Music Lessons in Indian River, VA

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

In high school I was fortunate to work with some local jazz musicians. One was a famous jazz guitarist named Lenny Breau. We had an artist in residence program with composer/ drummer Steve Grover and he was a big influence on me along with Dick Demers. I have performed in symphonies. I have done many Broadway musicals playing in the pit. I have played in many bands. Before I moved to Virginia I was living in Maine and playing in 5 bands. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Euphonium Tuba

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of fundamentals, I will begin to 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. If the students need help working on a particular work for their school (ex solo ensemble, college audition, drum corps audition, concert band works, jury auditions, etc.) I am willing to help the students be successful. Read More

Instruments: Violin

My teaching style is based on the student's skill level. I teach at your pace! Not only do I teach at the student's pace, I have each student construct their own goal calendar to keep in my records as well as the student's home. I like to call it a "music vision board" because to me there are no numerical deadlines on a student's musical progress. I like to find out what inspires a student in order to better my teaching. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

The first opportunity I had to teach someone trumpet was during my junior year of high school. There was a freshman saxophone player who decided to switch to trumpet, so my band director had me teach her. Ever since then, I have been studying different pedagogical techniques for both trumpet and music in general. My belief is that, in order for a student to have the most success, they must set a goal for themselves. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

For beginning students, I typically teach using Hal Leonard's Essential Elements book and the Flesch Urstudien book. Every student is different. I treat my students as individuals and adjust my teaching style to achieve optimal results. The way you practice reflects on how much enjoyment you get from playing and how well you perform at recitals/auditions, etc… I spend a significant amount of time, especially with new students, on the art of practicing. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I strive to provide effective tools for children and adults of all ages that reinforce vocal training, confidence, precision, and vocal hygiene. The last decade of experience gives me a solid foundation to ascertain the temperament and learning style of students and create a specialized and integrative lesson plan for them to utilize in order to enhance their gifts. My personal style is an authoritative one, not authoritarian or passive, wherein I connect with my students with positive reinforcement. Read More