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Learn More About Shirley's Experience:

music history I graduated cum laude in Music from Augusta State University. I received A's in all my music history and music appreciation subjects. Some of the textbooks I used and still refer to are: The Development of Western Music, Norton Anthology of Western Music (Vols. 1 and 2), and Worlds of Music (An Introductions to the Music of the World's Peoples). A few of these books include accompaniment CDs. I enjoy and keep current with all types of music from around the world. Keeping current is mandatory since, as a piano and voice teacher I need to be able to explain the genre of musical pieces and other characteristics to my students. In addition, I love historical eras along with their music, i.e., Baroque, Renaissance, Classical, etc. I also appreciate music from different cultures, i.e., Indian, African, Native American, Japanese, Indonesian, etc. I am comfortable tutoring all levels of historical music (elementary to college). I would love to help you better understand what your instructor is trying to impart. piano In order for me to receive a 4-year college degree in music, I had to pass several piano proficiency tests. Prior to that I always enjoyed the piano and was interested in learning to play skillfully. Currently I teach beginning piano (and voice) to five (5) children and adults at IDrum2U music academy. I have been teaching there for more than one year. My students have successfully performed at recitals, and some are continuing students. Each student has a different set of books to learn from, thus each student requires a unique teaching approach. Each student learns theory along with techniques and songs. Learning to sing a song while playing is another feature I explore with my students. I employ both sight reading and memorization techniques, depending on the age and capabilities of the student. I will feel very comfortable tutoring beginning and intermediate levels of piano methods, techniques and theory. I am accustomed to both acoustic and electronic piano systems. I would very much appreciate the opportunity to help you get over any stumbling block you may have with your piano lessons. religion While obtaining a two-year degree in Theology and a master's level certificate in church leadership, I had the opportunity to take several classes in religion. In addition to Christianity, I have the basic fundamentals of other world religions, including but not limited to Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, and Buddhism. Thus equipped, I believe I would be able to help you make logical decisions while comparing and analyzing the pros and cons of the different religions of our world (from ancient to present). I feel that together I can assist you to understand the reasons sustaining any religion (symbolism, cultural, cross-cultural, geographical, historical, enlightenment, etc.) I would feel comfortable tutoring any level of world religions study. There should not be any degree of complication that I cannot help you think through. Check me out and see! voice (music) While I was obtaining my 4-year degree in music with voice as my instrument, I received formal voice lessons during that period (classical style). Prior to that I took formal voice lessons for several years and attended numerous vocal workshops. Since I am a music major, I have become accustomed to different styles of vocal music sung in the past and present. I have sung with various types of vocal groups (such as, gospel, classical, chamber, contemporary). Over the past ten years, I also have performed as a soloist frequently. For three years, I have been a small group worship leader at my church for two small groups that meet weekly wherein I sing accompanied by guitar or CDs. I currently have two voice students I coach at IDrum2U music academy. Each student has an unique reason for taking voice. I adapt their lessons and vocal exercises to their personality and style. I would feel comfortable tutoring any beginning or intermediate level of voice. If you are currently taking lessons and are uncertain about anything your instructor is attempting to impart, let me help you understand. Even if you feel you cannot sing but you want to sing on an unprofessional or professional level for any reason, I can assist. Let me help you! Anyone can sing!!