WHAT IS THE SHINING HUMAN TEACHING METHOD?
Anyone can teach you how to copy a song from a Youtube video or AI program, but it takes a specific and skilled approach to unlock your musical awareness and independence so you can go forth and create music on your own - without doubt or uncertainty.
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In order to grow your inner artist, you need a specially designed plan and roadmap centered around you and your strengths, that is solid yet flexible enough to fit around your unique learning style so you can blaze forward in tapping into your musical capabilities. This map isn’t set in stone - it changes as you evolve and grow.
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That’s where the Shining Human Teaching Method comes in.
My unique skill set, training, and background allows me to plot a strong and viable course for you from wherever you are in your musical journey - beginning, intermediate, or advanced - always in a friendly way that keeps you inspired and excited to learn and feel encouraged. After all, learning is an adventure; excitement and motivation comes from taking those steps to get started.
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A good teacher is a bridge between a student and their potential.
It’s my job to get you out of your own head with music and ready to go forth on your own, trusting in your own knowledge and ability. I simply shape the road and break the uncertainty of not knowing if you can, guiding you through the discovery process, adapting to your needs and adjusting your plan to help you reach your full potential. I like to incorporate play to learn how best to work with you as the student; there’s no way to fail in our lessons, but only signs to switch to new directions in the compass of learning.
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I was given my certification to teach voice by Seth Riggs (celebrated vocal teacher to Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder) in 2013, and since then I’ve continued to join yearly workshops and events in order to deepen my vocal and teaching education. Because I’ve had the opportunity to study with some of the most sought after vocal teachers in the industry, I’m able to combine what I have learned from these intense studies with the real-world lessons that I have gained by recording my music albums. The hours of working in pro studio environments and getting feedback from producers and engineers adds a powerful dimension that I am able to draw from when working with a student.
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Because I’m also a performer, I also like to provide first-hand knowledge of the best ways to navigate the stage and connect with your audience. I keep myself up to date through continued education so that I can make sure that I’m always pushing the envelope and reflecting on the methodologies that best serve you and allow you to access your greatest vocal freedom and potential.
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The 3 keys to the Pinder approach curriculum
I use my experience teaching hundreds of students, from ages 3 to 93, to help you understand your unique strengths and goals. As an educator and facilitator, I ensure you have the tools you need to carve your path of growth.
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I offer individualized instruction that is specific. I consistently assess your progress, outlining pitfalls, identifying areas of growth, and helping you fine-tune every aspect of what you’re doing to achieve results.
Learning is an adventure, and you the student play an active role. I help you become aware of what you’re learning and find meaning in it, challenging you to practice this knowledge in new ways that go beyond old skill sets.
MY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE HAVE MADE ONE THING CLEAR: EVERYONE CAN UNLOCK THE JOY AND MAGIC OF MUSIC IN THEIR LIVES.
LESSONS AND RATES
Tuition is $220 for 4 intensive, 30-minute private lessons. Why does it come in a pack of 4 instead of a one off lesson? Because I believe it takes time and detailed work to get to know your needs as my student and plot the best path for you. Having enough time together ensures we make real, tangible progress. During our lessons, in a low pressure and friendly learning environment, you will gain the tools you need to improve your skills.​
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There are no contracts, so if you don’t feel we are a fit after our 4 sessions, you can easily cancel with no penalties or fees.
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Learning piano as an adult initially felt daunting! Due to a chronic disability, I wasn't able to leave the house much during the pandemic. Studying piano remotely gave me an unexpected outlet. Though I began with almost no exposure to music theory or instruction, I have felt supported and guided by Mike as an instructor each step of the way. I have enjoyed the flexibility to choose some of my favorite songs to learn, but also the push to stretch and find new ways to absorb information. Mike is a talented musician and he keeps the energy level high and the lessons fun!! My initial expectation was to try and learn a few easy holiday songs over the course of a year. I am now in my third year and truly relish in the feeling of sitting at my keyboard and playing a song!
Corinna D.
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WHO ARE THESE LESSONS FOR?My lessons are catered for students of all levels and all ages, who are looking to improve or hone in on both their skill and creative aptitude. I love working with students who are open to the process, and want to build on their own potential. In my lessons, we do more than just learn how to play songs by rote - we work on making songs and music your own, finding your own voice and unique creativity.
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WHAT KIND OF LESSONS DO YOU OFFER?I provide voice and guitar lessons! So, whether you’re working on vocal strength or mastering the guitar, I’ve got you covered with the latest strategies and techniques to get you where you want to be.
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DO I NEED TO HAVE EXPERIENCE?No, everyone is welcome to sign up for lessons with me! I work with students of all levels and all ages - as long as you have a strong desire to learn and a passion for music, I’ll be able to work with whatever you’re bringing to your first lesson.
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ARE YOUR LESSONS IN A GROUP?My lessons are one-on-one, which allows me to give in-depth, individualized guidance. I personalize each of my students’ learning experiences to fit their individual needs and learning styles. This means together, we’ll be adapting your lessons to get you blazing through the curriculum and reaching your musical goals even faster!
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HOW DO YOU CONDUCT LESSONS?Most of my lessons are through Skype or Zoom, however I do in-person as well. You can learn more about that here. (you can ignore this line of text since Michael has not sent me details)