Clarinet Lessons in Topsfield, MA

Instruments: Clarinet Music

My outlook on musical training begins with an exceptional foundation of fundamental skills. I stress the importance of air and finger efficiency, as well as an excellent ear. Developing those skills early in musical development predisposes a student to succeed. When the student shows a clear understanding of such concepts, focus will be shifted toward broader topics such as alternative practicing techniques, reed working, technical knowledge of the clarinet, and a comprehensive study of the standard repertoire, as a supplement to each student's individually chosen repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music. Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Keyboard

I believe on an emphasis of performance over theory; learning to make a kinesthetic connection with your instrument is most important in developing both a good sound and adequate technique. The value of a good warm-up is most important in establishing a successful practice routine. We are all pressed for time, so I help students focus on the most important elements of breath control, embouchure and articulation at the same time that they are acquiring technical facility through the logical development of scales and arpeggios. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Trumpet Trombone Flute Clarinet Double Bass Euphonium

I have over 15 years experience teaching privately as well as teaching band and orchestra in public schools. At one time I taught thirty-eight, half hour band and orchestra sessions every week. This included private Jazz ensembles and orchestra—all at the Elementary level. I taught 4th and 5th grade band and orchestra for the San Ramon Valley School District for 5 years as well as after-school ensembles for 9-11 year olds. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

To be a better musician requires a strong solid foundation of the fundamentals. Clarinet maintenance, equipment, reeds. Body posture, finger position, embouchure. Musical understanding and expression, scales, etudes, and other repertoire. When I meet a new or prospective student, I first evaluate where in their training are they coming from. Beginner - Amateur - Advanced and so forth. Depending on what I initially hear by their playing I would advise them accordingly and inquire what they hope to achieve out of the lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer Recorder

Every student is different and has their own taste in music. I hope to help every student find the same joy in playing music as they do in their listening. This requires two important aspects: development of technique/facility on one's instrument, and a sense of acheiving one's personal musical goals. I try to give every student basic exercises to work on to develop facility on their given instrument, but I tailor those exercises towards music that the student has expressed interest in learning. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I was recently hired by Pearson to create a series of instructional videos to accompany their new textbook. In them, I teach students about different words one uses to write about music (timbre, tempo, etc). The publisher has called me "a natural, with a colloquial style that is very engaging and easy to understand." While I am otherwise new to teaching music, I have taught sailing for the past 9 summers of my life. Read More