Music Lessons in Montpelier, MD

Instruments: Violin Fiddle

I teach traditional Appalachian/Old Time and Irish fiddle in a fun, learn-by-ear style that's pretty accessible to anyone beginning or more advanced. As a lifetime fiddler player and music historian, I provide a cultural and and musicological background to a wide array of folk traditions in the U.S. and throughout the world. I have a flexible approach to teaching, and can work with classical notation and sheet music, in addition to playing by ear and improvising. Read More

Instruments: Voice

For Voice: Bel Canto technique Eurythmics Dramatic analysis of text/music for understanding of musical line and interpretation. For Harp: Grandjany method Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

The most important elements of my teaching style are patience and consistency. It takes time and a great deal of repetition to become a good musician, as my own experience attests to. I encourage my students to set goals that start small and gradually increase over time, and are consistent with their time commitment. I am very flexible, and can adapt to each student's particular needs with ease. My methods are best demonstrated in person though! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

I've enjoyed teaching a wide variety of students each year since 2009 with most being middle or high schoolers. Many students the opportunity to perform in recitals or other public performances and several students successfully auditioned for Maryland All State Ensembles. I was a private instructor and led woodwind sectionals at the Bullis School in Potomac, MD where I taught lessons for 8 years. My favorite style of music is from the Hard Bop Jazz Era of the 1950s-60s but I also enjoy teaching and performing a wide variety of styles. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Harmonica Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Even though the students often wanted to give up and many times gave up, I would not give up on the student, and would continue to not only try to make a valuable learning experience, but an enjoyable one that they would remember forever. Once I began to teach private lessons, I kept the same mindset. If the student is having a bad day and not soaking in as much information, I would make sure that there was something new they could perform to ensure they felt some sort of progress and enjoyed their time, whether is was a piece with a new note, or a new fingering or technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning 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. I not only use books, but videos, lots of exercises to use when at home and formal presentations. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

Not all students learn the same way, and it is my job as a teacher to be flexible and apply different teaching methods and styles based on the needs of an individual student. This process takes time, and I prefer to work with new students consistently and regularly during the first few months to establish a relationship, discover their individual passion for music and find their unique learning style. I hope to do this by instilling my own love and passion for music. i understand the challenges and rewards that come in learning music, and I love to share my own experiences with students to better connect and engage with students. Read More