Music Lessons in Occoquan, VA

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

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola

I dont have only one. It depends on the child or the adult. Someone might need Suzuki, some Essentials, some russian method(Radionov) and also music that they like! I try to be flexible and to understand whats best for them! Also I try to keep a balance between fun and dedication, for them to also be aware that music requires discipline even when you do it just as a hobby! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I never want to pressure or overwhelm a student with too much information or expectation, because instead of the instruction being seen as a challenge, it is interpreted as an unenjoyable command, and that discourages the student from practicing to meet their goals, instead of motivating and inspiring them. What I find works best is relating lessons to popular current music, further exploring the bridge of dynamics that make up the songs that the student enjoys. Read More

Instruments: Drums

My approach to teaching starts with the rudiments. Every Student of mine has to have a good grasp on what stickings are avalible to them. Following the studies of rudiments, i will teach them about note values and reading music notation. Once they have a fair understanding of the fundamentals, i will then begin to assign homework where they can read whole peices of music and scores. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For the past decade I have been performing with the U.S. Navy Music Program in places like Australia, Japan, Costa Rica, New Orleans, and Norfolk, Virginia. I've been a featured soloist on clarinet and saxophone with concert bands, jazz bands, rock groups, and brass bands. Before joining the Navy I taught band and woodwind classes for a public school in Northeast Ohio, and I'm excited to begin working with students in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

Teaching is most rewarding when you see the student enjoying themselves, while improving on their instrument. I believe that each student has their own specific musical journey, and it is important to set realistic, attainable goals that help move that journey along at the student's specific pace. It is important to have honest positive communication about the students progress, always focusing on the positive. When working with young students it is necessary to set an example musically, professionally, and personally as well. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For beginner students I usually start off with the Hal Leonard 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 my lessons engaging and fun, no matter The ability level ! Read More