Flute Lessons in Mason Neck, VA

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: Flute Piccolo Music

I use a combination of methods tailored to a student's needs and goals. With very young students, I use play to focus on movement and musical thinking. With young students who are reading or starting to read, I usually use a combination of the Suzuki method and traditional French methods like Moyse, focusing on singing, memory, and tunefulness while allowing students to self-direct the learning of reading sheet music. With teen and adult beginners, I focus a bit more on literacy and rhythm while providing a combination of quickly learned progressive pieces and long-term projects. 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

I knew I was going to become a music teacher at the age of ten, so I absolutely understand how much of an impact teachers have on students from a young age. I have been teaching larger ensembles for most of my college years, but have had private students around my school schedule for many years. Finding what motivates the student is key. If the student isn't motivated or doesn't care, then I need to change something! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Drums Music

I believe in a gentle but firm approach to teaching. Also I will always meet my students where they are at individually and build them up from there. I don't believe in a "one size fits all" sort of method. I know discipline goes hand in hand with music, and the music doesn't come from the instrument but rather the musician. Part of my teaching method includes physical conditioning, I expect all of my students to care for their bodies as well as their instruments and I make no exception to this rule. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My teaching style varies for each student's individual needs. For beginner students I often try the easiest way for the student to enjoy the lesson while also giving the most value in their time. It is my desire to show every student that they have what is capable of making great music, now. Creating a supportive environment for the student to explore their instrument in all ways and gain the understanding that everything they do on their instrument is an opportunity to learn and grow is of utmost importance to me. Read More