Music Lessons in Paris, VA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning students, I ask if they are using a specific book in their school program, and will work with that. Otherwise, I will start with the beginning Rubank method book, and move through books containing etudes and exercises of increasing difficulty. These may include folk/popular tunes and lighter classical repertoire. I believe that ensuring that the student enjoys playing is the single most important aspect to learning an instrument. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I think it is true that teachers often learn as much as students do. I always find myself reflecting throughout the week on lessons that I taught, and considering ways in which I can better interact with and tailor my instruction toward each individual student. My most important duty as a teacher is to help students connect with and enjoy the music, so I make a point of identifying any patterns and points of interest, and encourage them to express themselves freely while respecting the composers' intentions. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Each student is VERY different. Their pacing will be different, their level of experience will be different, the genres that they want to learn will be different, etc. Because of this, my teaching style will vary for each specific student. For my students first lesson, I will get to know them as a person and understand how they learn. I will also ask them to prepare a song of their choice for me to listen to. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I have been playing professionally for the past 33 years in different musical situations from Jazz Festivals, Broadway Musicals, Session Recordings, as a Show band Musician on Ships etc...And have taught numerous students who have gone on to various fields of musical endeavor.I also released my debut cd in 2011 "The Long Road Taken" with my own group the RDP Project which is available in Itunes, CDBaby and 10 other digital distribution sites. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I know that performance is an important part of learning an instrument so I offer bi-annual recitals as well as an opportunity to play at an annual festival for adjudication and to enter in competitions for cash awards and scholarships. I also believe that no student is too old to learn music! You can learn at any age, I am always looking to take on new students and share with them my love of music! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching experience began during college, roughly four years ago, while teaching several private students during a summer break. While studying music in college, I received training in topics such as keyboard pedagogy, keyboard literature, collaborative piano, improvisation, music theory, and musicianship (aural skills). I worked as a Music Theory/Musicianship Grader and Tutor for several years, and I assisted in some group piano classes. For the past three years, I have spent a lot of time working as a collaborative pianist for vocalists and instrumentalists, performing in juries, recitals, and other student evaluations. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Typically I start with Hal Leonard or Alfred's beginner books. Once the students grasp the fundamentals I add in theory, scales, and some fun stuff that they are interested as well. When the student is engaged and interested, they are more likely to continue and practice. It is not possible for every part to be fun and games, however, even the most fundamental learning can be engaging! If I find a particular pedagogy isn't working well for the student, we can change course and find something that works better for them. Read More