My 12 year old daughter has been taking songwriting lessons from Billy for six months now. Wow!! My daughter’s musical skill, knowledge, confidence and inspiration are at an all time high. Billy has not only helped her become a stronger writer lyrically, but Billy has also helped her better understand how to fine tune the guitar, vocals and melodies in her original songs as well. Billy has helped my daughter with the entire songwriting process – from writing to demoing. In six months time, my daughter has written dozens of songs and is now recording her first album!! Working with Billy has been life changing. Billy is immensely talented in so many areas. She’s also patient, kind, and fun. Working with Billy has helped my daughter reach an entirely new level in music and we’d recommend her to any (serious) artist!
— Jamie Faulds (Huntsville, AL)
I’ve been taking both guitar and vocal lessons here, and I couldn’t be happier with the progress I’ve made. What sets these lessons apart is that I’m learning the right way. No shortcuts, no bad habits, just solid techniques that actually build a strong foundation. Billy is knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging. Her motto, “Just show up,” is something that has really stuck with me, and she tailors to your own pace. If you’re serious about learning guitar or improving your vocals, this is the place to do it. I feel motivated every week, and I can see real results in my playing and singing. Highly recommend!
— Rachael Douglas (Fenton, MI)
Billy is awesome! She has been helping me for a year now. Started with vocals, and expanding my vocal range. Now we are working on my song writing. Just knowing that I have weekly sessions with her helps motivate me to write a new song regularly, and she is always there to give her feedback and support, helping me to become a better song writer and to improve my existing songs as well. I have definitely noticed the improvement in my abilities to sing and write/record music since I met Billy!
— Derrick W (Canada)
My daughter Elise has been taking songwriting and guitar lessons with Billy for more than a year now. She already knew Billy as an incredibly talented singer-songwriter through Youtube. The fact that she could have her idol as her music teacher was a huge thing for her. In no time Billy and Elise clicked and Elise became more and more confident. Billy is such a patient music teacher and she allowed Elise to learn at her own pace. It was wonderful to see Elise’s self-esteem grow during the lessons. With the coaching of Billy, Elise could soon write, sing and play her own song. Without any hesitation whatsoever I would recommend Billy to anyone who’s looking for music lessons. I’m a teacher in Belgium myself and I was impressed by Billy’s didactical approach. Even the fact Elise’s native language is Dutch poses no problem at all.
— Carlos Timperman (Belgium)
I took piano lessons from Billy. Not only is she very talented but she is an amazing instructor who not only taught me to read sheet music and proper form but she took interest in my old hand injury. Billy really cares about her students and gives them the best individualized instruction. She has a vast array of knowledge and she is an amazing human being! I highly recommend her to anyone wanting to learn to play. Thank you Billy!!
— Melissa Holland (San Diego, CA)
I cannot say enough good things about Billy. She is extremely kind and understands students who may need a little more help and patience in learning. My son has learned so much from her in a no pressure environment. Definitely recommend her, she makes learning music fun again.
— Ashley B (Highland, Michigan)
Before my songwriting lessons with Billy I had not written a thing since English class at school. Billy has taught me to be creative, as well as giving me the musical theory to back up my (new) creative ideas. I’m now writing lyrics regularly, and also know how to go about putting music to songs too. And none of this would have been possible without the ‘easy to absorb’ teaching and constant encouragement from Miss Pettinger. I also had many singing lessons from Billy too, and it’s been noticed by friends and family the ‘vastly improved’ confidence in my singing abilities……and willingness to sing in the first place! I had already been a fan of Billy’s music for many years, I am now even more amazed and grateful for her skills as a teacher of music.
— Andy Hawkins (Northampton, England)
I’m 74 years old. I’ve always wanted to play the guitar and one day I went to class and there was Billy, the most patient, cheerful, smiling, caring individual in the morning to teach you how to play the guitar. After one year of practicing I was able to get up on the stage and play and sing the song Me and Bobby McGee. Each lesson was a great enjoyable period of time with her smiling class, encouragement and soft-spoken voice to make sure you learn how to play the guitar. It was great. I highly recommend her as a music teacher of several types of instruments and voice.
— Gordon Keene (Madison, AL)
Billy is absolutely wonderful! From the very first lesson, her kindness and patience set her apart. She creates such a welcoming, supportive environment that makes learning guitar feel fun and achievable, no matter your skill level. She has a real gift for explaining concepts clearly and adjusting her teaching style to fit your pace and goals. Billy celebrates every bit of progress and makes you feel truly confident as a musician. Beyond her skill as a teacher, Billy’s warmth and genuine care for her students shine through in every interaction. You can tell she loves what she does! If you’re looking for a talented, encouraging, and kind guitar teacher who will inspire you to keep playing and growing, Billy is the perfect choice.
— Tim Price (Fenton, MI)
Billy is an amazing teacher. I decided to start this past spring and I haven’t played (piano) in over 40 years. She is extremely educated with music but doesn’t overwhelm me. I learn something new every week and leave my lessons proud of what I’ve accomplished. She will be my piano teacher for life. Highly recommend. Like she says - just show up.
— Gretchen Menard (Holly, MI)
Billy the Kid is amazing! She connects with our little singer and we can see such a boost in her confidence! We all enjoy the effort of the studio recording to share with family near and far. Her ability to broaden her style of singing has been enlightening for us nonmusical parents as well.
— Kyleigh Naismith (Brighton, MI)
My daughter takes piano lessons with Billy and she has been wonderful! She’s so patient and kind while also being very knowledgeable! My daughter loves her and has already learned so much! Highly recommend!
— Angel Maverick (Fenton, MI)
I have always had difficulties learning to play guitar, and you tube videos can only teach you so much, but (Madison) Music Lessons has increased my playing abilities in such a short time. Other Music lessons from other instructors can not compare to the professionalism and experience that (Madison) Music Lessons can give. I definitely would recommend this establishment to anyone looking to learn or further their music journey.
— Jennifer L Major (Holly, MI)
I just have to say when I finally decided to take vocal lessons I decided not to tell anyone I was taking lessons and I figured after maybe 6 or 8 months of taking lessons hopefully people would start to notice. After my 3rd lesson with Billy I played at an open mic night and everyone there that has heard me before came up to me and told me that was the best I have ever sounded. People I didn’t know were coming over and telling me I did great. It was pretty overwhelming. I have never liked the way I sound and now I am growing so much confidence singing. Billy is very supportive and positive and totally believes in me and my abilities. If you’re considering it, just do it. You won’t be disappointed. I am doing things with my voice I never figured I could do and I’ve only had 4 lessons. She is the real deal. Thank you so much for all the help.
— Steve Rumble (Fenton, MI)
I started taking songwriting and voice lessons with Billy to see if I was able to write songs and at least become a competent singer. Almost 100 songs later, I’ve become a better guitar player and I not only like the sound of my own voice, I genuinely enjoy singing. Supportive, encouraging, no nonsense and kind, Billy is an incredible teacher. If, like me, you think it might be too late to start, I’m here to tell you you’re wrong and it’s not.
— Matej Novak (Canada)
Billy is an amazing teacher and mentor! My daughter started taking guitar and songwriting lessons from her while in high school to help her prepare for college auditions. Billy’s focus on technique with clear instruction and exercises to help her improve helped her to grow as a musician. My daughter took from Billy both in person and online during the Covid shutdown and was able to benefit from both types of instruction. She guided my daughter’s songwriting and helped her produce a song and get it out into the world. As far as auctions went, she got into every school where she applied including Berklee School of Music as a songwriting major!
— Donna Foreman (Huntsville, AL)
Highly recommend!!! This is the real deal for music lessons, coaching, songwriting and recording! Anyone beginner to advanced will love it! The knowledge, real experience in the music industry, expert teaching techniques along with inspiration, motivation and ease of scheduling make it an essential part of any musician’s life.
— Josh Freeling (Fenton, MI)
How do I even describe this human being... I’ve worked with Billy as a songwriter, mentor, producer, editor... she is skilled, intuitive, supportive, fun, genuinely ‘gets’ you as an artist and wants to let you be you in the creative journey, great teacher, gives clear and easy to understand instructions, has great instincts, improves your creative work without trampolling on it, always has a ‘fix” for whatever you’re struggling with vocally/ in recording process, spot-on production choices that completely go with the vision and enhance the songs, manages the time well to get the best results, encouraging, dedicated, goes the extra mile to deliver top notch service and make amazing things happen. She brings a wealth of personal and professional experience with a variety of types of performers and artists. She will push you to achieve your best work whislt somehow simultaneously knowing how to make your life easier. And she also happens to be an extremely kind and genuinely good person. Don’t pass up an opportunity to work with this one! You won’t regret it!
— Sam Neale (London, England)
Good morning Billy. Just wanted to mention I had a great time with the vocal training last night. Your technical style and enthusiastic approach to teaching is exactly what I have been looking for. I firmly believe you are going to take my singing abilities to the next level. Very excited to see what the future holds!
— Jack Dyllan (Fenton, MI)
Going on two years of lessons with Billy. She’s incredibly informative, patient, and encouraging. I couldn’t ask for a better guitar teacher.
— Dan Boyher (Ballwin, MO)
Inspiring musician and teacher. If you ever wondered if you have what it takes to be a singer or musician, she’ll show you the answer is yes and support you while you make the journey. Also, pristine vocal cords!
— Duane Steele (Canada)
Billy is such an inspiring teacher. Guidance from someone with so much real world experience makes such a difference.
— Marc Hudson (Flint, MI)
Billy is amazing! Talented, non-judgemental, easy to talk to, makes you feel very comfortable; Billy has created a safe space for you to be yourself. The experience and skill this artist/teacher brings to the lessons are impressive. Highly recommend!!
— Jodie Schweiger (Highland, MI)
We are so thankful to have found Billy. She is not only a gifted musician but a truly wonderful person with a big heart. She has been incredibly patient and caring with our son, and it’s been amazing to see how much she has helped him grow, both musically and personally. If you are looking for a fantastic music teacher, Billy is the one!
— Nick Wrisley (Fenton, MI)
Talented musician, vocalist and songwriter, with extensive education in both music theory and principles of learning. Billy asses talent level and goals to set a customized course of learning for students of all ages and provides great coaching at every step. I have nothing but the highest praise and appreciation for Billy!
— Max Dull (Fenton, MI)
I learned a lot from my lessons, as did my son. Very accommodating, kind, and genuine.
— Chris Wight (Simi Valley, CA)
I recommend Billy tor piano lessons 100% She cared for my daughter’s growth in every way.
— Jonathan Yarbrough (Athens, AL)

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