Music Lessons in Raccoon Ford, VA

Instruments: Piano Voice

Learning to play an instrument is an endeavor that does not always yield immediate results. I like to encourage my students to look back on all they have accomplished and to set goals so that they are motivated to keep moving forward. Positive reinforcement and figuring out what gets the student excited are keys to their success. It can be a particular song, activity, or even just a set routine that can make a student really open up and be willing to learn all that they can get their hands on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Clarinet Recorder Music

I am a hard, motivated and outgoing instructor. May 2018 I will be obtaining my degree in Music Media from Norfolk a state University. Currently I am 1st chair clarinet in the wind ensemble and also Tenor sax in jazz band. I was given the opportunity to play bass clarinet and tenor sax in the schools production of “The Color Purple” as well. Music is a way for someone to express themselves where words may not be possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

I customize the curriculum and repertory for each of my students based on their personal goals, which we will discuss in the first lessons. Do you want to play for yourself or to perform publicly? What kinds of repertory appeal to you and how much time do you have to practice? From there we will create a plan that best meets these goals. For beginners, this will include a method book (I often use Faber Piano Adventures for young beginners and Alfred Adult-In-One methods) to get you started. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

In addition, I consider it of paramount importance to coach performers of all levels to “make music” rather than to merely play the notes on the page: Whether the goal be to prepare him or her for solo and ensemble competitions, concert music, jazz studies or the occasional religious service, conveying the significance of everyone’s own personal interpretation of a composition while performing it is what makes music come alive. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo Latin Percussion

My career as a performing artist and educator has led me to travel around the globe gathering indispensable experiences that has helped me grow. I want to share these experiences with my students inspiring them to be a better version of themselves as a human being and as a musician. Coming from the warm Caribbean, I was exposed to all genres of music from pop, salsa, gospel, jazz, classical, etc. making me a fun, charismatic and versatile teacher. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I have taught dozens of piano and voice students of a wide array of ages and abilities all over the DMV for the past three years. Some of my favorite teaching moments have been to see my students achieve their goals, and I help students accomplish them by encouraging a regular practice schedule as well as to have patience. In college and graduate school, I took courses in vocal pedagogy, choral conducting, acting and stage direction in both the opera and musical theater departments, as well as music theory, history, ear training, and diction classes for French, German, Italian, and English. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For the youngest students, I begin with Music for Little Mozarts or John Thompson method books and a lot of music related games. Flash cards assist with retention of musical terms and notes. I also provide worksheets to help reinforce what the students learn. Later I add exercises to help with rhythm and agility. Older students I begin with John Thompson method books or Bastien method books, theory books, and exercises. Read More