Music Lessons in Loxley Gardens, VA

Instruments: Piano

I am well versed of the many piano method books out there for students today. I recommend to my younger students Alfreds Premier Piano Course or Fabers Piano Adventures. For my adult students, I recommend Alfreds All-in-One Adult Piano Course because it offers a coherent approach to a well-rounded music education at the piano. Once my students have grasped the fundamentals, I begin to introduce repertoire that fits their needs and wants. Read More

Instruments: Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium Piccolo Mallet Percussion

For my own beginner students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the 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. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I love seeing my students set and reach goals. I make sure that realistic goals are set and that I show the student the steps to reach those goals. If a student does not feel successful, then they are more likely to not practice as much or quit all together. I want my students to feel excited about music and want to practice. I try to find out what motivates and inspires each student in order to tailor my teaching to each individual. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I am a recent graduate of James Madison University (JMU) with a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Music Education. Throughout my degree, I participated in many performance opportunities. I have sung in the Opera Scenes program at JMU and a student production of Iolanthe. I spent a month this summer in Sulmona Italy at the Center of Opera Studies in Italy performing in Suor Angelica, Elixir of Love and Don Giovanni. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

Practice Regiment 1. Play everyday when humanly possible a) Warm up by starting out playing scales slowly, gradually increasing the speed. Use a metronome or drum machine. b) If you feel any pain or discomfort, STOP and come back later. You must build up the muscles first. 2. Knowing where the notes are on the fret board a) Memorize! b) Start with the lowest string and play all the notes, all the way up the neck. c) Repeat with each String. d) Say the notes out loud. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For beginning students, I usually teach with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books starting with book 1 to book 3. Once they are comfortable, and progression is recognized, I will introduce Suzuki Violin School. Not only do I solely focus on the music, I give students hand and bow exercises they can do during lessons or while just sitting at home watching TV. I also recommend that my students practice in the bathroom while at home because of the natural acoustics it provides. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I have taught guitar lessons for the past 5 years and have taught a number of students. I strongly emphasize the importance of practice, patience, and diligence in learning and pursuing music. I believe that learning music is a skill that will carry one far in life as it is one of the few pursuits that is for the most part self-motivated. Read More