Lessons LINKS

Education LINKS

Education

PIANO

Nancy Rost
PianoNancy Rost took piano lessons back in the 1960s and '70s, but her more formative education came in the 1980s when she began sitting in at piano bars and busking with a blues band. Inspired by her hands-on experience and independent study of music theory, in 1988 she developed an "Instant Piano" course for adults. She specializes in teaching students to play by ear and improvise, whether playing solo, accompanying their voice, or playing with others. An award-winning and prolific songwriter in jazz, pop/rock, blues and folk genres, Nancy strives to share a creative, fun approach to learning piano. Nancy currently performs as a solo singer-songwriter and with Banned Wagon, and records with a variety of collaborators, most recently the acoustic trio Likely Stories. Her students have gone on to study music in college, to compose, perform and record, and to share music with their grandchildren.

Jourdan Jourdan Hines
Piano, Guitar, SaxophoneJourdan began studying music when he was just seven years old. He received an A.A.S. in Music Production from McNally Smith College of Music and a B.S. in Music Theory and Composition from UW-La Crosse. In addition to teaching privately Jourdan works as a freelance musician, recording engineer and graphic designer. He performs regionally with a variety of groups and as a solo artist.

Teaching since 2002, Jourdan's goal is to empower each student with musical knowledge and the skills needed to be a successful musician. The path taken to achieve this goal is individualized and is based upon the student’s goals, whether it be a professional career in music or an enjoyable personal hobby to share with friends and family. In addition to instrument-specific training, Jourdan also teaches music theory, composition and recording technology. He strives to make music a positive and rewarding experience that will last a lifetime. Full Bio (pdf)
www.jourdanhines.com

Alison Margaret
Piano, VoiceAlison Margaret’s relationship with music is both deep and broad, spanning the continuum between performance and formal education. She hails from Chicago, where she studied at the prestigious Columbia College, earning a degree in vocal jazz performance. She has a master’s of music with a focus on jazz performance and education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Ms. Margaret has been a music educator for over 15 years. In addition to holding a private studio of approximately 25 students, she also teaches group piano and music theory courses at Madison College. Her educational philosophy is rooted in inclusive schooling concepts and she welcomes students with unique learning styles and music interests. Ms. Margaret is an accomplished classical and jazz pianist. Throughout 2009 and 2010, she performed Keith Jarrett's 1975 Koln Concert in Madison, Rockford, and Syracuse. As a vocalist, Ms. Margaret leads the “Alison Margaret Jazz Quartet.” The group has performed at Madison’s Jazz at 5 Festival, Milwaukee's 3rd Ward Jazz Festival, Monona Terrace, the Brink Lounge, Opus Lounge, and a host of other venues. Alison has also performed at many famous Chicago jazz haunts and festivals, including the Green Mill, the Hot House, Jazz Showcase, and the Navy Pier. www.alisonmargaret.com

Peter Baggenstoss
PianoPeter was born in northern Minnesota where he began playing piano at the age of five. He attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he received a bachelor's degree in Piano Performance. Since moving to Madison, Peter has had the opportunity to perform and tour with many groups, and currently he plays with several ensembles of varying styles. Along with being classically trained, Peter also has ample experience studying and performing jazz, blues, pop, world music, and other genres. Peter welcomes students of all ages and skill levels and enjoys helping students achieve their musical goals. As a teacher, he is patient and enthusiastic. While providing a strong foundation in theory and technique, he is able to cater to an individual's musical interests.

Olivia Ferguson
Piano, VoiceOlivia has been teaching piano since 2004. She studied piano privately for 13 years before attending college. At Michigan State she worked as a collaborative pianist, accompanying singers for recordings, auditions, recitals, juries, and other performances. She has also served for many years as a church pianist, playing hymns, accompanying the choir and soloists, and leading the praise and worship team. Olivia believes the study of piano is essential for any serious musician. In lessons she focuses heavily on theory and chord recognition as well as the importance of good sight reading skills; these skills equip the student for a lifetime of making the music he or she loves. She believes that technique is best taught through pieces the student will enjoy, and tries to find music that is both a technical challenge and a joy for the student to play.

GUITAR

Lee PaynEGuitar, Electric BassBorn with a passion for music, Lee has been playing instruments for as long as he can remember. He earned his BA at UW-Madison in Musical Performance in 2000 with a focus on classical guitar and jazz studies. His studies also included extensive theory training. Lee has been playing guitar since 1992 and has played with original bands and a few cover rock bands. Some venues include The Barrymore Theatre, Memorial Union Terrace, and Summerfest. He has been teaching guitar lessons privately since 1999 and in group settings since 2004. As a mentor, he focuses on individual development of musicians as well as preparing students for group dynamics in the future. Each curriculum is personalized so students can reach their own goals as quickly as possible.
Lee believes that every person should get the opportunity to have a fulfilling relationship with music, whether it is casual or professional.

Chris SchultzGuitarChris has been surrounded with music most of his life. His grandparents were music educators and had him start piano lessons at age 6. Then, at 13, after listening to arguably too much Metallica, he was inspired to take up the guitar, and start a band. Chris has toured the Midwest and shared the stage with bands ranging from Mudvayne, Disturbed, and The Dillinger Escape Plan. He currently plays music ranging from acoustic to aggressive metal in several Madison based bands and understands the details of dynamic, aggressive music. As an instructor, Chris has taught all styles and ages. He prefers an individualized approach (everyone's different, right?), teaching everything from note reading, tablature, popular music, song writing, beginning to advanced theory and technique. Above all, he believes having fun can be the greatest motivator and is the most important part of playing music. Full Bio (pdf)

Shane KeckGuitarShane started teaching himself guitar in 1997 and went on to receive a BFA in Guitar Performance from UW-Whitewater in 2005. He has toured nationally with several rock bands, recorded seven albums and shared a stage with national touring acts Motorhead, Black Label Society, Corrosion of Conformity and Clutch. Shane has taught electric and acoustic guitar full time in the southern Wisconsin region since 2002. He teaches all ages and levels, from complete beginners to accomplished musicians looking to take their technique to the next level. Specializing in rock, metal, southern rock and blues, Shane is well versed in a variety of styles and caters his curriculum to his students' interests and goals. Students learn music theory, technique, improvisation and how to read music, all the while playing the songs and styles they love. Past students have successfully auditioned into school jazz ensembles, toured in bands, signed record deals, and gone on to start their own private lesson studios.

Jim GerbigGuitar, Brass, Woodwinds Jim holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Instrumental Music Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and has worked with all levels of Brass and Woodwind students since 1982. In addition, he has been a private studio guitar and bass guitar teacher since 1977. Equally at home playing Rock, Jazz, and Fusion styles, he especially enjoys helping rock guitarists make the transition to playing in their school jazz ensemble.

He has coached hundreds of band students to Superior and Excellent ratings in Solo/Ensemble performances, from individuals and small ensembles to full jazz band and concert band events. In addition, he has worked with students on all instruments to improve their improvisational skills and working knowledge of Music Theory.

With over 30 years of studio teaching experience, Jim prides himself on finding the right approach to guide any student in realizing their potential, on whatever their instrument of choice. Full Bio (pdf)

Louka PatenaudeGuitar, Electric BassLouka Patenaude took an early interest to guitar and by high school was studying jazz and playing in nightclubs. He earned a B.S. in Anthropology at UW-Madison and has a wide understanding of the fundamental functions of music in society. While in college, Louka joined Richard Davis' Black Music Ensemble and began playing throughout the Madison music scene. Since then he has toured internationally (Europe, Japan, Guam) with numerous groups including Ben Sidran and Natty Nation, and he helped found the New Breed Quintet which has hosted an open jazz jam since 2000. In 2009 he won the Madison Area Music Award for Best Guitarist.

Louka has been teaching music since 1998. He boasts a studio of highly knowledgeable guitarists who have received scholarships to schools such as Berklee College of Music and who are performing professionally today. However he still enjoys breaking concepts down to the basics for students as young as 6 years old. Full Bio (pdf)

Ian ThornburgGuitar, Electric Bass, UkuleleIan is a multi-instrumentalist who specializes in all things guitar. He has taught privately at Good n Loud Music (until it closed in February, 2011) and North Sherman Methodist church since the spring of 2008 and is proud of the musical tradition in which he was raised, and of his ability to share it. Ian studied music at St. John's University and the University of Wisconsin as well as privately with several prominent local players. He believes in playing music for the fun of it, and fun is at the core of his teaching philosophy. His students learn the styles they enjoy as well as general knowledge about music and its creators. Ian's students have become accomplished players, songwriters, have joined bands and made their own. Ian teaches electric and acoustic guitar, electric bass and ukulele. His specialties include blues, rock and folk styles, music theory and history. Full Bio (pdf)

Steve TruesdellGuitar, Electric BassSteve has been playing guitar, touring and recording for over 25 years. He studied at Lakeshore Conservatory and at UW-Whitewater where he learned marketing skills which helped his alt-metal band Dead Fly Boy land a record deal with Sector II Records. He has toured the U.S. repeatedly in notable acts such as the reggae group Natty Nation and funk group Weapons of Mass Defunktion.

Steve finds teaching to be one of the most rewarding parts of being a musician. He wants students to get the most out of lessons whether they are beginning students with no or few musical skills, already versed in music theory, currently performing musicians, or itching to do something with that guitar that's been sitting around gathering dust in the corner. He is versed in multiple styles and wants students to feel comfortable with themselves and work at a pace that's right for them. Full Bio (pdf)
www.reverbnation.com/womd
www.myspace.com/weaponsofmassdefunktion

Chris Boeger Electric Bass, String Bass, GuitarChris has been playing bass (and guitar) for over 25 years. From garage bands in high school to playing locally and internationally today, Chris loves playing bass (electric and upright) and has explored a wide range of styles from Rock to Jazz to Country. He has performed and recorded with many area groups and is currently playing with The Cash Box Kings, The Hometown Sweethearts, The Old Tin Can String Band among others. Chris also has extensive studio experience as a "hired gun" for albums, movie soundtracks and loop libraries. Lessons are tailored to explore whatever the student is most passionate about learning. Chris encourages efficient and relaxed practice and con offer tips to get the most out of playing. Full Bio (pdf)

Jourdan Hines
Piano, Guitar, SaxophoneJourdan began studying music when he was just seven years old. He received an A.A.S. in Music Production from McNally Smith College of Music and a B.S. in Music Theory and Composition from UW-La Crosse. In addition to teaching privately Jourdan works as a freelance musician, recording engineer and graphic designer. He performs regionally with a variety of groups and as a solo artist.

Teaching since 2002, Jourdan's goal is to empower each student with musical knowledge and the skills needed to be a successful musician. The path taken to achieve this goal is individualized and is based upon the student's goals, whether it be a professional career in music or an enjoyable personal hobby to share with friends and family. In addition to instrument-specific training, Jourdan also teaches music theory, composition and recording technology. He strives to make music a positive and rewarding experience that will last a lifetime. Full Bio (pdf)
www.jourdanhines.com

Rockwell Rice
Guitar, Classical GuitarRockwell Windsor Rice is an active performer and teacher based out of Madison WI. He holds a Masters Degree from UW Madison where he studied under Javier Calderon. He also holds a B.A. in music from UW Whitewater where he studied with George Lindquist. His teaching philosophy was created through the combination of starting out as a self-taught guitar player, and ending up as a trained musician. As a teacher he is eager to open students up to the world of music by teaching them to play and understand the music that they love. Beginning as a self-taught player has given him a unique insight into the roadblocks that beginning students encounter, training as a classical guitarist has given him the education to help student avoid those very same roadblocks on their own journey with music. It is his primary goal that students leave their lessons possessing the kind of musical knowledge that will allow them to explore any avenue of music that they want with confidence, and the technique as a guitarist to explore that avenue fully.

Stephen Burke
Guitar, Electric Bass, Banjo, Mandolin, UkuleleStephen Burke was born and raised in Watertown WI. He came to Madison after graduating High School and quickly immersed himself in the local music scene, most notably with "Madison's House Band" The Gomers. He has toured nationally and internationally and has approximately fifteen years teaching experience, with students of all ages at all levels. Stephen offers instruction in guitar in most styles, focusing on improvisation and composition, and banjo, ukulele, mandolin and bass guitar at beginner to intermediate levels. His primary goal as a teacher is to help his students find the path to allow them to create the music they want to create as quickly and efficiently as possible.

BASS

Ken Fitzsimmons Electric Bass, String BassTeaching since 1996, Ken has helped students successfully audition into Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra (WYSO), WSMA Honors Orchestra, and various university music schools and conservatories. Many have gone on to tour in bands, play in professional orchestras and even to teach lessons. One on one lessons are catered to your needs whether you play professionally or for fun. All ages and experience levels are welcome. You are never too old or too young. In addition to being trained in multiple styles, Ken also teaches music theory, ear training and sight singing.

Since receiving a degree in bass performance from UW-Madison studying under jazz great Richard Davis, Ken has played with the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, Madison Symphony Orchestra, various jazz groups along with countless blues, country, and rock bands. He has performed on nearly 20 albums and has toured the country numerous times with award winning Irish rock band The Kissers.

Lee PayneGuitar, Electric BassBorn with a passion for music, Lee has been playing instruments for as long as he can remember. He earned his BA at UW-Madison in Musical Performance in 2000 with a focus on classical guitar and jazz studies. His studies also included extensive theory training. Lee has been playing guitar since 1992 and has played with original bands and a few cover rock bands. Some venues include The Barrymore Theatre, Memorial Union Terrace, and Summerfest. He has been teaching guitar lessons privately since 1999 and in group settings since 2004. As a mentor, he focuses on individual development of musicians as well as preparing students for group dynamics in the future. Each curriculum is personalized so students can reach their own goals as quickly as possible.
Lee believes that every person should get the opportunity to have a fulfilling relationship with music, whether it is casual or professional.

VOICE

Caitlin CislerVoiceCaitlin received her masters degree in Opera from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, as well as bachelor degrees in both Vocal Performance and Biology from Lawrence University. She is a published researcher in vocal health and the effects of singing on the immune system. An active performer, Caitlin has sung in Madison's major venues: The Overture Center, Union Theater, the Majestic, and the UW-Opera stage. At UW, Caitlin was selected as both a Voice teaching assistant, teaching a studio of private students, as well as the Opera teaching assistant, directing opera scenes for the Opera Workshop class. Caitlin's students have enjoyed great success in audition-only plays and choirs, the State Solo & Ensemble competitions, and in their pursuit of music degrees at the university level. Caitlin teaches voice to all levels, and believes that a strong, healthy understanding of the basics of singing can allow you to achieve your best success, whatever musical style you choose. Full Bio (pdf)

Olivia Ferguson
Voice, PianoOlivia Ferguson has been teaching voice since 2008. She received her Bachelor of Music degree in voice performance from Michigan State University in 2010, and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in voice performance at UW-Madison. Olivia has performed in MSU and UW opera, as a soloist with the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, and as a chorister with the Michigan Opera Theater and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and has sung around the world from Vienna, Austria to Chongqing, China. She has worked as a substitute musical coach for the students of MSU voice professor Molly Fillmore. Olivia believes singing should be a fun expression of individuality. In addition to teaching from a classical perspective, Olivia is comfortable working with students on musical theater, jazz, and popular pieces. In lessons she focuses on the foundations of posture, breathing, space and resonance, as well as teaching attention to musical detail and confident dramatic presentation.

STRINGS

Jennifer Clare PaulsonViolin, ViolaJen Clare Paulson uses her experience in many genres to meet the needs and interests of each student. She mixes her training in the Suzuki Method with experience gained in over 15 years of teaching to customize lesson content for students of all ages and levels. She earned her DMA in viola performance with a minor in jazz studies at UW-Madison and her Masters's degree at Northwestern University while performing with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago. She is currently a member of the Madison Symphony Orchestra and the Green Bay Symphony Orchestra and performs with several improvising ensembles based in Chicago. JCP also has experience playing old-time and bluegrass fiddle as well as working with bands and singer/songwriters in the studio and on stage. A list of her students' accomplishments includes: membership in WYSO ensembles, founding members of the Echelon String Quartet, and acceptance to Berklee College of Music in Boston and the Conservatory of Music at the University of Indiana in Bloomington.

Jon VriesackerViolin, ViolaJon is a member of the Madison Symphony Orchestra where he has worked with Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Gunther Schuller. He studied at the Berklee College of Music with Matt Glaser and received his Bachelor of Music degree from UW-Madison. Jon has soloed with the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra and has been featured with violin legends Johnny Frigo and Johnny Gimble. He has performed on promotional recordings for Lands? End and Miller Brewing and can be heard on albums by Willy Porter, Freedy Johnston and Garbage. In his movie soundtrack debut, Jon played on “Al Otro Lado del Rio” from The Motorcycle Diaries, which won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 2005. In addition to private teaching Jon has been a Solo and Ensemble judge and a clinician at numerous schools and string festivals. He also spent a semester teaching string improvisation at Wichita State University. He teaches classical violin, jazz playing and fiddling.

Mark BridgesCelloMark Bridges has diverse experience as both a performer and teacher of cello. He holds performance degrees from Boston University and the Eastman School of Music where he was an orchestral studies fellow and member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. As a member of the Arneis String Quartet he has been coached by members of the Emerson and Juilliard String Quartets and performed at the Banff Centre and at the Juilliard School. He is currently a member of the Fyra Cello Quartet and is a regular performer at Madison’s “Classical Revolution.” He is also a Doctoral Candidate in Cello Performance at UW-Madison. Mark has been teaching since 2006 and draws from his wealth of experience in practical, academic and ensemble settings. His students have gone on to play principal positions in their school orchestras and to successfully audition for community music programs. Mark is dedicated to providing a well-rounded musical education emphasizing ear training, improvisation, sight-reading and above all the exploration of musical and personal expression. Full Bio (pdf)

WOODWINDS

Pete Ross
Saxophone, Clarinet Pete is a Wisconsin native and has been active as both a saxophone performer and teacher for the past twelve years. He attended the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor where he studied jazz saxophone and improvisation with Donald Walden and classical saxophone technique and repertoire with Donald Sinta. He received a BFA in Jazz Studies on saxophone in 2003. He has toured with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and Los Angeles based singer/songwriter Michael Sullivan and has had the pleasure to perform with Madison area artists such as The Jimmys, the original funky drummer Clyde Stubblefield, the Madison Jazz Orchestra and the Madison Mellophonium Jazz Orchestra, among others. Pete can be heard on recordings with The Jimmys, the Glenn Miller Orchestra, the University of Michigan Jazz Ensemble and guitarist Bobby Messano. Having been a private instructor in saxophone and clarinet since 1998, Pete has had the opportunity to work with students of all ages and skill levels. Pete stresses strong technique and fundamentals, while at the same time focusing on the interests and aptitudes of each individual student - be it jazz improvisation, classical repertoire, chamber music and ensemble playing, or theory and ear training.

Jim GerbigGuitar, Brass, Flute, Woodwinds Jim holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Instrumental Music Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and has worked with all levels of Brass and Woodwind students since 1982. In addition, he has been a private studio guitar and bass guitar teacher since 1977. Equally at home playing Rock, Jazz, and Fusion styles, he especially enjoys helping rock guitarists make the transition to playing in their school jazz ensemble.

He has coached hundreds of band students to Superior and Excellent ratings in Solo/Ensemble performances, from individuals and small ensembles to full jazz band and concert band events. In addition, he has worked with students on all instruments to improve their improvisational skills and working knowledge of Music Theory.

With over 30 years of studio teaching experience, Jim prides himself on finding the right approach to guide any student in realizing their potential, on whatever their instrument of choice. Full Bio (pdf)

BRASS

DRUMS & PERCUSSION

Kai AndersenDrum Set, Snare Drum Kai has been playing and performing on the drums for more than 20 years. His music career started in the second grade playing piano. Drums and guitar soon followed, and he has been playing ever since. Kai has played in many original rock bands over the last twenty years, recording and touring regionally, and has opened for such acts as Linkin Park, Los Lobos, and Seether. He has a B.A. in Journalism from UW-Milwaukee and is a DJ on 94.1FM WJJO. He has been teaching drums professionally since 2001. From beginner to advanced, Kai believes that music lessons should be as entertaining as they are challenging. He is proficient in styles ranging from funk to metal and blues to reggae, and lessons have to always be fun.

Joey B Banks Joey B. BanksDrum Set, Drum Corp Snare, Percussion Joey B. Banks has over 30 years of drumming experience. A snare drummer in the Madison Scouts, a graduate of the Musicians Institute of Technology and substitute drummer for the "funky drummer", Clyde Stubblefield, Joey B offers a unique educational experience for all ages and levels. Beginner drum students experience a fun, rudimental approach to learning how to drum and later apply rudimental skills to the drum kit. Advance students focus on performance, improvisational concepts, hand and foot speed, and technique. Joey B. specializes in performance, improvisational concepts for the advanced drummer, Drum Corp snare drumming, and teaches all styles of music. Full Bio (pdf)

Nathan RussellDrum Set, Snare Drum, Hand Percussion, Mallet Instruments Nathan Russell picked up his first instrument at age 10, played his first professional show by 14 and began teaching privately during college. While pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree from UW Oshkosh, Nathan performed in a variety of groups including The Racine Kilties Drum & Bugle Corps, The Marimba Festival Orchestra (The World's Largest Marimba Ensemble), The Oshkosh and Green Bay Symphony Orchestras and the UWO Percussion & Marimba Ensemble. After graduating in 2000 Nathan worked in Nashville shortly before touring nationally with the rock group The Sound and the Fury. Nathan has taught students of all ages on a variety of instruments and styles including those who've successfully auditioned for MYSO & WYSO. He is the acting Band Director for St. Mary Elementary School in Portage, WI and also teaches internationally at an annual drum retreat and children's percussion camps in Roatan, Honduras. Full Bio (pdf)

Eric ShackelfordDrum Set, Snare Drum, Hand Percussion Eric Shackelford is a versatile drummer and experienced educator who has been both playing and teaching for over ten years. Eric has won many competitions and awards throughout his playing career. In 2000 Eric graduated with a B.A in Music from Coe College and has been teaching and playing in bands ever since. He currently records and tours with the award winning band "Aaron Williams & The Hoodoo". This year the Hoodoo won several Madison Area Music Association (MAMA) awards, including Artist of the Year. Eric was also was awarded the 2010 MAMA award for drummer of the year. Instruments taught include drumset, timbales, conga, and keyboard percussion. All students are taught as individuals, keeping in mind each player's own style and tastes. Lessons are taught with well-established techniques and rhythms from a variety of books and educational materials, but also allowing students to creatively explore what they have learned. Full Bio (pdf)

Christopher VincentDrum Set, Orchestral Percussion, Hand Drums, Marching Percussion A UW-Madison School of Music graduate, Chris has 18 years experience as a drummer, percussionist, and teacher. He shares his passion for drumming with students of all ages and skill levels. Chris teaches technique and concepts for drum set, orchestral percussion, hand drums, and marching percussion.

With the drum set as his primary instrument, Chris teaches genres ranging from rock, jazz, progressive, blues, funk, and Latin. He offers lessons in hand percussion and is also a drum circle facilitator for VSA Wisconsin. In addition, Chris offers instruction on orchestral and marching percussion, developed in his UW studies and previous experience as Associate Percussion Director at Kettle Moraine high school. In addition to drum and percussion lessons at The Foundry he also coaches Rock Workshops. Chris currently performs with The Secret Society of Starfish, which has afforded him great experiences such as opening for Yes and King's X.

Lessons LINKS

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Education

Lessons

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