Guitar Lessons in Vienna, 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: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Music Keyboard

For begining student I typically start with a book called Essential Elements. I supplement some of the things in the book with other literature and hand written exercise to help enhance learning experience. For Adults I try to find what genre and music style they would like to work on. This then allows me to plan a custom learning experience that best suits them and what they're looking to gain from the experience. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Classical Guitar

Since I'm primarily a Classical Guitar player, I emphasize the technique required for it, which is mainly finger-style. My primary teaching method is derived from Aaron Shearer, which many famous guitarists have used, including the well known Manuel Barrueco. The main instruction book is written by Aaron Shearer, which teaches classical guitar technique and standard music notation sight reading, but I'm also flexible. If I see a student would prefer to strum and accompany their own or others singing, I teach from Hal Leonard's Complete Guitar Method book. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I began teaching guitar at 16 for several local music stores in the Baltimore metro area, and quickly took to working with a wide range students in a short period of time. The passion I developed for teaching the instrument at a young age pushed me to further branch out, and begin offering private lessons from my home studio several years later. In addition to this, I also pursued my own path to learning more about my instrument by attending the Community College of Baltimore County where I earned an A.A in General Studies with a concentration in music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

My teaching style is very analytical yet engaging! I try to establish a good relationship before pushing a student. At that point I will ask the student to play to the best of his/her ability. I teach in a style that helps children isolate problem areas, so that they can practice specific excerpts they are struggling with. I also do a lot of ear training and music theory to ensure that students are obtaining well-rounded musical skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Organ Conga Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

While attending The Berklee College of Music, Mark studied with, Jazz Great Gary Burton. Gary took Mark under his wing, and became an important figure in Mark's life. Through this relationship Mark developed relationships with such names, as McCoy Tyner, Michael Brecker, Peter Eirskin, John Schofield, Carla Bley, Makoto Ozone, Steve Swallow.and others. Mark Returned to the Washington D.C. area after an injury to his hands. He spent many years rebuilding his chops, and working as a studio engineer, and producer. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For students of all ages, it is important to remember that the individual is key. From the youngest beginner to the seasoned pro, everyone learns in their own individual way. Because of this, I find it very necessary to hone in on the interests, aptitude, and abilities of each of my students in order to give them the best possible instruction. A student who is engaged on their own terms and who has a say in their own path through music instruction often becomes a successful and lifelong musician. Read More