Instruments and Curriculum

Music Lessons Express teaches lessons to all ages K to above in a wide variety of instruments in both group and private lesson format. In all lessons, we emphasize music theory as well as instrument proficiency and technique. Listed below is the most used curricula, however, we are open to other literature used or suggested, and to train students by ear.

Piano

Piano students will learn to play written music using the Piano Adventures method. For beginners, foundational concepts such as finger numbers, rhythm and note names must be learned before a student learns to play written music. Supplemental books may be purchased for recitals and for students who show excellent progress in lessons and are practicing on a regular basis. These book categories include classics, pop, rock, jazz, children's songs, favorites, hymns and Christmas.

Guitar

Guitar students will learn to play melodic and rhythmic guitar by written music and chord charts with the FJH Young Beginner Guitar Method, The Chartbuster, or the MLE group guitar ensemble method. Lesson book repertoire includes a selection of rock, pop, country, folk and children's songs. Classical guitar and bass guitar instruction is available; please call our

Strings

Students in group and private string lessons will learn to play by written music using the Essential Elements 2000 for Strings method. For beginners, the fundamental elements such as posture and setup, note-reading, and rhythm-reading must be learned before a student learns to play written music.

Dragon Drumming

Dragon Drumming teaches young drummers basic hand techniques and exciting rhythms from a variety of cultural traditions in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Performances take place in December and May at Music Lessons Express recitals.

Glee and Private Voice

Glee, a vocal ensemble for grades K-5, adapts musical and popular theater repertories for changing voices and develops essential musical skills while incorporating chorus line choreography and loads of fun. Performances take place in December and May at Music Lessons Express recitals.

Brass Instruments

A variety of brass instrument lessons are available such as trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium,  and tuba. Students will learn to play written music and proper techniques using the Essential Elements 2000 method. All students receive a lesson book as part of the registration fee. For beginners, foundational concepts such as correct posture and position, correct embouchure (lip placement) and proper breathing and tone techniques must be learned before a student learns to play from written music. Supplemental and performance music may be provided to the student and is available to purchase for an additional fee. For more information, contact the MLE office.

Woodwinds

Lessons are available in flute, clarinet, saxophone and bassoon. Students will learn to play written music and proper techniques using the Essential Elements 2000 method. All students receive a lesson book as part of the registration fee. For beginners, foundational concepts such as correct posture and position, correct embouchure (lip placement) and proper breathing and tone techniques must be learned before a student learns to play from written music.

Musikgarten

The two classes offered are Family Music for Toddlers and Family Music for Babies & Toddlers. For both classes, there is singing, chanting, moving, dancing, listening, and playing simple instruments – while developing a strong musical bond with your child. Through activities that bridge the natural connection between music and movement, your child’s musical aptitude, listening abilities and purposeful movements are further developed.