Music Lessons in Gaithersburg, MD

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: Piano Guitar Voice Cello Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is informed by trauma-informed care and a student-led philosophy. This means that I take into account the frustration that learning a new instrument can entail, and use therapeutic techniques to make sure my students are regulated during these moments of frustration. I provide structure and guidance for my students, but give them opportunities for free exploration, decision making, and leadership throughout a lesson. During lessons, I like to emphasize practice techniques and thinking outside the box when approaching difficult or new musical content. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I have a customized approach to instruction that keeps pace with the student's skill level and ability. Goal setting is an important activity that I use to sustain interest and encouragement. For example, we may decide together that we will attempt to master a particular inspiring piece of music by a specific date. Naturally, the date will be reset depending upon the student's progress. I like to incorporate contemporary music into the lesson so that my students can see that the violin can be used widely in various musical genre. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet Trombone Bass Guitar Euphonium Acoustic Guitar

While I am a classically trained musician, I believe that a student will best learn when presented with material that they are passionate about. A student's curiosity will drive learning far more than any other source, so any directions I can help foster in a student, I will take that opportunity. If students are struggling, I have a wealth of resources and materials of my own which I can offer for new routes of study, or lesson plans to stimulate learning. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trombone Bass Guitar

I like to focus evenly in three areas: music fundamentals, technique, and ear training. I like to identify goals with each student, as well as identify the weaknesses standing in the way of improvement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

For beginning students I start with Bastian Piano series. It has 4 books including piano, performance, technique and theory, which helps the student to have a full comprehension of piano playing. I will test students and then select a level to start. Once they complete the highest level, I will introduce solo repertoires and Hanon and Carl Czerny to enhence their skills. For adult students I have a professional book which Peabody is using to teach adults keyboard skills from the beginning. Read More