Music Lessons in Clifton, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

Michael T. Brown is a diverse performer, equally comfortable with everything from operatic literature to Scottish folk songs. On stage, he is regarded as a strong actor with a rich voice, and he is known for being a quick read. His opera roles have included Captain Fitzbattleaxe from Gilbert and Sullivan's Utopia Limited, Dr. Blind in Die Fledermaus, Monostatos in Magic Flute, Peterman in M. Choufleuri, and numerous chorus and supporting roles. Read More

Instruments: Voice

A typical hour voice lesson involves three parts: 1) warm-up/vocalizing and listening to ones voice to learn more about the voice, sound production, breathing and placement; 2) working on a particular technique or perceived shortcoming; 3) applying the techniques from the lesson to a song or gaining confidence in performance. My teaching style is relaxed and fun but devoted to working on proper vocal technique and confidence building. For example, to be a good singer one must have a good understanding of the muscles and parts of the body that are involved in breathing and how that relates to making beautiful sounds. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone

I began playing trumpet at a very young age, and have found it, and music in general, to be the most valuable means of communication available to us. I graduated from University of Maryland School of Music December 2014, and have played in a number of bands (both jazz and classical), taught private lessons, and worked as a festival clinician for local schools. I feel that private lessons provide an environment where both student and teacher may learn from each other, and where that knowledge is imparted in a friendly environment at a pace that is comfortable for both of us. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My approach to teaching is that the student should be having a good time playing. There are so many different pieces of music out there, students can play a great variety of works at all different skill levels, and still be able to develop their intonation, articulation, and fingering accuracy. I will make sure students are working on pieces challenging enough so that they get something out of playing it, but not so challenging they are discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Teaching has always been something that I just simply love to do. There is nothing better than watching a student gradually gain skills, knowledge and success. Teaching students also helps me to become a better musician. Sometimes a student can teach me something about myself either as a teacher, drummer or even as a person. A skill I have learned from my students is to be able to pick up if my teaching methods aren't breaking through to a student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My private teaching experience dates back to my late high school years and after I graduated from college I began to teach professionally and I also include a wider range of instrumentations. I specialized in woodwinds and I can also teach novice piano and brass instruments as well. In my seven years of teaching experiences, I had helped many students with their auditions and musical growth. Some of them made All-State and/or junior All-State, many students made into All-County bands. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I have been involved with music for as long as I can remember. My first love was singing, and I still enjoy singing today. My first instrument was the accordion, after which I moved on to piano and keyboards. I remember my piano teacher, Mr Scholl, was a neighbor and he would come to my house for lessons. I had no idea that years later as an adult I would be "paying it forward". Read More