Music Lessons in Catlett, VA

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

Instruments: Drums

I have been playing drums for 14 years and started when I was 10. The influence I had from other drummers that I saw was what sparked my interest in playing them. Seeing the greats like Roger Taylor of Queen, John Bonham of Led Zeppelin, or even now Matt Greiner of August Burns Red, I wanted that, but I knew I couldn't get there without practice. After taking up lessons myself, and I continue to do so even after all those years, I have learned what it takes to be a great drummer. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Double Bass Keyboard

I have always been passionate about the role music can play in the lives of people of any age, and have enjoyed numerous opportunities to be a part of the music education of many. My experience includes eleven years of private teaching combined with professional performance experience around the world. I have a pedagogical approach to teaching that I like to combine with the specific interests and needs of the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

This ability to switch between instruments and incorporate modern techniques of music making are essential to his teaching philosophy. From beginner piano, drums, and voice to advanced styles Mike can cover the gamut of musical goals for any age. Since graduating with a Masters in Performance, Mike has toured the country and abroad in several working groups that have played large festivals, clubs, venues, and notably the Kennedy Center, Strathmore and Presidential Luncheon at the White House. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I love method books and written resources. Most of the books I use are specific to the goals of the individual student. So below is a list of a few books that I like: Syncopation by Ted Reed Stick Control by George Stone Patterns series by Gary Chaffee The New Breed by Gary Chester Realistic Rock by Carmine Appice The Art of Bop Drumming by John Riley The Commandments of RB Drumming by Zoro Future Sounds by Dave Garibaldi Four Way Coordination by Marvin Dahlgreen and Elliot Fine Advanced Techniques for the Modern Drummer by Jim Chapin Studio and Big Band Drumming by Steve Houghton Universal Rhythms by Dave DiCenso Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginner students who have never held an instrument or don't know anything about music we'll go over basic guitar fundamentals we'll talk about different types of guitars, how to hold the guitar in classical and folk style positions, how to press your fingers on the strings (because there is a way), body parts of the guitar, basic music concepts such as beat and rhythm, how to read music both standard and tabs, basic guitar exercises, and a few fun songs once the fundamentals have been practiced enough. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I've been playing piano since age 7. I started playing with a promise to my parents, they would never have to tell me to practice in turn they brought a piano for. I still have and practice on. I have taken lessons up until College, where I graduated from Bennett College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. I play on a regular basis at the Greater First Baptist Church of Washington DC. Read More