About Dave Thomas

Dave Thomas is a music educator who has been working with students of all ages since 2010. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Sam Houston State University and has taught in both public schools and private settings throughout his career. His students have ranged in age from four to eighty-four, giving him the opportunity to work with a remarkably diverse range of learners, musical interests, and goals.

Dave teaches piano, guitar, and beginning strings, with particular specialties in classical guitar and music theory. His public school experience includes producing over 50 concert programs and directing honor choirs and chamber orchestras. His private teaching experience has allowed him to work more individually with students, adapting instruction to their abilities, interests, and pace of learning.

Dave believes that learning an instrument should involve more than simply learning to play the correct notes. He places a strong emphasis on note reading, rhythm, and music theory because understanding how music works gives students greater independence and confidence as musicians. At the same time, he believes that enjoying the experience of making music is more important than pursuing perfection. Music should be something students enjoy doing, not simply another skill they are expected to master.

Every student comes to music with different interests and goals. Some may want a strong classical foundation, while others may want to learn their favorite songs, develop their skills for school ensembles, or simply find an enjoyable creative outlet. Dave's approach is to provide the structure and fundamentals students need while allowing room for their individual interests to shape their musical journey. For younger students, he also believes that parent involvement and student ownership are important parts of meaningful progress.

Through Midtown Music and Art, Dave hopes to give students a strong musical foundation while helping them discover the confidence, creativity, and lifelong enjoyment that can come from making music.