Piano Lessons in Somerville, VA

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Alfred’s piano book library Essential Elements. I recommend Alfred’s Prep course for age of 5 to 6 years old. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

Hello! My name is Donovan, and I am an instructor who specializes in ear training and technique. Originally being a self-taught musician, I began with piano and harmonica, then eventually branched out to guitar, bass, banjo, among several others. I have ran sound equipment from an early age as well, learning how to set rigs for full bands and how to mix and master tracks for recording purposes. I have met and played with many famous and unfamous musicians, and find that the highest amount of talent is undiscovered and uncultivated. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I love watching my students develop a passion for music! I encourage students to practice regularly and to persevere toward specific goals. It is my philosophy that taking lessons alone will not develop the musicians skills, but through consistent practice, perseverance, and patience, a student will be able to see real progress and eventually achieve their goals. No dream is achieved overnight! Some of my favorite moments during my four years of teaching thus far have been seeing my students achieve their goals, whether they are landing the lead role in a musical, being accepted into the top choir at their school, receiving high marks at contests, or something as simple as performing in their first recital, having a break-through moment with a new technique during lessons, or memorizing their first foreign-language piece. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

I find the process of exploring music and finding solutions together with my students to be intensely uplifting and meaningful, since, as mentioned earlier, each musical soul is unique. While I set clear standards of excellence, I am also patient with all levels and abilities. Indeed, teaching beginners (including adults) is a special passion of mine. A typical lesson will include warm-ups, scales, arpeggios and etudes, followed by detailed work on repertory pieces. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I know that performance is an important part of learning an instrument so I offer bi-annual recitals as well as an opportunity to play at an annual festival for adjudication and to enter in competitions for cash awards and scholarships. I also believe that no student is too old to learn music! You can learn at any age, I am always looking to take on new students and share with them my love of music! Read More