Music Lessons in Mc Lean, VA

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Lap Steel Guitar Ukulele Double Bass Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

i start beginning guitarists out with Hal Leonard Guitar Method Book One, because even if a player is not destined to rely on traditional notation, they still need to know the names of the notes, so they can communicate with others. I approach ukulele somewhat less formally, because chords can be played right off the bat--singing is encouraged. For bass students, ensemble is stressed from the get-go--bass is inherently a goup affair. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

My approach varies depending on the student's skill level and chosen instrument, but for beginners I always try to get them familiarized with their instrument: teaching them the basics of reading music and how to navigate the different keys (or strings, etc.). From there I start teaching various musical concepts, the rudiments of music theory, and begin introducing them to different styles of music. When the student is advanced enough, I start having them run through my own custom designed technique and skill drills, and have them start selecting music that they would like to perform on their own. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Music Keyboard

As an instructor, my job is to give the student every opportunity possible to discover their passion for music. The first lesson is always about providing a safe relaxed tone and finding out where that student's progress is. Not establishing an accurate assessment of their progress can be very destructive because it could cause me to come off as either too demanding or condescending. Depending on what their level is, I will design a custom curriculum to bring their weaknesses to the same level as their strengths. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

The love of music is one of the strongest passions in my life. I have been preforming professionally with the U.S. Fleet Marine Corps Music program for almost ten years. Through that program I have been able to perform in sixteen different countries for presidents, vice presidents, kings, queens, and prime ministers. These amazing opportunities I have been able to experience performing trombone the last few years would never have been possible with out the fantastic music teachers I have had along the way. Read More

Instruments: Cello

From my experience, students vary greatly in musical background, personality, and needs, so I view each new student as a blank slate. My philosophy has always been to patiently build a solid foundation and not rush into advanced pieces at the risk of accumulating bad habits. At the same time, I recognize how important it is to keep learning fun, so I negotiate the balance accordingly. The material I use consists mainly of Suzuki and Rick Mooney's technique books, with other supplementary books and pieces depending on the student's needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I am passionate about helping others find their passion especially in music. I love teaching people how to make cool sounds with their voices. What I run into a lot is that a long time ago someone told My student that they could not sing and it's funny how people carry that with them throughout their lives so my job is to change that perception. It's not always easy. I tried to give my students clear expectations of what I want and try to make them feel comfortable by using humor and getting them to relax and not be afraid to make an ugly sound Read More