Music Lessons in Chillum, MD

Instruments: Piano

My teaching career officially began back in 2007, when I was hired to work at a small, family-run music school in Laurel, Maryland. It was in this test lab that I began to formulate an approach to learning piano quite different from the more traditional ways the instrument was commonly taught. I found that, by giving students a more solid foundation, they were able to be more self-sufficient and independent, allowing them to progress further than they would have otherwise. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

In lessons, I strive to keep the atmosphere collaborative rather than dictatorial. I encourage you, the student, to ask questions, and I believe it's imperative for you to understand why what you're learning is important. I do my best to make you feel comfortable trying new things and making mistakes. Ultimately, learning vocal technique requires a delicate balance of putting your trust in the teacher without abandoning individual thought. Knowing this, I try to engender the necessary trust inmy knowledge while collaborating with you to incorporate your own words, metaphors, thoughts, and feelings into your approach. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

I've been teaching trumpet for nearly 30 years, over half that time since I've been living and teaching in my home studio in Woodbridge, Virginia.  I encourage each student to not just practice, but to practice correctly so as to show them that the quality of their practice time will yield better results than the quantity of the same.  I tell them:   If you practice correctly, you get better. If you get better, you play with better players. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

I find the process of exploring music and finding solutions together with my students to be intensely uplifting and meaningful, since, as mentioned earlier, each musical soul is unique. While I set clear standards of excellence, I am also patient with all levels and abilities. Indeed, teaching beginners (including adults) is a special passion of mine. A typical lesson will include warm-ups, scales, arpeggios and etudes, followed by detailed work on repertory pieces. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I cater to the needs of every student. My enjoyment from music lessons is sparked by the enjoyment of my students. I find the appropriate level of engagement and challenge for every student, and apply strategies and assignments accordingly. I've worked with so many students over the years, that my style is that which is flexible based upon student interest. I am able to teach Classical, Jazz, Blues, Rock, Folk, Pop, and every style in between because I find a way to teach songs that my students like. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

My method focuses on the student's goals. Once the student's goals are established, I focus on the techniques required to achieve said goals. In addition to "traditional" instrumental technique, I focus on listening and analysis (for intermediate/advanced students). For beginners, I use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. My method focuses on the student's goals. Once the student's goals are established, I focus on the techniques required to achieve said goals. Read More