Music Lessons in Laurel, MD

Instruments: Voice

I prefer to start with vocal techniques such as efficient breathing, posture, diction, and overall vocal warm ups. This gives me a gage of what my students learning style is. Also, this gives me an idea of what the student needs to progress in a healthy singing! I typically start with a students favorite song within the genre theyre most interested in. I believe that a student will work to the fullest if they are truly passionate about the work they are learning. Read More

Instruments: Double Bass

Having played professionally since the age of 18, I bring a solid professional ethic, traditional technique and boundless enthusiasm to both playing and teaching Double Bass. Having traveled extensively and toured with The Smothers Brothers and Phylis Diller, I can provide insight into the practical aspects of performance and practice routines. Although I encourage the mastery of traditional Double Bass technique with the bow, I love to encourage and assist students in a variety of styles and idioms, including Orchestral Bass, Jazz, Country and Bluegrass. Read More

Instruments: Violin Fiddle

Born in Washington D.C., I trained on violin in the Arlington area, starting with Suzuki and moving to more traditional classical studies, eventually composing and playing my own compositions starting in my early teens. I attended H.B. Woodlawn Secondary Program where I played in orchestras and numerous string ensembles, including [three?] years with the D.C. Youth Orchestra. At age 5 I took up fiddle, working with expert players from Vermont and North Carolina in jam sessions in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I believe that motivating and inspiring students requires a different approach. But nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music. Therefore, its important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a student desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn and practice more. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bassoon

Although it is my responsibility to teach fundamentals of playing the instrument and reading music correctly, I spend as much time as I can on not becoming enslaved to the printed page. In other words, once a student begins to play at a higher level, I introduce how to express oneself and the music in an aesthetically satisfying manner. Breaking down the barriers caused by musical notation and enabling an individual to express themselves musically and with proper phrasing and sensitivity is my primary goal. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I recommend that anyone starting to learn music begins at the age of ten simply because of finger strength and focus. I also try to ensure that they practice at a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes a day between lessons to help them reach their full potential. I stand by the "practice makes perfect" saying wholeheartedly. I give small amounts of homework after every lesson and try to create a fun environment for learning that is stress-free. Read More