Music Lessons in Montgomery Village, MD

Instruments: Violin Fiddle

My primary goal is for people to have fun while learning music. I believe that you can never teach someone something they have no interest in learning and I'm most committed to making sure that students at all levels are excited about what they are doing. Especially with fiddle, my goal is to make the experience enjoyable and useful. Hopefully before too long you can get out to a session and strum along even if you are stone cold beginner. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For children under the age of 6, I start with Music for Little Mozart, which is a fantastic introduction to music and piano playing. For children older than 6, I generally start with Bastion's Piano Basics because the music is very engaging and the music gradually increases in difficulty. I also add in music outside the method book in order to provide music that interest them and to focus on specific challenges. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

My teaching philosophy revolves around nurturing musical independence among my students. It is my goal that they can confidently approach a piece, making informed decisions about both technical and musical aspects. To facilitate this, I employ creative mnemonic techniques, transforming complex concepts into catchy and memorable phrases. By integrating multiple schools of music and violin playing, including Russian, French, and American traditions, I provide students with a holistic foundation. My approach blends technical exercises inherited from pedagogues like Ivan Galamian with interpretive insights gained from world-class musicians. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods are unique to each student and allow for every student to develop as a complete musician and begin making music as soon as possible. I am committed to helping develop all around musicians who are both proficient in the technical aspects of their individual instruments as well as knowledgeable about the theoretical aspects of creating music. I often use simple songs that the student knows as the catalyst to developing the students understanding of basic music concepts and ideas. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I have taught private voice lessons for well over a decade in various genres from classical to contemporary. I earned a Doctorate in Musical Arts in Voice Pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory. My dissertation is entitled "The Application of Motor Learning Feedback in the Singing Voice Studio." https://ycp.academia.edu/ColinJohnson. In addition to my doctorate, I earned a Master of Music in voice pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory and Bachelor of Music in voice performance from the University of Iowa. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I typically start beginners with the Rubank method, as it contains a good balance of fundamentals, technical exercises, and fun, tuneful melodies. Particularly when working with children, I supplement this with my own devices, including flash cards and various learning games. I gradually incorporate solo material as appropriate. While I personally am primarily a classical musician, I make a point of including any style that is of special interest to the student in order to make music as enjoyable and relatable as possible. Read More