ManhattanDowntown MontclairAny local bubble tea shop (recommendations welcome!)
Brian
Z
Teacher
Master’s degree in composition from New York University
Piano, Guitar, Drums, Music Production, Songwriting
Aphex Twin, Tool, Nine Inch Nails, Holly Herndon, Philip Glass Ensemble
My foray into music began when I started recording music from video games via tape recorder back when I was six years old.
At the age of nine, I began studying percussion and grew serious about singing. By the end of high school, I knew studying music in college was imminent. My undergrad training brought me to the world of composition, which allowed me a wider spectrum of creativity. My obsession with rhythm now extended to harmony, texture, and timbre. Influences of Tool and Weather Report suddenly had to make room for Aphex Twin, Gyorgy Ligeti, and Joni Mitchell. I joined multiple bands while in college. First as a drummer, then as a drummer/composer.
After undergrad, I moved to NYC to attend NYU and obtain a master's degree in composition, where I studied under the tutelage of Julia Wolfe. Never content with restricting myself to one medium, I slowly veered away from concert music and into electronic music. I began releasing albums under the moniker Liezer in 2013.
In June of 2021 I formed “Liezer Ensemble” so I could have a band to perform my electronic music live. In addition, I joined the Indie-pop band “Reliant Tom” as a drummer in October of 2021.
My work now routinely spreads across multiple mediums. My continued work in experimental electronic music combines with work for video games, film, and concert music. I now routinely record myself as a drummer and work with friends and colleagues on writing songs and performing them live.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
I always work to instill the fundamentals of the instrument/skill when working with the student. However, I understand that we all learn differently, so I try hard to find what works best for each student. This might mean
chatting about music or jamming in a silly way together. My goal is to get the student to the place where they don’t need me to help them, and they can continue learning by teaching themselves!
My Advice For Students
The “Three P’s” are my advice. Patience, persistence, and practice. Work hard to get better, but know that it will take some time. Rome wasn’t built overnight.
My Favorite Local Places
I actually liver in Maywood, NJ. I enjoy hiking at Bear Mountain occasionally!
My Music
I go under the moniker “Liezer” and you can find my latest album on Spotify.
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7naQdU6McIBIGsplgxA 1mx?si=UtvLhS_LQcmNS7oV-ODVag
Monica
L
Music Therapist, Front Desk, Teacher
Montclair State University
Music Therapy, Piano, Guitar, Voice
Kimbra, Ella Fitzgerald, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Quee
I am a graduate of Montclair State University where I studied Health Communication and received a minor in Musical Theater. I developed my love for making music after being given the mic on a karaoke machine to sing ABBA’s “Dancing Queen” as a child at a family party. I grew up in a musical environment; my father sang and played guitar and my brother accompanied him on piano. Music has always been my avenue for self-expression and I feel like meaningful relationships are developed through sharing and exploring an artist’s work together. Music has helped me navigate through life’s accomplishments and challenges and thus inspired me to pursue my master’s in Music Therapy. I hope to help others utilize the music experience as a means to overcome obstacles and promote wellness.
My approach to a Typical Lesson
Having fun and encouraging play! Play offers an opportunity to try out different sounds, see what works, and ultimately discover what might need more attention. It’s also important to consider the student’s goals, needs, and music they enjoy listening to. I feel that progress is supported when a student has a beneficial experience that accommodates their needs and involves preferred music.
My advice for students
Listen to music that you love, allow yourself to be moved by it, and be patient. I find that listening to how your most influential artists write music can help develop a sense of what you really like and what you want to work towards. Learning how to sing or play an instrument takes time and there might be mistakes along the way, but it’s important to keep trying!
My favorite local places
Movie theaters like the Clairidge in Montclair. When I’m not making music, I enjoy watching a good thriller or horror movie. I also love walking around Palmer Square in downtown Princeton during Christmas time. It reminds me of performing Handel’s Messiah in Richardson Auditorium with Montclair State University Singers and New Jersey Symphony Orchestra!
Ceili
Spaulding
Front Desk, Teacher
Berklee College of Music
Piano, Guitar, Voice, Music Production, Music Theory, Songwriting
Originally from the forests of Maine, I started taking guitar lessons at the age of 11, piano at 14, and singing since the beginning! After receiving a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music, I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Songwriting in 2019. Songwriting is my passion, but teaching has quickly become my calling! I am also a producer and love crafting live performances using my preferred digital audio workstation, Ableton Live.
I work with my students to create a customized songwriting experience. I truly believe that studying music and creating songs is a powerful way to express emotions while still having fun! Everyone moves at their own pace, and I’m willing to meet my students wherever they’re at to help them grow their artistry.
My Approach to a Typical Lesson
There are so many tools and techniques to learn, so many fundamentals and skills to practice. Still, I always want to make sure the focus is placed on my student’s interests to ensure a positive, fun, and encouraging learning environment. Every child learns differently. It’s my job as a teacher to find the best method to help them retain new information.
My Advice for Students
Never be afraid to fail! We learn so much about ourselves when we get back up, keep practicing, and prove to ourselves that we can preserver. Putting yourself or your art out into the world for others to judge may seem scary, but if we let fear win, we risk the chance of missing out on some of the most beautiful and memorable moments, both on stage and in real life! Believe in yourself enough to keep trying no matter the outcome!
My Favorite Local Places
I love being on the beach or by the shore and nature walking trails that remind me of home.
My Music
I released my debut album, Sweet Blue, my junior year of high school in 2014. I’m excited to announce that my next project in the works and almost done! You can find some of my new material and live performances on my YouTube page.
Jennifer
Fischer
Music Therapist, Teacher
Berklee College of Music
Music Therapy, Piano, Guitar, Voice
Regina Spektor
Laura Marling
Jenny Lewis
Pink Floyd
Radiohead
I graduated from Berklee College of Music with a Bachelor's degree in music therapy, and became a board certified music therapist in 2015. I became a certified Neurologic Music Therapist in 2017, after attending the Neurologic Music Therapy Institute at the University of Toronto. As a music therapist I have experience working with various populations with a range of diagnoses, however I specializes in working with children and adults with special needs.
I have studied voice, piano, ukulele and guitar for over 15 years, focusing on folk and classic rock music. As a music teacher I work with many young students on instrument proficiency while incorporating songwriting into lessons as a therapeutic tool. I joined the So i Heard team in 2016 as a music therapist, as well as a piano, voice, and ukulele teacher.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
I think the best way for a child to learn is for their musical interests to be front and center. A typical lesson is flexible - generally revolving around what the child wants to learn - but will always focus back to music fundamentals. I often use other instruments like drums and xylophone to teach music theory concepts, and motivating games to keep the child engaged.
My Advice For Students
I would say that music is fun, but that it can sometimes be challenging! The key is to keep trying, and through practice you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
My Favorite Local Places
Nature walks and hiking trails
Coffee shops
My Music
I write and perform my own music, which is available on Spotify and bandcamp!
I am also in an all-girl band called Boy Band, also available on Spotify.
Diego
Bussenius
Teacher
Berklee Online
Piano, Guitar, Bass, Music Production
James Yancey
James Jamerson
Paul McCartney
Tom Jobim
Herbie Hancock
My love for music began at a young age when my father would share his love for funk music with my brother and I. He loved the music of groups like Parliament and Jamiroquai and it rubbed off on me at a young age.
In my teens I would teach myself how to play different instruments through instructional books/DVDs from the public library and playing in bands with friends; but I had been studying for a career in architectural design. After high-school, I felt that my heart was completely in music, so I abandoned architecture and got a job to pay my way through Berklee Music for Music Production.
Since graduation, I have been recording local acts from Rock, Pop, to Hip Hop and investing all the revenue back into the studio. This has taught me many valuable lessons about the entire music production process; from having the first idea of a song to officially releasing it to the world and every step in-between.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
While teaching music lessons, my main goal is to cultivate a love for music that carries through the years. Like English conveys ideas, music is a language of emotions, and I hope to instill the desire to speak that language to all my students. By flexing our creative muscles through constant creation, the theory and the technicalities become a goal for the student to facilitate the expression of music they feel inside.
My Advice For Students
To learn any language we must immerse ourselves in the world of that language. My advice is to immerse into the world of music by listening, studying, practicing, and playing as often as we can. We become what we do, so if we play music everyday, we are music.
My Favorite Local Places
So i Heard Music, and not just because I work there! It's honestly a very inspirational place to see all my colleagues and their pupils achieves so much.
Besides that I'd say my house.
My Music
I am currently establishing a record label where all my future projects will live. Stay Tuned!
www.protunerecords.com
Gabriel
Ivanov
Teacher
Berklee College of Music
Piano, Guitar, Music Production, Music Theory, Songwriting
Thomas Newman
Sam Smith
Brian Culberston
John Williams
Dropkick Murphys
I was always interested in learning to play an instrument. When I was seven years old I began taking classical piano lessons. I stuck with classical lessons until high school, when I began to branch out into other styles including: pop, jazz, contemporary, and cinematic. I became especially interested in cinematic music and decided to pursue this in college. I graduated with a degree in Film Scoring from Berklee College of Music in 2017. Since then, I have worked on multiple student and independent films. I also have worked as a freelance composer in New York City writing music for television commercials.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
Music can and should be an enjoyable hobby to have and develop for the rest of your life. I give my students control over their lessons. I am only interested in teaching the types of music and techniques my students are interested in. This is key to having fun and finding the motivation to keep practicing.
My Advice For Students
Don't be shy about expressing your likes and dislikes to me during the lesson. Remember, this is YOUR lesson. We can steer each one in the direction you are excited and curious to go. I am most interested in helping you achieve your musical goals.
My Favorite Local Places
The Raptor Trust bird rescue in Millington by the Gillette location.
The Paper Mill Playhouse.
The closest Dunkin' to Millburn or Gillette. Best way to start the day!
My Music
Most recently I have been focused on writing music for commercials. I think it is very interesting as it challenges you to write in just about every musical style there is while trying to keep it to only 15 or 30 seconds long.
Tim
Schwerdt
Music Therapist, Teacher
Berklee College of Music
Music Therapy, Guitar, Drums, Bass, Music Production
Led Zeppelin
Muse
Gojira
Rage Against the Machine
Stevie Wonder
I grew up playing and exploring as many instruments as possible to get a feel for the language and nature of music. As an informed multi-instrumentalist, I pursued an education in the Recording Arts in order to understand how to be a producer and engineer. My explorations taught me that a huge passion of mine is relating to others on a more personal level. As such, I furthered my education to become a Music Therapist. My life mission is to help others achieve their goals through music.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
I like to ask students to share with me the type of music that most interests them. Preferences guide the learning journey every day and can especially inspire us to continue persevere through difficult challenges.
My Advice For Students
Listen to music every day. Find out exactly what appeals to you and what doesn't so you can talk to a teacher or mentor about how to best help you along your musical journey.
My Favorite Sources of Inspiration
I find inspiration from being in nature and with people. I love meeting new people and helping them along their musical journey anyway I can. I go to concerts about three times a month to discover new artists, and support musicians I already listen to. Movie and Video games are also hugely important sources of music. I find myself exploring YouTube for content from all around the world to share with others.
Jeremy
Freeman
Teacher
Wesleyan University
Piano, Guitar, Drums, Bass, Music Production, Music Theory, Songwriting
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Steve Wilson
Radiohead
The Strokes
The Punch Brothers
I graduated from Wesleyan University in 2018 with a degree in Music. I have always been obsessed with rock music, and after playing classical piano for several years as a kid, I began to dabble in guitar and drums at age 13 after becoming inspired to pursue music from my obsession with Guitar Hero and Rock Band. After playing guitar, bass, and drums in several pit bands and rock bands throughout high school and college, as well as studying and performing a variety of music ranging from avant-garde jazz to West African music at Wesleyan, I pushed my composition and songwriting abilities in my senior year of college. Working with a 13-piece band and performing on guitar, bass, mandolin and vocals, I wrote a progressive rock concept album, arranged it for performance, and recorded and released it as the capstone project for my music degree.
Since graduation, I have been playing lead guitar in my band, The Racquets. We have written, recorded and released our debut EP, and have been supporting it with performances in New York City. My music experience also includes interning in marketing and publicity at several major labels, sound designing a short film, performing for students with cerebral palsy and starting a music program at an after school program and camp.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
While music lessons traditionally focus on memorizing pieces and drilling scales, my lessons focus on developing students' music theory skills, instrumental technique and practice approaches, so they can take on musical challenges with confidence. These skills are then guided towards songwriting and composition on instruments and in recording software. My goal in teaching is to help students discover a passion for music, provide them with the tools to explore their creativity, and above all, have fun!
My Advice For Students
Practice regularly (frequent, rather than lengthy practice) - Playing music is like learning to walk or talk. The more days you pick up your instrument, the better you will get! Even if you only play for a few minutes each day, you will get really good! Remember that music is supposed to be fun! Even exercises that seem boring can always be turned into fun creative opportunities!
My Favorite Local Places
The Great Swamp near Morristown.
The Orange Reservoir (next to the Boathouse and Turtle Back Zoo)
The Wellmont Theater in Montclair (where I saw my first concert).
My Music
I play lead guitar in an indie/garage rock band called The Racquets. Our band started at Wesleyan University, playing intimate house shows to college kids. Since graduation, we perform in New York City and have recorded and released our debut EP, The Racquets, which can be found on Spotify and most other major streaming services.
I also wrote and recorded a rock opera with a friend for my senior capstone project at Wesleyan. Lyrically, the album is from the perspective of a person exploring the highs and lows of friendships, as well as the role that speech plays in all of this. The album was designed to be heard as a whole, in order of the track list. The instrumentation is vast, containing vocals, guitar, bass, drums, piano, synthesizers, electronic production, mandolin, violins, violas and cellos. This album can be found on Spotify and most other major streaming services as well.
Angelica
Firetto
Teacher
Kean University
Piano, Voice, Flute, Clarinet, Violin
Billy Joel
The Black Keys
The Backstreet Boys
George Frideric Handel
Tchaikovsky
I am a singer/songwriter, pianist, and producer. Music has always been a part of my life, as I remember listening to Billy Joel CDs in the car and dancing to the latest hits of my time as a child. In May 2020, I will hold a B.M. in Music Education from Kean University. Having the opportunity to study both piano and voice at Kean’s Conservatory of Music, I am a well-rounded musician that has performed at various concerts with the Kean University Choir in Enlow Hall as well as choir tours throughout the East Coast. In addition, I have performed in concerts with Kean's Percussion Ensemble and the Symphonic Wind Ensemble.
As an independent singer-songwriter, I produce all my music at my home studio. In May 2012, I became a finalist in the New Jersey Shout Down Drugs Songwriting Competition. I performed my song "Just Trust Yourself" at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, sending out a positive message and explaining the dangers of substance abuse. In 2014, I was invited again to perform "Just Trust Yourself" at the Red Ribbon Prevention Links Walk. I am also an artist - I paint with acrylics - when I'm not in the studio or performing.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
My typical approach to a lesson is to first ask the student the genre of music he or she is interested in. Once a genre is set, I have the student learn music from the method book and from my personal favorite website called 8notes.com. On this site, there is countless repertoire for any instrument of choice, and it labels difficulty for each song. I discovered this site several years ago when I needed free sheet music of a pop song for a singing competition. I also like to incorporate technology with the lesson, especially for vocalists. My current voice students enjoy singing karaoke and recording a cover to their favorite songs on GarageBand. For vocalists, pianists, and instrumentalists alike, I always incorporate music theory, such as scales, arpeggios, and chord progressions to the lessons.
My Advice For Students
Always challenge yourself! I tend to assign one or two songs that are a level above the current level of the student so that they can critically think about the structure of the music. I introduce the components of the song, such as the key it is in and the chord progressions that occur, so that students have a baseline and can practice with these first few steps.
My Favorite Local Places
Liberty State Park
Red Mill
Mindowaskin Park
My Music
I have released two singles to the world, "Thinking About You" and "It Should Be About Us," that are both available on Spotify.
I have additional songs on YouTube!
Aaron
Geusic
Front Desk, Teacher
Kean University
Piano, Guitar, Drums, Voice, Music Theory
The Beatles
Patternist
Queen
Ben Platt
The Moody Blues
I have received my B.M. in Music Performance and Pedagogy from Kean University in Union NJ. My primary instrument is voice but I am a multi-instrumentalist who is proficient in guitar and piano as well. I have had various experiences performing both solo and in groups including but not limited to multiple performances with the Woodbridge Community Players (shows include West Side Story as a Shark, Little Shop of Horrors as Seymour and Cabaret as Herr Schulz), The Kean University Choir, and with my band “The Wednesdays.” I teach voice, drums, music theory, beginner piano, and more!
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
My typical approach to teaching lesson's is as follows: I would greet the student, ask about their week and lead them in a short physical stretch. After stretching would be a short five minute warm up. At this point I would either introduce a new piece or review old music, having the student sing through the piece and making mistakes along the way. When finished, I would pinpoint any particular sections giving the student any trouble.
My Advice For Students
The one way to improve on your instrument is to practice everyday! It may seem impossible but all it takes is 10 minutes a day! You must be willing to put in the work to achieve greatness!
My Favorite Local Places
New York City in any theater
M Uncle's front porch
My Basement studio
My Music
Aaron also performs in a band called "The Wednesdays." Their music can be found on Spotify.
Rob
Fragnito
Teacher
The Collective School of Music
Piano, Guitar, Drums, Voice
The Beatles
Radiohead
Beethoven
Miles Davis
John Bonham
I am a multi-instrumentalist specializing in Drums, Piano, Guitar, Voice, and Music Production. I have been playing drums since I was 12 and piano since I was 8. I have performed in many different bands as a drummer, keyboardist and songwriter/singer. I have a lot of experience performing on stage and working in recording studios. I graduated from Music College in a degree in performance and music theory. I have been teaching for many years and love to share my passion and knowledge with my students.
I have studied many different genres. From jazz and rock to classical and funk. I personally like to combine all styles and create music that is interesting and innovative. Also, having a good beat and catchy melody is most important! I think it's important to be influenced by many different styles and sounds. I look to instill this in my students and encourage them to think outside the box and explore different types of music that they normally wouldn't listen to.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
Whether you're a beginner or experienced I like to start slow and get a sense of the instrument. We do this through fun warmups! For me it's all about music so I also try to get a sense of what kind of music the student enjoys. Listening to songs and understanding what the musicians are doing is a great way to becoming better at your chosen instrument.
My Advice For Students
Remember music is all about having fun. Relax, it's okay to make mistakes. Actually making mistakes is the only way to get better.
My Favorite Local Places
Rockwood Music Hall
Newark Museum
Smalls Jazz Club
QXT's Night Club
The MET
My Music
I currently play in a band called Moon Rabbit Retreat. If this doesn't showcase my skill set,I don't know what will. In the band I play drums, keyboards and sing. It's easier than it sounds!
Angela
Hendryx
Teacher
Wheaton College, Bard College
Piano, Voice, Music Theory
Roberta Flack
Lorraine Hunt Lieberson
The Beatles
Richard Strauss
John Adams
I am a graduate of the Bard College Conservatory of Music Graduate Vocal Arts Program in New York, designed and led by world-renowned soprano Dawn Upshaw. While at Bard I was featured as soloist with the Albany Symphony. Additional recital work included producing my own one woman show, Bond, and co-producing a recital of folk inspired music with my peers.
This season I have been selected to participate in the Aquilon Music Festival’s production of Così fan tutte as Dorabella (understudy). I attended the Berlin Opera Academy in 2018 where I sang La Virtù in L’incoronazione di Poppea directed by David Paul.
My awards include the National Association of Teachers of Singing competition as the 2016 Chicago Chapter Division Winner, the 2015 Midwest Region Honorable Mention, and the 2014 Illinois Chapter Division Winner.
I am devoted to community outreach through recital work, and continue to bring music to audiences with limited musical exposure, having sung often for nursing home residents, middle school and high school students, and bringing an opera to a correctional facility with my colleagues at Wheaton. Most recently I performed works of Ives, Bolcom, Monteverdi and Rossini in recitals in New York.
My Approach To A Typical Lesson
My goal in each lesson is to provide a fun space to explore music and gain new creative and analytical skills in the context of music. Each lesson is split between warm-ups and theory exercises such as scales on the piano, and then repertoire work such as pop arrangements or classical pieces from a work book. Vocal lessons similarly, begin with breathing and vocal warm ups before moving to a specific song in a genre of the student's choice. It's important to me that student's help select the piece or song they work on. In addition to reading music, arranging music and the technical execution of their instrument, I work with each student on communicating the meaning of the selection.
My Advice For Students
Pick one thing to focus on at a time! Music has so many amazing layers and components. It's very rewarding to have many small successes in your journey as musician. My other tip is to always have fun! If you can't enjoy the music you are listening to or working, try switching it up.
My Favorite Local Places
Local sources of inspiration for me are Cocoluxe in Gladstone has ome of the tastiest and most inspiring French buttercream you can find and the trails at Natirar. The Matisse room at MOMA in NYC, and the 18th century interior design rooms at the Met are also favorite inspiration spots of mine.
My Music
One of my favorite songs to sing was a signature song of my mentor, Dawn Upshaw. She introduced me to it and helped me bring it to life for the first time. This song has a special way of capturing the bittersweet feelings of anticipated change. You can see it below or on my website at www.angelahendryx.com.
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