Drum Lessons in Haymarket, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

The most satisfying moment as a teacher is when a student finally "gets it", and for students, I find that lessons are the most fun when the student feels capable and not overwhelmed. I like to challenge my students and encourage them to exceed even their own expectations of their abilities. With this in mind, my overall teaching philosophy emphasizes gaining technical mastery over the student's chosen instrument, strong music reading and theory skills, along with creativity and improvisation to turn them into well rounded players who can hold their own in just about any music setting from the stage to the studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

It is this experience, that gives Mike an edge and understanding of what it takes to not only succeed in an academic setting but also in a 'real world' situation. Studying under great teachers himself, has given Mike the tools to design lesson plans specific to the student and be attentive to each students needs. Being a teacher of close to 25 years of all ages, he understands what it takes to make lessons fun, engaging, and all around great musical experience's that keep his students motivated and excited to get better on their instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

It is 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 a students desire to progress, and makes students eager tolearn more. By trying to find out what imspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

I began my teaching journey at my local church and later expanded to formal private lessons at home. One of the key challenges I faced was teaching piano to children as young as five years old. However, seeing how quickly they could assimilate music at such an early age has been incredibly rewarding. I emphasize the importance of regular practice for all students, especially younger ones, as perseverance and patience are essential values in developing strong piano skills and becoming accomplished musicians. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Music

My teaching methods are entirely based on the current abilities and individual learning style of each individual student.  I do reference a few standard and time-tested method books for various skill levels, however, every lesson will be customized to the goals and needs of the student. I strive to keep up with current MMEA audition repertoire for those students interested in pursuing those opportunities on the local and state level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I find that as useful as many of the methods that I have found most useful for my own performance are, almost every one of my students in drums, percussion and cello requires a different blend of study materials. As a general rule, I rely on providing a balance of classic (some teachers go as far as to say 'canonical') books, and a wide variety of unique listening and independence exercises I've developed over the years. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I came up through the Fairfax County band program. Due to circumstances beyond my control, I wasn't able to "give back" to this as a public school teacher. My wish now is to help as many current band students as I can. I relocated from Virginia and am looking to establish a presence in MontgomeryCounty. Read More