Music Lessons in Leonardtown, MD

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 Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

The most satisfying moment as a teacher is when a student finally "gets it", and for students, I find that lessons are the most fun when the student feels capable and not overwhelmed. I like to challenge my students and encourage them to exceed even their own expectations of their abilities. With this in mind, my overall teaching philosophy emphasizes gaining technical mastery over the student's chosen instrument, strong music reading and theory skills, along with creativity and improvisation to turn them into well rounded players who can hold their own in just about any music setting from the stage to the studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Lessons are at each students pace. Supplemental materials are studied according to the musical taste of the student. The materials reinforce concepts learned in the lesson book. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

There is no set method that works for each student. For young children that are just beginning, I like to start them with the Bastien Piano Basics or Piano Adventures series, but I will supplement these books with other material depending on the student's needs. I like to give beginner students little pieces that will help them understand the fundamentals of music in context so that they are still making music while they learn the basics - this keeps them from getting bored! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Keyboard

Adult students I have taught typically want to learn to do two things: 1) accompany themselves on an instrument while singing a popular song or 2) learn to play with others ... whether that be a jam session during a jazz set ... or playing behind someone else that is singing or playing a lead instrument. For these adult learners I lean toward teaching chords, arpeggios and scales. Important: I suggest that a student only practice 15 to 20 minutes a day ... whatever amount of time it takes to cover the lesson. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I offer a traditional string class. It includes Essential Elements and Suzuki Books. I also have recommended materials for diverse and interesting cello studies. I like to work with children of all ages and I enjoy helping them develop new skills, especially in the area of music performance. Starting cello lessons at a young age I am well aware of what was required of teachers and instructors to get me to be the cellist I am today. Read More

Instruments: Flute Clarinet Ukulele Recorder Music

I use a variety of clarinet method books based on my current professional library. I also order based on student need. Method books are selected based on the students ability. Lesson plans are developed based on the students abilities, progress, and expressed goals. After each lesson, I email out to the student and their guardian, a run-down of what was covered with next weeks agenda and what the student should practice. Read More