Flute Lessons in Montclair, VA

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I begin with method books to teach the fundamentals and establish good practice routines. Once a good foundation is established, I like to move into solo and ensemble repertoire to develop lyricism and expression. For adults, I find out what the students are interested in, and direct my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun regardless of ability level. I have rigorous practice routines for all ability and commitment levels. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet

A typical lesson with me will be structured like this:Emphasis on basics (scales, studies, tuning, etc)Sight Reading and Ear TrainingLearning techniques through pieces I am always aiming for technical building through the process of working through real music in order to keep lessons fun and engaging. I typically start beginning students with Essential Elements and work through the basics with that approach. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Students can expect to work from a variety of method books to study instrumental techniques, and music theory. For beginning students I prefer Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, but also work with any method book a student uses in their band class. Students will also work from the Peters/Yoder Master Theory Series. We will also incorporate a students "favorite" music to help develop listening skills and gain a level of comfort and familiarity with improvisation from the very beginning of their lessons with me. Read More

Instruments: Flute

My teaching experience dates back to high school when I taught lessons during my senior year. I had a very solid foundation in the basics of breathing which has served me well. I believe in emphasizing the basics and a regular practice schedule to get the most out of the flute. I like to encourage them to pick out music that they like to go along with the classical music repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I work to customize my teaching to each individuals learning style, and aim to give each student the tools to achieve success in whatever their musical goals may be. Central to my teaching goal is the belief that learning an instrument should be fun and build confidence, rather than anxiety, and I strive to make the lesson experience a safe and comfortable space, where stress is low but focus is high, so maximum learning can take place. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I consider myself to be both traditional and old school at certain times, however. I firmly believe that students will lose interest in music quickly if I always teach all students the same techniques and follow conventional music theory. For piano lessons I usually begin without any books until they are comfortable with the weight and the feel of the piano keys. After that I really like to use the John Thompson's piano book grade 1, and I have had many good results with my students in the past. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I have been playing the flute for 30 years! Back in school, I performed and competed actively. I love to play and love to teach. In another life, I would be a professional musician, but for now, I play in my spare time and try to encourage others by teaching. I know the feeling of performing and helping others feel emotion with music. I also know how great it feels to master a difficult piece of music. Read More