Flute Lessons in Clements, MD

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I find that the most important part of studying an instrument is that the student gains an appreciation of music. Therefore, I make it an important part of my lessons to work on at least one thing that student is particularly interested in. I find that praising students often even when they make small gains is good encouragement and serves to further encourage them to play well and enjoy what they play. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I use the same books and methods that were taught to me. Trevor Wye's books on Tone and Technique form the foundation of learning the flute. A Rhythm A Day is exactly what it says - a different rhythm to practice that the student may encounter in music they play later. I also use daily breathing exercises to work on breath control - the most important part of playing the flute! Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

Lessons are challenging yet fun. As students improve their skills, I find they usually enjoy playing even more than when they started. I try to find ways to make scales and tone exercises more interesting so students are more likely to incorporate these things into their daily practice. It is also important to choose repertoire that is the right level of difficulty so students are not bored or frustrated. When a student is struggling with a new concept or a difficult technical challenge, I can offer them many different ways to identify and then practice the issue. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For the past decade I have been performing with the U.S. Navy Music Program in places like Australia, Japan, Costa Rica, New Orleans, and Norfolk, Virginia. I've been a featured soloist on clarinet and saxophone with concert bands, jazz bands, rock groups, and brass bands. Before joining the Navy I taught band and woodwind classes for a public school in Northeast Ohio, and I'm excited to begin working with students in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo Music

Making music should be fun! Part of that joy is being able to see your own progress. That's why I work with students' individual needs to set realistic goals for each lesson while keeping an eye on long-term goals. I create a warm environment for students to experiment and ask questions so they can better understand their instrument, musical ideas, and their own thought processes. I'm also conscientious to avoid getting too lost in the weeds of technique or theory that we forget to listen. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I typically start beginners with the Rubank method, as it contains a good balance of fundamentals, technical exercises, and fun, tuneful melodies. Particularly when working with children, I supplement this with my own devices, including flash cards and various learning games. I gradually incorporate solo material as appropriate. While I personally am primarily a classical musician, I make a point of including any style that is of special interest to the student in order to make music as enjoyable and relatable as possible. Read More