Music Lessons in Alcova Heights, DC

Instruments: Drums

For the beginner student I start with the essentials to reading music. Once the student has a understanding of rhythmic note values, I generally start with Alfred's Drum Method Book One or Elementary Drum Method by Roy Burns. I also start working snare drum rudiments and focus on issues like grip and wrist stroke to ensure correct technique. I use a range of different books and material for drumset, according to where the student's skill level and musical interest is. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

For beginning students who are children, I usually start with a songbook, such as the Accent on Achievement method book. Once the student has a grasp on the fundamentals, I begin to introduce solo repertoire. For adult students, I try to find out what the student is interested in pursuing, and then if they are a beginner, I teach fundamentals through the Rubank method books and supplement with songs that are approapriate to the student's taste. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

My goal is to develop a personal and holistic plan to teach each student. I do not believe in nor was a I a product of 'one size fits all' teaching. Music is a very personal and rewarding lifelong journey and I take special interest in developing each student's love for music and his or her instrument. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching guitar independently for 3 - 5 years and I am a published musician who loves to show students how to play by intuition. I will show you the basis of music theory and I am very encouraging of the students. I will always try to bring the students to the next level so they can be masterful of there instrument. I am very kind, fun and reasonable. I will teach you how to play songs as well as write and compose your own and teach you the fundamentals for you to carry the gift of music for the rest of your life. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Piccolo Music Keyboard

I began teaching privately in the greater Milwaukee area in 2012. With my help and motivation, a fifth grader decided to keep his flute and play in his beginning band, despite his families' circumstances. Later, I picked up an interested eighth grader, who eventually received a Gold at regional solo contest and also made the all-state band. Motivation, "keeping it real", and an upbeat attitude have continued to yield personal and academic results in my studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music

I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. If a student isn't having fun in their lessons, then I'm not doing my job! My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

A native Washingtonian, tenor saxophonist Brian graduated from the prestigious Duke Ellington School of The Arts, a product of master teacher and musician Davey Yarborough. He earned his BFA from The New School University in New York City, studying under Arnie Lawrence, Steve Neil, Charles Davis, Reggie Workman and Chico Hamilton. In 2008 Brian completed a Master of Music (MM) degree from Howard University where he was a graduate teaching assistant and student of saxophone virtuoso, Charlie Young. Among others, Brian has performed with Curtis Fuller, Gil Scott-Heron, Shirley Horn, Stanley Turrentine, Stanley Clarke, Mickey Roker, Butch Warren, Freddie Redd, Tom Abbs & Frequency Response and currently plays with Tomas Fujiwara and the Hookup. Read More