Music Lessons in Oceanfront, VA

Instruments: Trumpet

The first opportunity I had to teach someone trumpet was during my junior year of high school. There was a freshman saxophone player who decided to switch to trumpet, so my band director had me teach her. Ever since then, I have been studying different pedagogical techniques for both trumpet and music in general. My belief is that, in order for a student to have the most success, they must set a goal for themselves. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

My methods vary depending on what your concentration will be; Drum set - Orchestral percussion - Mallet percussion Read More

Instruments: Guitar

My main goal right off the bat for my students is to get them playing from the very first lesson, starting with basic chords, and even have them practice a simple riff or lick from a song that they might recognize. In my philosophy, because this is how I was taught, it is important to keep the student interested, having fun, while still learning the things that they may consider "boring." I do this by implementing songs that they may know, or songs that they want to learn, and use that to teach what chords the song is using, what scales it might be using, and from that, have them practice the song and chord or scale accordingly. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Euphonium Tuba

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 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. If the students need help working on a particular work for their school (ex solo ensemble, college audition, drum corps audition, concert band works, jury auditions, etc.) I am willing to help the students be successful. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am a firm believer in having each student learn basic scales, starting with five finger patterns for beginners, since a solid grasp on this technique will aid them in learning any piece. For beginning younger students, I start teaching them from a method book that best suits their learning style. Since each student is different, one method does not fit every student, and I have taught Alfred's Premier Performer, Mayron Cole Piano Method, Hal Leonard, and more. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For beginning students, I usually teach with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books starting with book 1 to book 3. Once they are comfortable, and progression is recognized, I will introduce Suzuki Violin School. Not only do I solely focus on the music, I give students hand and bow exercises they can do during lessons or while just sitting at home watching TV. I also recommend that my students practice in the bathroom while at home because of the natural acoustics it provides. Read More