Dr. Michael C. Wheeler (Executive Director, Voice, Piano, Hindusthani
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Michael C. Wheeler is a highly accomplished individual with a diverse background in the field of music and related disciplines. He is a Doctor of Sacred Music and currently serves as the Executive Director of the Jean Bechtel School for Music. Michael holds an impressive array of academic degrees, including a Doctor of Sacred Music, an MFA in music composition, an MA in Ethnomusicology, and a BA in Music History. Additionally, he has earned diplomas in psychology, sociology, and philosophy, demonstrating his broad intellectual interests.
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Throughout his career, Michael has made significant contributions to the music world. He has been widely recognized for his publications and performances across North America, India, Japan, the UK, and Italy. His artistic endeavors span various mediums, including film and multimedia, and he has worked with clients from around the globe, showcasing his versatility and international reach.
With his extensive knowledge and experience in music, coupled with his multidisciplinary background, Michael C. Wheeler brings a unique perspective to his role as the Executive Director. His commitment to the Jean Bechtel School for Music undoubtedly contributes to its success and ensures a vibrant and enriching environment for aspiring musicians and scholars alike.
Dr. Wheeler may mentor Foundational, Specialist, Professional, and Advanced Diploma seekers.
With his extensive knowledge and experience in music, coupled with his multidisciplinary background, Michael C. Wheeler brings a unique perspective to his role as the Executive Director. His commitment to the Jean Bechtel School for Music undoubtedly contributes to its success and ensures a vibrant and enriching environment for aspiring musicians and scholars alike.
Dr. Wheeler may mentor Foundational, Specialist, Professional, and Advanced Diploma seekers.
Alyssia Dunning (Voice, Beginning Piano)
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Alyssia Dunning, a talented and dedicated 25-year-old musician, has spent the past eight years immersing herself in the world of music and singing. While primarily focusing on teaching voice, Alyssia's passion for music knows no bounds.
With deep admiration for influential artists like Etta James, Taylor Swift, and Lana Del Rey, Alyssia draws inspiration from their captivating compositions. Alongside her musical pursuits, she finds joy in art, reading, and makeup, exploring various avenues of self-expression. |
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Approaching her teaching role with genuine humility, Alyssia eagerly looks forward to connecting with new students and sharing her profound love for music. Her commitment to her craft and genuine desire to inspire others drive her as she embarks on this journey, fueled by the belief that music has the power to touch lives and ignite creative flames.
Kimberly Eichman, PrDip, AA (Pre-K, Piano)
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Kimberly Eichman holds a Professional Diploma in Private Music Pedagogy and an Associate of Science in Early Childhood Development. She is a highly skilled and dedicated piano instructor and preschool teacher who is passionate about providing her students with a high-quality music education. She believes in creating a positive and enjoyable learning environment for her students, where they can develop a lifelong love for music. Kimberly's teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that music has the power to transform lives. She strives to instill not only technical proficiency but also a deep appreciation for the art form in her students. Her unique approach combines traditional teaching methods with cutting-edge concepts, tailored to suit each student's individual needs and goals. With a background in early childhood education, Kimberly understands the importance of engaging and effective instruction.
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She incorporates a wide variety of music activities that reinforce and expand on the concepts taught at the piano. By using computers, keyboards, and other interactive tools, she creates a comprehensive approach that helps students become well-rounded, skillful, and knowledgeable musicians. Kimberly's track record speaks for itself, as she has successfully taught hundreds of students and achieved remarkable results. Her blend of traditional methods and innovative teaching concepts ensures that her students learn easily and enjoyably, paving the way for a lifelong connection to the enchanting world of music.
Kim may mentor Foundational, Specialist, and Professional Diploma seekers.
Kim may mentor Foundational, Specialist, and Professional Diploma seekers.
Taylor Bennett BA, MS (Violin/Viola/Cello, Piano, Voice)
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A musician since the age of seven with a decade of instructional experience, Taylor Bennett has been involved with local youth choirs and orchestras since 2007 and is proficient in violin, cello, piano, viola, and vocal performance. The Umpqua Chamber Orchestra featured youth soloist in 2019, she has performed violin solos in multiple venues across the county. A longtime student and colleague of Dr. Wheeler, Taylor continues to study the art of music performance as she helps young students discover the same passion for music she did so many years ago. With a bachelor's degree in elementary education and an MS in curriculum and instruction, Taylor is excited and equipped to instruct students of all ages and instruments.
Taylor may mentor Foundational, Specialist, and Professional Diploma Students. |
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Michael Hansen, SpDip (Violin, Cello, Musical Oddities)
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Michael Hansen holds a Specialist Diploma in Private Music Pedagogy. He is a seasoned and versatile multi-instrumentalist, boasts an impressive 20-year journey in the realm of music. With a focus on the violin and cello. Michael's musical odyssey has taken him far and wide, allowing him to absorb the rich influences of genres ranging from soul-stirring southern bluegrass to the evocative melodies of Irish and Scottish folk traditions.
Driven by an unwavering passion for music, Michael's true calling lies in the art of teaching. With infectious enthusiasm, he imparts his vast knowledge and expertise to aspiring musicians, nurturing their talents and igniting a deep appreciation for music. Combining technical precision with heartfelt expression, Michael's mastery of multiple instruments serves as a testament to his dedication and unwavering commitment to his craft. |
Through his patient and engaging teaching style, he brings out the best in his students, guiding them toward their full potential as musicians. His genuine love for music shines through in every note, as he cultivates a lifelong passion for this timeless art form within those he has the privilege to teach.
Michael Hansen may mentor Foundational and Specialist diploma seekers.
Michael Hansen may mentor Foundational and Specialist diploma seekers.
Colin Hurowitz, M.M.E. (Percussion, General Music)Colin Hurowitz was born in Mt. View, CA in 1988, but moved to Lake Oswego, OR in 1989. Shortly thereafter he moved to Douglas County and lived there until finishing high school at Roseburg High School in 2006. During his time in school, he sang in choir, volunteered for talent shows, and played percussion in various instrumental groups. He attended Sutherlin Schools until 11th grade, transferring to Roseburg High School. Colin continued to perform in marching band, percussion ensemble, and bands outside of school. Colin enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2006 as a percussionist in the band and played with the Third Marine Aircraft Wing Band from 2007-2010.
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Mr. Hurowitz served as a drumset player, a marching percussionist, a principal timpanist, and section leader. After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, Colin attended the University of Oregon and earned two Bachelor’s degrees in Music Performance and Education, as well as a Master’s of Music in Music Education. Colin has performed consistently for over 15 years professionally, performing over 400 shows a year in the Marine Corps and over 40 performances a year while attending the university. Colin has also been hired as a percussionist for various theaters, choirs, and bands.
Colin has also been a music director, a marching percussion instructor, and as a guest artist. Colin currently works at Hucrest Elementary School as the K-5 music teacher, at the Umpqua Community College as the percussion instructor, and the Jean Bechtel School for Music as an instructor in winds, brass, percussion, piano and guitar.
Colin may mentor Foundational, Specialist, and Professional diploma seekers.
Colin has also been a music director, a marching percussion instructor, and as a guest artist. Colin currently works at Hucrest Elementary School as the K-5 music teacher, at the Umpqua Community College as the percussion instructor, and the Jean Bechtel School for Music as an instructor in winds, brass, percussion, piano and guitar.
Colin may mentor Foundational, Specialist, and Professional diploma seekers.
Matthew Krepky (Woodwinds)Matthew Krepky has a history in Jazz performance with an emphasis on improvisation theory and performance techniques with 18 years playing saxophone; he is skilled in Alto, Soprano, Tenor, and Baritone saxophones, and clarinet. Matthew is an active performer in the area with over a decade's experience in large live shows, competitions, and professional recording. He has completed two albums with a third in production. Matthew teaches basic instrument techniques all the way to advanced music theory and jazz performance and everything in between. As a professional performer, Matthew is invested in providing the most diverse background of skills from his experiences to best create a foundation for success in the music industry, from performing to recording or anything else his students might want to pursue.
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Jake Tranter, CaDip (Guitar)
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