Clarinet Lessons in Catlett, VA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My first experience as a teacher came as a sophomore and junior in high school. I was involved with a program where high school students would work with elementary school band students once a week, and help them work on their band program music and develop their musicality. I found the experience to be extremely rewarding, and have maintained that interest in teaching. I spent time in college working as a music theory tutor for beginning music students, and in graduate school worked to develop and implement lesson plans for beginning clarinetists. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I consider myself to be both traditional and old school at certain times, however. I firmly believe that students will lose interest in music quickly if I always teach all students the same techniques and follow conventional music theory. For piano lessons I usually begin without any books until they are comfortable with the weight and the feel of the piano keys. After that I really like to use the John Thompson's piano book grade 1, and I have had many good results with my students in the past. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

Classes for beginners will focus on tone quality, articulation, rhythm, reading music, and playing in time. Students will learn breathing and fingering techniques as well as structured routines for practicing at home. Intermediate players will begin by mastering the 12 major scales and arpeggios in straight and swing patterns. Basic 12-bar blues structure will be introduced and students will learn to improvise using the blues and pentatonic scales. Students will begin to develop an appreciation for different styles of jazz through listening and ear training. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bassoon

Although it is my responsibility to teach fundamentals of playing the instrument and reading music correctly, I spend as much time as I can on not becoming enslaved to the printed page. In other words, once a student begins to play at a higher level, I introduce how to express oneself and the music in an aesthetically satisfying manner. Breaking down the barriers caused by musical notation and enabling an individual to express themselves musically and with proper phrasing and sensitivity is my primary goal. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet Recorder Bassoon

For beginner clarinet and bassoon students, I usually start with either the Standard of Excellence or Accent on Achievement method books. More specifically for intermediate or more advanced students I use the J. Weissenborn Method for Bassoon and the H. Klose Method for Clarinet. Once students have progressed, at-level solo repertoire is introduced. I also try to find or write music that is current in order to spark and keep interest in their chosen instrument and to keep students engaged regardless of their ability. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

My teaching style is very analytical yet engaging! I try to establish a good relationship before pushing a student. At that point I will ask the student to play to the best of his/her ability. I teach in a style that helps children isolate problem areas, so that they can practice specific excerpts they are struggling with. I also do a lot of ear training and music theory to ensure that students are obtaining well-rounded musical skills. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I have a deep love for music because of the powerful role it has played in my life. It has healed me, strengthened me, and given me a sense of purpose. I want to pass that along to my students. It is the greatest joy to see my students progress past what they thought they were capable of. My goal with teaching is to take my students on a journey that goes beyond learning the fundamentals. Read More