Clarinet Lessons in Ledroit Park, DC

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I make sure my students learn something new in each week, and experience success with weekly goals that are practical and achievable. Using my training and experience as an educator and performer, I focus on helping students build a solid foundation, and then develop their musical abilities as they grow and learn. Parents and students can expect a professional demeanor, and clear communication about all aspects of a student's progress. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

For beginning students who are children, I usually start with a songbook, such as the Accent on Achievement method book. Once the student has a grasp on the fundamentals, I begin to introduce solo repertoire. For adult students, I try to find out what the student is interested in pursuing, and then if they are a beginner, I teach fundamentals through the Rubank method books and supplement with songs that are approapriate to the student's taste. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

I grew up in the Washington DC area playing Clarinet, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, and Baritone Sax. I attended Walt Whitman High School and was a member of its award winning Jazz Ensemble as a Tenor Saxophonist. In 2003 I was selected as the lead Alto Saxophonist for the Maryland All-State Jazz Ensemble. I went on to study Jazz at Emory University in Atlanta under Gary Motley and E.J. Hughes. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet Recorder Bassoon

I thoroughly enjoy teaching and I want my students to enjoy learning. I try to keep lessons fun and relaxed while maintaining high, yet reachable expectations. Helping students determine and envision the kind of musician they would like to become aids in providing a significant foundation for learning. Students must move at their own pace and getting to know the student and their needs is one of my top priorities. 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: Saxophone Clarinet

I want to train a generation of musicians who are able to skillfully express their full range of emotions through their chosen instrument. I believe that starts with a foundation of support, persistence, and consistency. I teach my students by approaching skills and musical concepts with patience and clear intent to progress to a higher level. I am cautious to not overwhelm students by piling them with music that is way beyond their skill level. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I like to teach without books as much as possible as I feel it allows the student to internalize musical concepts better. The book series I use however is the Rubank method books. These have easy fundamental exercises to help keep the chops in shape and to work on reading music. I also recommend students buy sheet music of music they like(assuming it is at their playing level) and will happily work on it with them. Read More