Music Lessons in Middleburg, VA

Instruments: Guitar

With beginner students I like to start off learning to read music (it's not that hard!) I like to use the Mel Bay Method 1 book as a teaching tool. This book has two strong points, it explains the fundamentals of music very well and is easy to understand, while starting off playing songs right away. Once we have enough of the basics down then I start working on guitar techniques and learning songs that focus on those skills. 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 Trombone

In 2012 I started teaching students in their homes. I quickly learned the ins and outs of teaching and have never looked back. In the fall of 2013 I gained additional experience while teaching music to kids at Ideal Day Care center. At first I was unable to engage the students, but soon I was the star teacher at the day care center. Watching their faces light up every time they saw me was truly one of the best experiences of my life. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I have a passion for teaching piano. I work well with ages 6 through adult and take great pleasure in helping students develop their love of music through piano lessons. Lessons are tailored to each students ability and interest. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

The basics for any instrument are extremely important. For trumpet learning about breathing, how to use your fingers to more easily change notes, how to stand properly, etc. All exercises to help these are very important. Other instruments have their own specific basics which are equally important. While these technical aspects of playing instruments are vital to growing on any instrument, the goal of playing an instrument is obviously to play music. 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