Flute Lessons in West Menlo Park, CA

Instruments: Piano Flute Recorder Piccolo

I first started teaching in college, taking courses in flute pedagogy in 2007, and working privately with local high school students. Since 2011, I have had a regular studio of private flute (and recorder or piccolo) students as well occasional students on other wind instruments and piano. I've also taught a variety of wind and chamber ensembles. I believe that every student is unique and learns best when that individuality is celebrated. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

Depending on a student's musical background, I would typically start with foundational exercises like scales/arpeggios/broken chords and discussions of essential music theory elements to help a student progress. If the student is brand new to the flute, I would also do some breath work, and introduce exercises to improve tone and understand tuning. After the basics, I'd introduce solo repertoire and help students prepare for any performances they would like to take part in. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Ukulele Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music

I start lessons by warming up and doing exercises. For children, I do this in a listen and response setting. Then I will work through school songs or performance pieces, focusing on rhythms first, notes second and musicallity third. These 3 aspects lead to musicial mastery. I finish each lesson with an easy cool down. With in each lesson, I focus on musical styles that the students are interested in and work towards goals that the student set for themelves. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I love seeing my students grow in their knowledge and appreciation of music! Excellence is rewarding, and I teach the process to get there from whatever level we begin. I use positive reinforcement and notice what the student is doing right. Then, I give critique and an action plan to improve performance. It feels good for the student and teacher when they learn the methods to break down what is currently difficult into smaller pieces so that it is both manageable and possible to go further than they thought. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Drums Ukulele Recorder Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

The key ingredient to learning is interest. I believe that my students need to have an interest in what they are playing so that they can keep their minds and spirits engaged. Rudiments require attention and practice, but there is much more to learning an instrument than just technique; passion also needs nurturing. If a student is really in to Star Wars, for example, I will gladly incorporate the 'Imperial March' into their rudimentary studies. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

For beginning students, I place a large emphasis on the fundamentals i.e. scales, chord progressions etc. I also start them on solo pieces and like them to choose the pieces they are working on. I believe that if they choose their repertoire then they will have greater love and enthusiasm for the music. I also encourage them to push beyond what they think they can do. I work hard to match my teaching style to the needs of each and every student. Read More

Instruments: Flute Clarinet

For flute, I use method books by Trevor Wye.  If the student is a beginner, I will start the student with the Beginners Book for the Flute by Trevor Wye (Book 1 and 2.)  Once the student is finished with these books, the student is now ready for the intermediate and advanced books by Trevor Wye.  It is a set of 5 books that focuses on each aspect of the flute, such as tone and technique. Read More