Private instruction is available for beginning through advanced students of trombone, trumpet, baritone, euphonium and tuba. Mr Sheley holds a Bachelor's of Music in musical performance with jazz emphasis from Millikin University in Decatur IL. and a Master's of Music in musical performance from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, IL. He has over 25 years of experience playing and teaching, including 6 years performing with the world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra. Contact Cary to arrange a lesson time.
What Is Expected From The Student
Tuition
The monthly fee is for 4 lessons per month. If there are 5 lessons possible in a month, the 5th will be used for makeups. I will need a minimum of 24 hours notice to reschedule a lesson. No lesson will be rescheduled, without the 24 hr notice. If there is a family emergency or illness please let me know asap. Occasionally I am required to perform during the scheduled lesson time. If I am unable to make a lesson, you will be notified in advance and a makeup will be scheduled at a mutually agreeable time.
The monthly fee is for 4 lessons per month. If there are 5 lessons possible in a month, the 5th will be used for makeups. I will need a minimum of 24 hours notice to reschedule a lesson. No lesson will be rescheduled, without the 24 hr notice. If there is a family emergency or illness please let me know asap. Occasionally I am required to perform during the scheduled lesson time. If I am unable to make a lesson, you will be notified in advance and a makeup will be scheduled at a mutually agreeable time.
•
30 min. lesson - $20.00 per session or $60.00 per
month (4 sessions)
•
60 min. lesson - $30.00 per session or $100.00 per
month (4 sessions)
Payment for the month is expected up front, unless
a payment plan is worked out ahead of time. I
understand budgetary difficulties and will work
with you, if needed.
Practice
The
student is expected to bring his or her instrument
home from school every night, including the
weekends, for practice. If they are to gain benefit
from these lessons, a practice routine must be
setup and utilized. For beginners, 20-30 mins per
day, every day, is expected. For intermediate level
students , 30-45 mins per day and for advanced
students, 45 mins-1 hr every day. The student
cannot expect to progress unless he or she is
practicing regularly. Band rehearsal does not count
towards this practice time. For the college bound,
music major a minimum of 90 mins is required.
Serious students will find time for extra practice.
Suggested practice time is 2 hrs.+
Listening & Ear
Training
Listening to music is essential for the student’s development. I will provide some musical examples at no charge to them, but they will be encouraged to purchase other audio Cd’s and recordings on their own to further their development. There is a considerable amount of recorded materials available for today’s student and they should be utilized. I will provide a discography of the suggested musical examples. In addition, I will notify the student of any local performances of accomplished musicians and encourage attendance.
Required Materials
The
student will be given some materials at no charge,
but will be expected to purchase others, including
methods book, solo materials, and instrument
accessories. I will guide you in these purchases.
Many of the materials are available here in Rockford
at Guzzardo’s Music. Others can be purchased online.
I will provide assistance where needed. The student
will be provided with a introductory “booklet” with a
warmup routine and some musical examples appropriate
for their playing level.
Below is a list of required materials for the lessons. The students may already have some of these materials :
1) Folder (8.5 x 11) or (9x12) (w/open pockets)
2) Slide Lubricant (trombone) - the following brands are acceptable: superslick, trombotine or slide-o-mix (slide oil may be simpler to apply, but in my opinion it is inferior in performance) and a small “misting” water sprayer to carry in their case. The bottle should "mist" water not spray a stream. They are available anywhere they sell the slide lubricant. Any “misting” type bottle will work, but it needs to be carried in the trombone case, so it must be small. I’ve seen small bottles at Wal-Mart and K-Mart for less than a dollar. Valve Oil is needed for trumpet, euphonium and tuba students)
3) Metronome - small and portable is the best, but a larger one, if already owned, is exceptable. The student is expected to use it while practicing. They are available for about $15-20.
4) Horn Maintenance Kit, these may be bought pre-assembled or you can make your own. They must include a slide cleaning rod (snake for trumpet), tuning slide grease, and a small mouthpiece brush. As stated above I can assist in obtaining these materials.
5) Methods Books, After the first lesson, I will suggest the book or books we will work from. The materials I use depend upon the students current level. For a beginner (trombone), they will need Rubank’s “Elementary Method for Trombone”. Also a wirebound Manuscript book of staff paper. I will at times write down an example in their book to better illustrate an idea or technique.
Below is a list of required materials for the lessons. The students may already have some of these materials :
1) Folder (8.5 x 11) or (9x12) (w/open pockets)
2) Slide Lubricant (trombone) - the following brands are acceptable: superslick, trombotine or slide-o-mix (slide oil may be simpler to apply, but in my opinion it is inferior in performance) and a small “misting” water sprayer to carry in their case. The bottle should "mist" water not spray a stream. They are available anywhere they sell the slide lubricant. Any “misting” type bottle will work, but it needs to be carried in the trombone case, so it must be small. I’ve seen small bottles at Wal-Mart and K-Mart for less than a dollar. Valve Oil is needed for trumpet, euphonium and tuba students)
3) Metronome - small and portable is the best, but a larger one, if already owned, is exceptable. The student is expected to use it while practicing. They are available for about $15-20.
4) Horn Maintenance Kit, these may be bought pre-assembled or you can make your own. They must include a slide cleaning rod (snake for trumpet), tuning slide grease, and a small mouthpiece brush. As stated above I can assist in obtaining these materials.
5) Methods Books, After the first lesson, I will suggest the book or books we will work from. The materials I use depend upon the students current level. For a beginner (trombone), they will need Rubank’s “Elementary Method for Trombone”. Also a wirebound Manuscript book of staff paper. I will at times write down an example in their book to better illustrate an idea or technique.
Instrument Care & Maintenance
The
student’s instrument is to be in good working order.
He or she cannot be expected to perform well with an
instrument that is not in good condition. The
instrument must be taken care of by the student and
is expected to be cleaned and maintained regularly.
Instruction will be provided.
Lesson Plan (Trombone)
The Beginner (Years
1 & 2)
Practice: 20-30 mins/day - 3 hrs per/week)
The students will learn to form the proper embouchure, be shown how to articulate the note and be taught the importance of supporting the sound with the air stream. They will learn the usefulness of buzzing on the mouthpiece and also just on the lips, to help create a more “centered” sound and a good tone. They will be taught how to hold the instrument properly and the correct technique to manipulate the slide.
They will be expected to learn the note names, w/correct positions, from low “E” to “Bb” above middle “C”. They will learn the difference between articulating the note in a legato, staccato or marcato style and how to recognize when they apply. They will learn the values of the different notes (ie. whole, half, quarter, etc.) and how to perform them in the correct rhythm. They will gain a general understanding of Melody, Harmony and Rhythm and how they function in music. They will be responsible for learning all 12 major scales (1 octave/memorized) by the end of the 2nd year and a 2 octave chromatic scale. By the end of the 1st year, they should be able to perform a short solo (1 page) w/o accompaniment.
Methods Books
Rubank - Elementary Method for Trombone
Additional Materials
Brass Buzz - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Just Add Trombone - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Double Dip (Duets) - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
-----------------------------------------------------
The Intermediate Student (Years 3 & 4)
Practice: 30-45 mins/day - 4 hrs per/week)
The student will continue his studies and be introduced to syncopation, the 6/8 rhythm, pedal tones, fake tones, the overtone series and how it applies to the trombone. They will learn the difference between a triplet feel and the “dotted eight/sixteenth” rhythm. They will learn how to use alternate positions, the relationship of scales to chords and how to develop good sight reading skills. They will be introduced to a “daily routine” including using long tones to gain stronger endurance and help produce a straight tone, Lips slurs to gain flexibility and tonguing exercises to improve articulation. They will be expected to play all 12 major scales (2 octaves/memorized) and all 12 minor scales (1 octave) in all 3 forms, natural, harmonic, and melodic. The student should be able to perform a Solo of Medium Difficulty by the end of the 4th year, with or without accompaniment.
Methods Books
Rubank - Intermediate Method for Trombone
Rubank - Selected Duets Book 1 - by Voxman
Rochut - Melodious Etudes Vol. 1
Arban Prescot Method (1st & 2nd Year)
Additional Materials
15-minute Warmup Routine - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Total Trombone - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Triple Threat (Trios) - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Solos
Marceau Symphonique or similar piece
-----------------------------------------------------
The Advanced Student (Years 5 & 6)
Practice: 45 mins-1 hr per/day - 5-6 hours per/week)
As their studies continue they will further their abilities with advanced exercises in articulation (including learning to double and triple tongue), increased fexibility with advanced lips slurs (including lip trills and turns), and strengthen the breath support to create a strong foundation for the sound. Work to increase their range to: Low pedal “E” to High “F”, an octave and a 4th above middle “C”. The contemporary professional trombonist is expected to be able to play to that High “F” . Although, they seldom would expected to play the low pedal “E”, as the bass trombonist usually covers that low range, if the student works in both directions at the same time, he will realize the greatest success. The student will learn to read music written in Tenor & Alto Clef. More time will be spent developing solo work in preparation for continuing their studies at the undergraduate level. They will gain a better understanding of how to express themselves through the music and how to create music, not just notes on the page.
Methods Books
Rubank - Advanced Method for Trombone Vols. 1 & 2
Rochut - Melodious Etudes Vols. 2 & 3.
Rubank - Selected Duets Book 2 - By Voxman
Additional Materials
Blazhevich Clef Studies
Blazhevich Concert Duets
20-minute Warmup Routine - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Solos
Rimsky Korsakov Concerto for Trombone or similar piece
-----------------------------------------------------
The College-Bound Student
Practice: 2 hrs+ per/day - 14+ hours per/week)
At this point the student has decided to pursue a career in music. Additional practice time is a must. The student will be working on audition materials for entrance into the music school of their choice. Time will be spent perfecting the entrance materials in hopes of securing a scholarship. By this time the student should be spending much of their "free time" practicing and listening to music. More time will also be spent on the "Theory of Music", how chords function and how melodies are constructed.
*Jazz Studies
For students interested in jazz, I can provide guidance in jazz performance and improvisation. We will study the “jazz” feel, articulations, inflections and styles (including jazz, swing, latin, funk and rock). They will learn to improvise a melody from scratch. We will study melody, harmony and rhythm and learn how to utilize these different aspects in order to create a music. They will study scales and modes in much greater detail. They will learn common chord progressions and what notes and patterns work the best over those “changes”. Time will be spent on “ear training” to be able to identify the different intervals, patterns and chord qualities. The student will learn how to transcribe solos from established contemporary and historic jazz musicians and learn how they interpreted the music. I have a strong background performing with jazz and commercial musical groups and enjoy sharing that experience with my students.
Methods Books
The Real Easy Book - Sher Music (easy tunes for beginning students of jazz)
The Real Book - Hal leonard "Fake Book" (a collection of songs w/melody & chords to use for improvisation)
Jamey Aebersold Play-along series
Dance Band Reading and Interpretation - Alan Raph
Maximum Mastery - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Patterns for Jazz - Jerry Coker
Trombonisms - Bill Watrous
Doodle Studies and Etudes - Bob McChesney
Plunger Techinques - Al Grey & Mike Grey
How To Improvise (An Approach to Practicing Improvisation)- Hal Crook
Practice: 20-30 mins/day - 3 hrs per/week)
The students will learn to form the proper embouchure, be shown how to articulate the note and be taught the importance of supporting the sound with the air stream. They will learn the usefulness of buzzing on the mouthpiece and also just on the lips, to help create a more “centered” sound and a good tone. They will be taught how to hold the instrument properly and the correct technique to manipulate the slide.
They will be expected to learn the note names, w/correct positions, from low “E” to “Bb” above middle “C”. They will learn the difference between articulating the note in a legato, staccato or marcato style and how to recognize when they apply. They will learn the values of the different notes (ie. whole, half, quarter, etc.) and how to perform them in the correct rhythm. They will gain a general understanding of Melody, Harmony and Rhythm and how they function in music. They will be responsible for learning all 12 major scales (1 octave/memorized) by the end of the 2nd year and a 2 octave chromatic scale. By the end of the 1st year, they should be able to perform a short solo (1 page) w/o accompaniment.
Methods Books
Rubank - Elementary Method for Trombone
Additional Materials
Brass Buzz - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Just Add Trombone - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Double Dip (Duets) - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
-----------------------------------------------------
The Intermediate Student (Years 3 & 4)
Practice: 30-45 mins/day - 4 hrs per/week)
The student will continue his studies and be introduced to syncopation, the 6/8 rhythm, pedal tones, fake tones, the overtone series and how it applies to the trombone. They will learn the difference between a triplet feel and the “dotted eight/sixteenth” rhythm. They will learn how to use alternate positions, the relationship of scales to chords and how to develop good sight reading skills. They will be introduced to a “daily routine” including using long tones to gain stronger endurance and help produce a straight tone, Lips slurs to gain flexibility and tonguing exercises to improve articulation. They will be expected to play all 12 major scales (2 octaves/memorized) and all 12 minor scales (1 octave) in all 3 forms, natural, harmonic, and melodic. The student should be able to perform a Solo of Medium Difficulty by the end of the 4th year, with or without accompaniment.
Methods Books
Rubank - Intermediate Method for Trombone
Rubank - Selected Duets Book 1 - by Voxman
Rochut - Melodious Etudes Vol. 1
Arban Prescot Method (1st & 2nd Year)
Additional Materials
15-minute Warmup Routine - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Total Trombone - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Triple Threat (Trios) - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Solos
Marceau Symphonique or similar piece
-----------------------------------------------------
The Advanced Student (Years 5 & 6)
Practice: 45 mins-1 hr per/day - 5-6 hours per/week)
As their studies continue they will further their abilities with advanced exercises in articulation (including learning to double and triple tongue), increased fexibility with advanced lips slurs (including lip trills and turns), and strengthen the breath support to create a strong foundation for the sound. Work to increase their range to: Low pedal “E” to High “F”, an octave and a 4th above middle “C”. The contemporary professional trombonist is expected to be able to play to that High “F” . Although, they seldom would expected to play the low pedal “E”, as the bass trombonist usually covers that low range, if the student works in both directions at the same time, he will realize the greatest success. The student will learn to read music written in Tenor & Alto Clef. More time will be spent developing solo work in preparation for continuing their studies at the undergraduate level. They will gain a better understanding of how to express themselves through the music and how to create music, not just notes on the page.
Methods Books
Rubank - Advanced Method for Trombone Vols. 1 & 2
Rochut - Melodious Etudes Vols. 2 & 3.
Rubank - Selected Duets Book 2 - By Voxman
Additional Materials
Blazhevich Clef Studies
Blazhevich Concert Duets
20-minute Warmup Routine - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Solos
Rimsky Korsakov Concerto for Trombone or similar piece
-----------------------------------------------------
The College-Bound Student
Practice: 2 hrs+ per/day - 14+ hours per/week)
At this point the student has decided to pursue a career in music. Additional practice time is a must. The student will be working on audition materials for entrance into the music school of their choice. Time will be spent perfecting the entrance materials in hopes of securing a scholarship. By this time the student should be spending much of their "free time" practicing and listening to music. More time will also be spent on the "Theory of Music", how chords function and how melodies are constructed.
*Jazz Studies
For students interested in jazz, I can provide guidance in jazz performance and improvisation. We will study the “jazz” feel, articulations, inflections and styles (including jazz, swing, latin, funk and rock). They will learn to improvise a melody from scratch. We will study melody, harmony and rhythm and learn how to utilize these different aspects in order to create a music. They will study scales and modes in much greater detail. They will learn common chord progressions and what notes and patterns work the best over those “changes”. Time will be spent on “ear training” to be able to identify the different intervals, patterns and chord qualities. The student will learn how to transcribe solos from established contemporary and historic jazz musicians and learn how they interpreted the music. I have a strong background performing with jazz and commercial musical groups and enjoy sharing that experience with my students.
Methods Books
The Real Easy Book - Sher Music (easy tunes for beginning students of jazz)
The Real Book - Hal leonard "Fake Book" (a collection of songs w/melody & chords to use for improvisation)
Jamey Aebersold Play-along series
Dance Band Reading and Interpretation - Alan Raph
Maximum Mastery - Michael Davis (Hip Bone Music)
Patterns for Jazz - Jerry Coker
Trombonisms - Bill Watrous
Doodle Studies and Etudes - Bob McChesney
Plunger Techinques - Al Grey & Mike Grey
How To Improvise (An Approach to Practicing Improvisation)- Hal Crook
Summary of Qualifications
EDUCATION
Southern Illinois University,
Edwardsville, Illinois
T.A. in Jazz, 1983-1985
Master of Music,
Jazz Performance, 1990
Millikin University,
Decatur, Illinois
Bachelor of Music,
Jazz Performance, 1982
East Senior High School,
Rockford, Illinois
Graduated, 1978
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Mr Sheley has performed with Carl Fontana, Bobby Shew, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Louis Bellson, Andy Williams, Donald O'Connor, Mickey Rooney and Mel Torme.
2001 - Trombonist,
The Grand Hotel Orchestra,
Grand Hotel,
Macinac Island, Michigan
2000 - Trombonist/Arranger,
The Tom Haberman Orchestra,
Nevele Grande Hotel, Ellenville, New York
1998-present - Brass Instructor,
Private Studio, Rockford, Illinois
1997-present
Sheley Musical Services
Trombonist/Arranger/Copyist,
(Illinois/Wisconsin/Iowa)
-includes work with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Harry James Orchestra, Ken Killian Sax-tet Plus, Gardenia Big Band, Dick Jurgens Orchestra, American Vintage Orchestra, Grupo Candela and Little Big Band.
1996-1997 Trombonist/Arranger,
The Tom Haberman Orchestra,
Royal Viking Sun Cruise Ship
1990-1996 Trombonist/Vocalist/Copyist,
Glenn Miller Orchestra, Maitland, Florida
-played lead trombone, performed in the “Moonlight Serenaders” vocal group, was band copyist, recorded 3 albums; “Moonlight Serenade” 1990, “Here We Go Again” 1992 and w/Barry Manilow "Singin’ with the Big Bands" 1994, recorded 2 videos; “Glenn Miller’s Greatest Hits” w/Kathy Lee Gifford Vols. 1 & 2, 1996.
1988-1990 Low Brass Instructor,
Principia College, Elsa, Illinois
1988-1990 Composer/Arranger,
Ger-Bil Music, St Louis, MO.
1988 Trombone Clinician,
S.I.U.E. Jazz Department, Edwardsville, Illinois
1987-1990 Low Brass Instructor,
Lewis and Clark Community College, Godfrey, Illinois
1986-1987 Director of Jazz Ensemble, East Central College, Union, Missouri
-includes stipend for composition
1983-1990 Freelance Trombonist/Arranger/Copyist,
St Louis, Missouri
-includes work with Russ David, Bob Kuban, Lee Hyde, Buddy Moreno, Fox Theatre Orchestra and St Louis Jazz Orchestra.
Southern Illinois University,
Edwardsville, Illinois
T.A. in Jazz, 1983-1985
Master of Music,
Jazz Performance, 1990
Millikin University,
Decatur, Illinois
Bachelor of Music,
Jazz Performance, 1982
East Senior High School,
Rockford, Illinois
Graduated, 1978
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Mr Sheley has performed with Carl Fontana, Bobby Shew, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Louis Bellson, Andy Williams, Donald O'Connor, Mickey Rooney and Mel Torme.
2001 - Trombonist,
The Grand Hotel Orchestra,
Grand Hotel,
Macinac Island, Michigan
2000 - Trombonist/Arranger,
The Tom Haberman Orchestra,
Nevele Grande Hotel, Ellenville, New York
1998-present - Brass Instructor,
Private Studio, Rockford, Illinois
1997-present
Sheley Musical Services
Trombonist/Arranger/Copyist,
(Illinois/Wisconsin/Iowa)
-includes work with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, Harry James Orchestra, Ken Killian Sax-tet Plus, Gardenia Big Band, Dick Jurgens Orchestra, American Vintage Orchestra, Grupo Candela and Little Big Band.
1996-1997 Trombonist/Arranger,
The Tom Haberman Orchestra,
Royal Viking Sun Cruise Ship
1990-1996 Trombonist/Vocalist/Copyist,
Glenn Miller Orchestra, Maitland, Florida
-played lead trombone, performed in the “Moonlight Serenaders” vocal group, was band copyist, recorded 3 albums; “Moonlight Serenade” 1990, “Here We Go Again” 1992 and w/Barry Manilow "Singin’ with the Big Bands" 1994, recorded 2 videos; “Glenn Miller’s Greatest Hits” w/Kathy Lee Gifford Vols. 1 & 2, 1996.
1988-1990 Low Brass Instructor,
Principia College, Elsa, Illinois
1988-1990 Composer/Arranger,
Ger-Bil Music, St Louis, MO.
1988 Trombone Clinician,
S.I.U.E. Jazz Department, Edwardsville, Illinois
1987-1990 Low Brass Instructor,
Lewis and Clark Community College, Godfrey, Illinois
1986-1987 Director of Jazz Ensemble, East Central College, Union, Missouri
-includes stipend for composition
1983-1990 Freelance Trombonist/Arranger/Copyist,
St Louis, Missouri
-includes work with Russ David, Bob Kuban, Lee Hyde, Buddy Moreno, Fox Theatre Orchestra and St Louis Jazz Orchestra.
Frequently Asked Questions...
Question:
How much are lessons going to cost?
Answer: The lessons are billed by the month and payment is required at the beginning of the month. The charge is $60.00/month for 4 (1/2 hr sessions) or $100.00/month for 4 (1 hr sessions). For my adult students, I will accept payment by the session.
Question: What time and on what days do you teach?
Answer: I am currently teaching on Mon., Tue. & Wed. evenings starting at 5:00 PM. Please contact me and we can work out a time for you. I am currently accepting new students.
Question: Do you take beginners and/or what level students do you accept?
Answer: I accept students of all ages and levels. The youngest student I have taught was in 3rd grade and my oldest student was well into his 60's. I teach raw beginners on up to college level students.
Question: What is your background? What are your qualifications?
Answer: I hold a B.M in Musical Performance from Millikin University in Decatur, IL and a M.M. in Musical Performance from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, IL. I have 3 years experience at the grade school level (4-8 grade band) and also 3 years of experience teaching jazz band at the university level. I have spent over 25 years playing professionally, travelling literally around the world. I have performed in all 50 States, Central & South America, Europe, Scandinavia, Canada, Africa, India, Southeast Asia, Russia, China & Japan. I have taught privately periodically over the last 25 years, when I wasn't travelling. I have performed with a Barry Manilow, Mel Torme, Louie Bellson, Clark Terry, Bobby Shew, Carl Fontana, Andy Williams, Donald O'Conner, Mickey Rooney, the Glenn Miller, Jimmy Dorsey, Harry James and Dick Juergens Orchestras. Locally I lead the Little Big Band from Rockford and I am a member of Grupo Candela (Latin Band) from Madison.
Question: What books or materials is the student required to purchase?
Answer: A complete list is found in the "Lesson Plan". Not all of these materials will be needed at the beginning. I will let you know what books need to be purchased. Look under the heading "Required Materials" to see what other items will be needed.
Question: How much does the student have to practice?
Answer: It depends upon their level. 20-30 minutes/day is expected from beginners. Generally as they progress more time spent practicing will be expected. The important point is that they practice something every day. That repetition is vital to their progress. The more they practice, the better player they become and then the more they want to practice. It feeds off of itself.
Question: Where do you teach?
Answer: I teach in my home. The studio is located at 1922 Rural St., Rockford, IL. Contact me for directions (815) 398-2848.
Question: When can I start?
Answer: We can discuss when you contact me, but generally right away. You don't have to start at the beginning of the month. I will prorate the 1st month.
Question: What information do you need from me?
Answer: I will of course need the student's name, age and year in school. I will also need the parents names, phone numbers and home address for my records. I will need to know if the student has taken lessons before and for how long. Before any books are purchased though, I will need to hear the student play so I can assess their level (done at 1st lesson).
Question: Do you teach all Brass Instruments?
Answer: I primarily teach trombone, but frequently have trumpet, euphonium (baritone) and tuba students as well. For these other brass students I will teach them until the point when they need to take from a Trumpet Teacher/Performer. There are basic brass fundamentals that are shared and can be taught by any good teacher, but after a certain point there are insights that only such a teacher can provide to the student. That can take anywhere from a couple of years to as many as 4 or 5. It depends upon how fast the student is progressing. I also teach Jazz Improvisation, Theory and Commercial Music Concepts in the private setting to students of any instrument. The student must have a basic working knowledge of their instrument. I will be teaching theory & improvisation not how to physically play the sax or bass, etc.
Answer: The lessons are billed by the month and payment is required at the beginning of the month. The charge is $60.00/month for 4 (1/2 hr sessions) or $100.00/month for 4 (1 hr sessions). For my adult students, I will accept payment by the session.
Question: What time and on what days do you teach?
Answer: I am currently teaching on Mon., Tue. & Wed. evenings starting at 5:00 PM. Please contact me and we can work out a time for you. I am currently accepting new students.
Question: Do you take beginners and/or what level students do you accept?
Answer: I accept students of all ages and levels. The youngest student I have taught was in 3rd grade and my oldest student was well into his 60's. I teach raw beginners on up to college level students.
Question: What is your background? What are your qualifications?
Answer: I hold a B.M in Musical Performance from Millikin University in Decatur, IL and a M.M. in Musical Performance from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, IL. I have 3 years experience at the grade school level (4-8 grade band) and also 3 years of experience teaching jazz band at the university level. I have spent over 25 years playing professionally, travelling literally around the world. I have performed in all 50 States, Central & South America, Europe, Scandinavia, Canada, Africa, India, Southeast Asia, Russia, China & Japan. I have taught privately periodically over the last 25 years, when I wasn't travelling. I have performed with a Barry Manilow, Mel Torme, Louie Bellson, Clark Terry, Bobby Shew, Carl Fontana, Andy Williams, Donald O'Conner, Mickey Rooney, the Glenn Miller, Jimmy Dorsey, Harry James and Dick Juergens Orchestras. Locally I lead the Little Big Band from Rockford and I am a member of Grupo Candela (Latin Band) from Madison.
Question: What books or materials is the student required to purchase?
Answer: A complete list is found in the "Lesson Plan". Not all of these materials will be needed at the beginning. I will let you know what books need to be purchased. Look under the heading "Required Materials" to see what other items will be needed.
Question: How much does the student have to practice?
Answer: It depends upon their level. 20-30 minutes/day is expected from beginners. Generally as they progress more time spent practicing will be expected. The important point is that they practice something every day. That repetition is vital to their progress. The more they practice, the better player they become and then the more they want to practice. It feeds off of itself.
Question: Where do you teach?
Answer: I teach in my home. The studio is located at 1922 Rural St., Rockford, IL. Contact me for directions (815) 398-2848.
Question: When can I start?
Answer: We can discuss when you contact me, but generally right away. You don't have to start at the beginning of the month. I will prorate the 1st month.
Question: What information do you need from me?
Answer: I will of course need the student's name, age and year in school. I will also need the parents names, phone numbers and home address for my records. I will need to know if the student has taken lessons before and for how long. Before any books are purchased though, I will need to hear the student play so I can assess their level (done at 1st lesson).
Question: Do you teach all Brass Instruments?
Answer: I primarily teach trombone, but frequently have trumpet, euphonium (baritone) and tuba students as well. For these other brass students I will teach them until the point when they need to take from a Trumpet Teacher/Performer. There are basic brass fundamentals that are shared and can be taught by any good teacher, but after a certain point there are insights that only such a teacher can provide to the student. That can take anywhere from a couple of years to as many as 4 or 5. It depends upon how fast the student is progressing. I also teach Jazz Improvisation, Theory and Commercial Music Concepts in the private setting to students of any instrument. The student must have a basic working knowledge of their instrument. I will be teaching theory & improvisation not how to physically play the sax or bass, etc.
web: www.sheley.net - email: musicalservices@sheley.net - phone: (815)398-2848
