Music Lessons in East Ocean View, VA

Instruments: Voice

I am a recent graduate of James Madison University (JMU) with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Music Education. Throughout my degree, I participated in many performance opportunities. I have sung in the Opera Scenes program at JMU and a student production of Iolanthe. I spent a month this summer in Sulmona Italy at the Center of Opera Studies in Italy performing in Suor Angelica, Elixir of Love and Don Giovanni. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

Practice Regiment 1. Play everyday when humanly possible a) Warm up by starting out playing scales slowly, gradually increasing the speed. Use a metronome or drum machine. b) If you feel any pain or discomfort, STOP and come back later. You must build up the muscles first. 2. Knowing where the notes are on the fret board a) Memorize! b) Start with the lowest string and play all the notes, all the way up the neck. c) Repeat with each String. d) Say the notes out loud. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Whether performing solo recitals or collaborating with ensembles, each performance is crafted to resonate deeply, inviting listeners into a world where every note tells its own story. This extensive exposure to diverse musical settings has not only refined my skills but also enriched my understanding of the piano as both an instrument and a vessel for personal expression. Transitioning from performer to educator over 11 years ago opened a new chapter in my musical journey. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I am a very strong believer in hands-on teaching. We will always warm up at the beginning of a lesson, and work on technique and basics. After, depending on your concentration and skill level, we could work on expanding your repertoire, or learning new grooves and rhythms. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

One is listening analysis. I like to play music of different styles and have students listen to different parts of a song. I also like doing rhythmic dictation. This is where a student listens to a line I play and tried to write it out note for note. It enables them to learn how to physically write the notes and fully understand the value of each note. Another option is drum set. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For all students, our first meeting will be an assessment to figure out where to start! I typically have students begin by playing something they are comfortable with that they enjoy, and we go from there. I am comfortable teaching a variety of methods and like to help the student achieve their individual goals, whatever those may be. I do like to supplement most teaching method books with some kind of scale/etude regimen depending on the level, to round out their practice throughout the week between lessons. Read More