Music Lessons in New Hope, PA

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

My teaching style is based on providing the student with as many "light bulb" moments as possible. These moments of goals being realized are the achievements which drive students to excel and are imperative to their confidence. Students who feel stuck or unmotivated are rarely in this position as a result of limited resources, but rather the feeling of accomplishment which is the result of great effort. Everyone learns differently, but generating lessons to strengthen weaknesses and help remember previous teaching is vital when considering a student's enthusiasm for their craft. Read More

Instruments: Double Bass

For young beginners, I assess the best approach - be it a particular method book or writing out my own studies geared toward the individual. From the first lesson, proper bow technique is emphasized, helping the student get a pleasing sound in the first lesson. For older students (teens and up), I teach to their goals and interests, welcoming and encouraging their input. Communication is vital. I also give listening assignments to help introduce students to varied repertoire - orchestral, chamber, and even vocal. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

My new students typically spend their first lesson and sometime their second getting used to playing the trumpet for the first time; the goal is to learn proper breathing, posture and tone. I have found the best method book for students is the "Learn to Play the Trumpet/Cornet" method book and always ask that students purchase the Arban's Method book, a must have for any trumpet player. Once the student is proficient in beginning methods, I like to move on to technical studies and the Sigmund Hering Etudes, as well as studies in the Arban's Method; if the student has progressed well enough Concertos and solo performance music will be added. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I am very flexible in my approach.  I understand that there are many way to achieve the desired result.  I am always available to answer questions and welcome them.  I am not doctrinaire in my approach.  Each student is unique in their strengths and areas which need more attention and I strive to meet these needs on the individual level. I enjoy working with enthusiastic students, regardless of level. I find listening to recordings and live performances to be an invaluable part of the learning process and try to include this whenever possible. Read More

Instruments: Voice

My method of working with the voice is to first get a sense of what the student's goals are. These include both vocal goals and career/performance goals. We will then work together to form a plan to achieve them. This will include exercises tailored directly to the student's vocal needs and desires and guiding the student to repertoire that will both be fun for them to sing and will teach them more about the concepts we are working on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

I'm a passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students to help them discover the beauty of music making and achieve their individual goals. I graduated from Jacobs School of Music with a degree in classical flute performance. Under the private tutelage of Kathryn Lukas, soloist and former principal flutist of the Santa Fe opera, I was rigorously trained in orchestral playing, chamber music, solo performance, and technique. I discovered my love for teaching during school when I had my first student four years ago and have been teaching privately ever since while performing orchestral gigs and contemporary projects in conjunction. Read More