Music Lessons in Buckingham, DC

Instruments: Cello

My teaching experience actually started with tutoring friends and classmates in math and occasionally other subjects. I find that most principles of teaching are cross-disciplinary though, and it did not take me long to feel comfortable teaching cello. I maintained a small personal studio for about three years, during which time I also had a temporary gig introducing music to children with disabilities. As much as I can obsess over mastering my own skills and hobbies, it somehow makes me even happier to see and nurture that growth in others. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I earned a Doctorate in Musical Arts in Voice Pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory. My dissertation is entitled "The Application of Motor Learning Feedback in the Singing Voice Studio." https://ycp.academia.edu/ColinJohnson. In addition to my doctorate, I earned a Master of Music in voice pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory and Bachelor of Music in voice performance from the University of Iowa. I am a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), the Pan American Vocology Association (PAVA), and the Voice Foundation. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Watching a student develop their playing is an incredibly gratifying experience for me as a teacher. To help encourage this,I put a great  effort into connecting with the student's interests from day one. With each lesson, I work with them to set goals that are within their reach, while maintaining a relaxed, self-paced learning environment that is both fun and comfortable. My teaching style incorporates both traditional, and non-traditional techniques, all customized to meet each person's own unique needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

An audio clip of the 2 songs is available at the Ivory Tunes website. I also taught myself to play guitar at age 12. In fact some of the 7 songs I have completed were originally developed in guitar format. My preference guitar style is fingerstyle acoustic. I also possess 15 years experience as a very and successful USPTA tennis instructor and coach. I work routinely with ages 5 through 18 age level kids and teach the Game to adults as well. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

When it comes to teaching, I like to tailor each lesson to what the student needs, and that may be slightly different for each person. I find duets are a great way to get better at sight reading and improving tuning, so I usually bring a level appropriate duet or two to each lesson. Scales, basic music theory and even some music history are all part of lessons, in addition to other repertoire to develop tone, technique, and musicianship. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Whether it's a young beginner or an advanced adult student, I adapt my teaching materials and repertoire selection accordingly. Foundational Skills: I prioritize the development of fundamental skills, including proper posture, bowing technique, finger placement, and intonation. These basics form the bedrock upon which students can build their musical abilities. Repertoire Diversity: I introduce students to a wide range of musical genres, from classical to contemporary, to keep lessons engaging and inspire a love for music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching experience started after college, teaching a family friend bass guitar. From there I realized I could just as well teach guitar, piano, and saxophone as well. I find it rewarding to watch people grow and learn skills they can use the rest of their life, enriching their life with the expression of music. From taking private lessons of my own on saxophone and guitar throughout high school and college, I've learned that consistency of practice is key! Read More