Goodrich- Piano teacher Wendi Kilbreath strives to ensure her students not only make music, but memories.
‘The biggest thing I try to do is have fun with (students),? said Kilbreath.
For Kilbreath the old-fashioned, all business approach to music hits a sour note. While she takes the education of her students seriously, Kilbreath thinks people learn better if they are enjoying the process.
‘I try to make sure kids have a good time because if they’re not having a good time we have to change something,? said Kilbreath.
That same love of music which Kilbreath hopes to instill in her students has been a part of her own life for as long as she can remember.
‘I had been brought up with music as a kid,? said Kilbreath. ‘I think (teaching) it was just one of those things I was meant to do.?
Kilbreath teaches students kindergarten aged through adults.
She has especially sought to bring music education to home-schooled children, who might not otherwise be exposed to that style of learning.
Pupils are taught the fundamentals of music along with music theory, note values and notations, and even learn about a new composer each month.
‘When they go to read music when they’re with me, they will learn what every notation on that page means,? said Kilbreath.
Once the fundamentals have been established, Kilbreath offers a range of musical genres students can study, including classical, blues, Christian music, Broadway and movie scores.
For Kilbreath, one of the great joys of teaching is watching her students grow as musicians who can take pride in their abilities.
‘I had a few students who were in the middle school talent show last year and they were so excited to show off what they could do,? said Kilbreath. Additionally, Kilbreath has had students who have gone on to prestigious music camps and others who have decided to pursue a music major in college.
Kilbreath teaches about 35 students and is currently enrolling more students. Lessons are available noon- 7:30 p.m year-round at her Goodrich home. Cost is $15 for each weekly half- hour lesson.
‘We really try to have a good time,? said Kilbreath. ‘We really try to have fun with it. (Students) go away from here and they’re excited to come back.?
Details: (810) 636-7576.