Music Lessons in Great Falls, VA

Instruments: Violin

I think the violin is very special. It’s such a difficult instrument that requires lots of commitment and dedication. I would have never reached my level now if it weren’t for the teachers who were firm and persistent with me. I translate this back to my own teaching methods so I am a firm teacher but at the same time I do my best to make lessons engaging and that my students take pride in their improvements. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Double Bass Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I have been teaching private lessons for 10 years. Encouraging students to practice regularly and to have fun with their instrument is essential for the learning process. I stress the importance of these two things so that the student may develop a love for music and their instrument of choice. Also, being able to teach a variety of musical styles keeps students wanting to learn. I encourage students to not only learn written pieces, but to create their own music and individual sound. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I think it is true that teachers often learn as much as students do. I always find myself reflecting throughout the week on lessons that I taught, and considering ways in which I can better interact with and tailor my instruction toward each individual student. My most important duty as a teacher is to help students connect with and enjoy the music, so I make a point of identifying any patterns and points of interest, and encourage them to express themselves freely while respecting the composers' intentions. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am a dedicated educator that believes in my student's achievement. During my graduate studies I had the opportunity to educate myself in various styles of teaching. Today, I use traditional music education tools with my students with elements of the Russian conservatory style of learning that developed fine pianists like Rachmaninoff, Prokofiev and Shostakovich. Student's in my studio can perform at entry level up to college skill. I am able to teach students who are advanced and interested in taking piano to new heights. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet Recorder Music

For those who are beginning on their horns, I will be using the Essential Elements book. Within this books starts off with the basic whole notes and half notes than moves to quarter notes. Every other page adds a new note to their repertoire. For those who have been on their horns, I will be using the 2nd/3rd Essential Elements book. Those who have no trouble with those books, I will be introducing them to solo works and adding some theory in there for they can understand the basics of music and what comes with it. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

The basics for any instrument are extremely important. For trumpet learning about breathing, how to use your fingers to more easily change notes, how to stand properly, etc. All exercises to help these are very important. Other instruments have their own specific basics which are equally important. While these technical aspects of playing instruments are vital to growing on any instrument, the goal of playing an instrument is obviously to play music. Read More