Music Lessons in Edmonston, MD

Instruments: Voice

For beginning students I stress the importance of reading music, so I heavily work on their rhythmic and melodic vocabulary. I am not set on a particular methods book because I am a firm believer that all students learn differently and some methods work better for some than others. I like to be adaptive in my teaching and mold my lessons to fit the needs of each individual student. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

 If the student does not reach his/her goal and they put in genuine effort and most importantly, heart, then undoubtedly they have gained from it and I am never one to harshly criticize a student.  If I think they can do better I will tell them how, but for me, music is made primarily for enjoyment and self improvement and not for the approval of others or to be better than others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Organ Conga Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Alfred Piano Basics. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to work from Czerny and introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I've been teaching piano and voice in the Northern Virginia area for over fifteen years. I have worked at studios such as Jordan Kitts Music and Music and Arts, and have done in-home lessons at students homes, which I still do now. My students range from beginners to intermediate level players, and my approach combines popular music with classical, jazz and traditional styles. Of course, in the beginning they learn to play simple songs that they are familiar with like Frere Jacques, Old McDonald, Jingle Bells and so on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As a teacher, I am all about developing a passion for music and setting realistic musical goals for each lesson. I try to gently push my students in the right direction by finding out what kind of music really inspires them so I can tailor my instruction to their desires. However, if you're my student, I have high hopes and expectations for you! I know that with consistent practice, patience, and a gentle push in the right direction, we work together to learn any piece of music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Students can expect to work from a variety of method books to study instrumental techniques, and music theory. For beginning students I prefer Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, but also work with any method book a student uses in their band class. Students will also work from the Peters/Yoder Master Theory Series. We will also incorporate a students "favorite" music to help develop listening skills and gain a level of comfort and familiarity with improvisation from the very beginning of their lessons with me. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

My first experience giving private lessons was at a summer music camp right before my senior year in high school.  I have consistently taught piano and cello students for over 10 years independently and as an affiliate of local music stores.  My goal as a teacher is for each of my students to make gradual progress each week as they become more proficient with their exercises and music.  I hold at least 2 recitals a year which I strongly encourage everyone to take part in. Read More