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Pedagogy meets intuition.
Music lessons should be fun, so let me help you on your musical journey! Lessons derive from specialized foundational techniques that have been developed for all of the instruments and revolve with plenty of opportunities to make music your own. I utilize Pedagogy from the Suzuki method while adopting an understanding of music theory as I have developed on my own. I guide you to proficiency on your instrument. When you choose lessons Rain City Melodies, I guarantee you will enjoy playing your instrument as you learn!
Even if you don't play an instrument already, the following instruments are offered:
Unleash Your Inner Maestro
Community
Joining the Seattle community of string-players provides opportunities for collaboration and friendship. It’s not just about playing an instrument; it’s about being part of a vibrant, supportive community.
Life Skills
Learning to play the cello teaches discipline, patience, and perseverance. These are valuable skills that can be applied in all areas of life.
Unparalleled Elegance
The cello, with its rich and warm tones, is often considered the instrument closest to the human voice. Learning to play the cello allows you to express emotions and narratives in a deeply personal and unique way.
Brain Booster
Studies have shown that learning a musical instrument like the cello can enhance cognitive abilities, improve memory, and boost concentration levels. It’s not just an art; it’s a brain workout.
Emotional Well-Being
Playing the cello can be a great stress reliever. The focus required to play can help clear your mind and its beautiful, voice-like sound can soothe your soul.
Versatility
The cello is incredibly versatile. It’s used in a wide range of musical genres, from classical to jazz to pop. This opens up numerous opportunities for collaboration and performance.
Discover the Cello
Cello Lessons
Choose the cello!
I am a certified Suzuki cello trainer and the cello was my first formal instrument wherein I received instruction. I bring a vibrant blend of experience, passion, and innovation to every lesson. I thoroughly understand the technical and expressive possibilities of the cello, and know how to connect that knowledge to each student’s journey. We use age-appropriate method books tailored to individual learning styles, paired with our own three-tiered core skills routine—a structured yet flexible approach that I have developed alongside the Suzuki method. This unique system is designed to take students from foundational basics to confident intermediate and advanced playing, all while keeping lessons inspiring and accessible. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, I very much look forward to beginner Adult students, youth, and pretty much of any age. I love teaching the cello! Let me help you with clarity, creativity, and purpose.
Cognitive Benefits
Take your first steps
with the Suzuki Method
Emotional
Expression
Playing the violin sharpens your brain, enhancing memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. It's like a workout for your mind.
The violin's rich tones can convey a wide range of emotions, allowing you to express feelings that words alone can't capture.
Physical
Coordination
Violin playing improves fine motor skills and overall hand-eye coordination. This precision can benefit other areas of life.
Cultural Appreciation
Learning the violin exposes you to classical and contemporary music, enriching your understanding and appreciation of different musical traditions.
Social Connections
Joining orchestras, ensembles, or taking lessons provides opportunities to meet like-minded people and build a sense of community.
Personal Achievement
Learning to play the violin offers a deep sense of accomplishment and boosts your self-confidence as you progress and hit new milestones
Violin
Violin Lessons
Choose the Violin
In addition to the cello, I am also proficient on the violin. I offer a dynamic and supportive learning environment, combining technical expertise. Friendly to adult beginners, youth, and any age! I bring years of performance and teaching experience to each lesson with a tailored approach to meet the needs of every student. Because the Violin is such a discipline-focused instrument it remains a challenge for younger learners, but so far I've had great success using custom-designed course material that compliments the Suzuki method.
If the Suzuki method might prove to be too rigorous, don't worry! There are many age-appropriate method books to accompany fundamentals such as posture, and tone. Advanced technique and musical expression are what I aim for and I have a lot of resourceful tools to help you obtain a great tone from your violin, no matter your age.
This structured yet adaptable routine works for students no matter your starting point. Whether you’re a beginner holding the violin for the first time or an advancing player aiming to refine your craft, I am committed to helping you grow through meaningful, personalized instruction with the resources of an active composer.
Learn Audio Production
Sound Waves to Brain Waves
Cognitive Development
Learning audio production at a young age can enhance cognitive skills. It promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
Technological Literacy
In our digital age, being technologically literate is crucial. Audio production teaches young learners to navigate and utilize various software and hardware, preparing them for a tech-driven future.
Creativity and Innovation
Audio production is a playground for the imagination. It encourages young learners to experiment with sounds and create something uniquely their own.
Harmonizing the mind
Learning musical composition is not just about creating beautiful melodies. It’s a holistic approach to brain health, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. So, why not start composing your own cognitive symphony today?
Confidence and Self-expression
Creating their own audio pieces allows young learners to express themselves and their ideas. This boosts their confidence and helps them find their voice.
Teamwork and Collaboration
Audio production often involves working with others. This can teach young learners about cooperation, communication, and collaboration.
Audio Production
Audio Production Lessons
Audio production to me is pure fun. Lessons in this area are the perfect compliment for anyone who is looking to explore composition, or interested in creating music without needing to learn a traditional instrument.
These sessions will focus on music theory and provide you with the right tools to bring your ideas to life entirely within a digital audio workstation (DAW). You’ll explore the full creative process—from the spark of an idea to a fully produced track—using sample-based instruments, loops, and original compositions. Along the way, you’ll gain hands-on experience with editing, mixing, and mastering, so you can shape your music and achieve the exact sound you’re envisioning.
If you're already proficient in an instrument and want to learn how to record, I can guide you through that as well. We'll go over basic home-recording setup, how to create tracks, work with automation, and get you setup for making your own recordings.
Lessons are structured by step-by-step guidance in a fun, low-stress, and highly creative environment. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to expand your skills, you’ll learn how to navigate software tools, build solid musical foundations, and develop a professional workflow. I'll help you train your ears, refine your sound, and express your musical identity through technology. Contact me to learn more about this exciting program and check on current availability—I'd love to help you get started!
Learn How to Play the Piano
Your outlet for creative expression
Cognitive
Development
Learning to play the piano can enhance a child’s cognitive skills. It can improve memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities.
Emotional
Expression
The piano is a powerful tool for emotional expression. It can help children understand and express their feelings through music.
Best choice for
first instrument
The piano is often considered the best instrument to learn first for several reasons including how easy it is to produce a sound, and how the piano relates to almost any other instrument in regards to music theory.
Creativity
Playing the piano encourages creativity. Children can experiment with different sounds and compositions, fostering their creative thinking.
Discipline
and Patience
Mastering the piano requires practice and patience. These are valuable life skills that can benefit children in many aspects of life.
Confidence
Boosting
As children progress and improve, they gain confidence in their abilities. This can have a positive impact on their self-esteem.
Piano
Take piano lessons with me!
At Rain City Melodies music studio, I believe that the piano is the best instrument to begin with, and that everyone should have some basic knowledge about the piano. In terms of learning music theory, you can readily apply the knowledge learned from the piano and translate it to any instrument so as to better understand and more readily learn a given instrument.
Piano lessons at my studio are focused on getting you to playing as soon as possible. For adult learners, this includes a very step-by-step process that facilitates a compounding process where one concept builds upon the next. Each student has the choice of their direction after the basics are established, and can include classical, jazz, contemporary, pop, rock, and more.
My goal is to get each student enjoying playing music as quickly as possible. From years of experience and informal pedagogy passed down from seasoned teachers I have developed a unique technique that builds the core skills you need to become a confident pianist. As your instructor I will provide a solid framework that not only helps you master the basics but also sets the stage for rapid progress and lifelong enjoyment of the piano.
Of course of non-adult learners the piano is an excellent starting point. I have had success with toddlers from age 3+ by using my own color-based reading system combined with various other fundamental skills that borrow from the Suzuki method and my own personal developments. I am currently in the process of publishing my own book designed for teachers across the world to use that will be included with lessons with Rain City Melodies music studio.
I distinguish myself by combining traditional notation skills with modern technology to create a dynamic learning environment. Through interactive games and laser-focused one-on-one instruction, I make learning one of today’s most popular instruments both engaging, inspirational, and fun. My approach emphasizes the piano’s role as the cornerstone of music theory—equipping you with the ability to visualize complex musical concepts and understand the framework underlying virtually every instrument.
At Rain City Melodies music studio, it would be my pleasure to guide you through your adventures on the piano, whether you are a beginner, restarting, or looking to hone and develop your skills. I ensure that you will gain a comprehensive understanding of music and have a lot of fun along the way.
Guitar
Connect with a rich Musical Hertiage
Expressive Creativity
The guitar allows you to express your emotions and creativity through music. Whether you’re strumming chords, fingerpicking melodies, or shredding solos, the guitar provides a canvas for your artistic expression.
Stress Relief
Music has therapeutic effects, and playing the guitar can be a wonderful stress-reliever. Strumming away your worries or losing yourself in a beautiful melody can significantly reduce stress and anxiety.
Social Connection
Playing the guitar can bring people together. Imagine sitting around a campfire, playing your favorite songs with friends or joining a band. It’s a great way to connect with others who share your passion for music.
Versatility
The guitar is incredibly versatile. You can play classical, rock, blues, jazz, folk, or even experiment with electronic genres. Its adaptability means you’ll never run out of exciting styles to explore.
Brain Workout
Learning to play an instrument stimulates your brain. It improves memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. As you navigate chords, scales, and rhythm patterns, your brain forms new neural connections.
Personal Fulfillment
There’s a sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a musical instrument. Whether you’re playing for yourself or an audience, the feeling of progress and achievement is deeply fulfilling.
Strumming Sessions on the Guitar +
Ukulele
Get to Know the Guitar or Ukulele
With Rain City Melodies music studio, I will guide you on your journey for your six-stringed guitar. As an instructor, I will be happy to teach you from both classical and electric guitar styles. I pride myself in developing students who will become proficient in reading music, or tablature, and will be well-versed in chord dynamics. Whether you’re drawn to the rich harmonies of classical guitar or the electrifying sounds of modern rock, our tailored lessons ensure you gain the technical skills and theoretical understanding needed to excel.
Are you an adult picking up the guitar for the first time? No problem! Have you never had any kind of music lessons before!? No problem! Take my crash-course on guitar learning and I guarantee that in a few lessons I'll have you jamming out to your favorite songs.
I offer specialized programs in songwriting and explore various guitar styles to suit every musical taste. For those who prefer a more contemporary approach, our courses include a focus on guitar tablature, giving you the flexibility to learn in a way that resonates with your individual style. At Rain City Melodies music studio, I'm committed to nurturing your musical journey by providing a diverse and comprehensive curriculum that prepares you to express yourself confidently through the guitar.
I also offer ukulele lessons as part of a diverse curriculum. The program is designed for learners of all levels, ensuring fun and engaging instruction. Discover the joy of playing the ukulele with us and expand your musical horizons.
The Drums
Tap into your inner rhythm
Rhythm and Timing
Drumming is all about rhythm and timing. Learning to play the drums can significantly improve your sense of rhythm, which is beneficial not only in music but in everyday life as well.
Boosts Confidence
Mastering a new skill, such as drumming, can boost your confidence. This newfound confidence can spill over into other areas of your life, improving overall self-esteem.
Physical Fitness
Drumming is a physical activity that can help you stay fit and healthy. It’s a fun way to burn calories, improve coordination, and build strength.
Enhances Cognitive Abilities
Learning to play the drums can enhance your cognitive abilities. It improves concentration, boosts memory, and promotes creative thinking.
Stress Relief
Playing the drums can be a great stress reliever. The physical exertion and concentration required can help take your mind off other worries, providing a mental break and promoting relaxation.
Community and Camaraderie
Drumming can be a social activity. Whether you’re playing in a band or participating in a drum circle, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with others and be part of a community.
The Drumset
Get to Ready to Rock!
While my first formal instrument was the cello, my second instrument was the drumset. After taking a few years of lessons I began developing my own system for drumming and went on to perform the drums for audiences reaching the thousands. Drumming to me is an innate passion and if you're interested in other forms of percussion like bongos or djembe that is totally doable too.
Are you a beginner and have no idea about music? No problem! All of my instruction derives from some core fundamentals but gravitates to where you'd like to go and what you would like to be able to do or play along with.
The drumset is a very social instrument and more or less depends on playing with other musicians and so there's a little bit of general music theory included, so that lessons with me will educate a drummer enough to do basic composition, and to contribute to band-like situations where collaboration is included.
I am well-versed in a wide range of styles—from jazz to the lively beats of Samba to the raw energy of good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll, I emphasize everything from crafting powerful drum solos and mastering technical counting to exploring world percussion techniques. Each lesson is designed to build confidence and precision, with metronome training as a cornerstone but not overwhelming to ensure your chops will be sharper than ever and that you'll be ready to hold the groove and lay down your chops.
We take pride in fostering a collaborative, creative atmosphere where group dynamic education and jam sessions play a key role in the learning process. I highly encourage students to compose their own drum beats using traditional notation, blending technical skills with personal expression. Whether you’re a beginner, eager to discover your inner rhythm, or an aspiring drummer ready to elevate your performance... Rain City Melodies music studio is here to transform your drumming experience into a high-octane journey of self-discovery and musical mastery.
The Mozart Effect
"Music listening enhances or changes certain neural circuits, including the density of dendritic connections in the primary auditory cortex. The Harvard neuroscientist Gottfried Schlaug has shown that the front portion of the Corpus Callosum--the mass of fibers connecting the two cerebral hemispheres--is significantly larger in musicians than non musicians, and particularly for musicians who began their training early. This reinforces the notion that musical operations become bilateral with increased training, as musicians coordinate and recruit neural structures in both the left and right hemispheres."
Excerpt from Daniel Levitin's This is Your Brain on Music