Music Lessons in Brambleton, VA

Instruments: Voice

I begin with determining the objectives of my student. For example, a student may want to work on increasing his/her range, improving tone, learning techniques for a certain style, or may want to establish a repertoire of songs or “90-second cuts” for an audition. With that information, I design a program to meet these objectives. We proceed at a comfortable pace and monitor the goals and objectives often. My teaching style is relaxed and fun but devoted to working on proper vocal technique and confidence building. Read More

Instruments: Cello

From my experience, students vary greatly in musical background, personality, and needs, so I view each new student as a blank slate. My philosophy has always been to patiently build a solid foundation and not rush into advanced pieces at the risk of accumulating bad habits. At the same time, I recognize how important it is to keep learning fun, so I negotiate the balance accordingly. The material I use consists mainly of Suzuki and Rick Mooney's technique books, with other supplementary books and pieces depending on the student's needs. Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone

In the initial meeting with a student I talk through what they want to accomplish what genre's of music the would like to play and what kind of personality they have. Then I have more of an understanding of what direction to go in to personalize the teaching. I believe very much in the saying "there's only one way to Carnegie Hall PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE". I don't force structure and scales etc. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

I enjoy teaching students of various age levels and experiences. I am happy to help upcoming middle school, high school or college students. I tailor my lessons to fit the needs of each student I teach without pushing a student too hard. I try to use feedback from each student to determine and plan out lessons on the trumpet. I have various teaching materials that I am happy to share with my students in the off chance they do not have anything they are currently working on. Read More

Instruments: Voice

The goal of good vocal technique is to provide the singer with the tools to express themselves artistically with complete freedom. This freedom of vocal expression is built upon a few basic principles: an efficient breathing process, proper posture, coordinated bodily support, efficient phonation, and an open or relaxed throat. There are countless physical and psychological barriers that singers encounter which interrupt these qualities, and it is the responsibility of the voice teacher to identify those obstacles and provide the student with affirmative solutions to overcoming them. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I began teaching private lessons 9 yeras ago when some neighborhood friends encouraged me to share my love of music through teaching. Encouraging regular, consistent practice and keeping a journal of areas of focus during practice is one of the techniques I encourage for students of all ages to progress and grow in their enjoyment of the instrument. I love encouraging students to compose their own material, and to share their music in competitions and recitals, as a way to develop their passion for music and to stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard

My preferred piano method is Piano Adventures and I recommend using the Lesson, Theory, and Sight Reading books at each level. For guitar and voice I typically do not follow any specific method unless the student has a preference. For more advance piano students I typically will begin using Suzuki or move them to Burgmller Etudes and Schumann's Opus 68 - Album for the Young. I perform an assessment of new students in the areas of sight reading, music theory, rhythm, performance, and ear training. Read More