Music Lessons in Saint Mary S, MD

Instruments: Trumpet

I have taught students trumpet lessons from ages 8 to 18 with great success. Several of my former students have performed in local honor bands and received awards after their time with me. I have a tried and tested methods for success that will work with any trumpet student. I will adapt them the best way possible to fit your student. I always put the needs of my individual students first, and will remain committed regardless. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Guitar Bass Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Everybody learns differently, and everybody has different skill-sets and levels. I also believe most people have different styles. For beginners just picking up a guitar (or bass), I'm more apt to have them refer to some curriculum outside of the lesson session, as opposed to more advanced students, where the discernment on what to use as reference varies with each individual. I'm definitely a fan of hands on learning (obviously with a musical instrument), but with this type of learning the practical application can be harder than a school course for example. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching experience dates back to my college days in Toronto, where I started teaching privately. I started teaching part-time about 5 years ago, and have been consistently teaching since. I am fortunate that I get to work with a lot of young kids, and get to introduce them to the world of music and help them develop their passion early on. Teaching is a great source of energy for me. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

My philosophy in teaching the trumpet is based on the individual needs of the student at their particular stage of development.   I strongly believe in reinforcing the fundamentals of brass playing: Proper breathing, air support, correct embouchure and tongue placement are all crucial elements for the trumpeter to achieve production of a clear and open sound.   Once such sound production has been attained in the lower and mid ranges of the instrument, the capability of the player to produce higher tones increases with proper practice and the help of studies of the overtone series as well as the playing of scales.   Rhythmic and metered playing must also be exercised for the sake of re-enforcing the ability to play in tempo and for rendering unfamiliar rhythm patterns manageable.    Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium

I am originally from Memphis, TN, but I grew up in the small college town of Auburn, AL. I now reside in Northern Virginia and am a Trombone Instrumentalist in the Quantico Marine Corps Band. In the band, I perform regularly in military ceremonies, as well as concert bands, brass bands, and brass quintets. Before joining the Marine Corps, I studied with Dr. Matthew Wood of Auburn University. After my completion of Marine Corps Recruit Training and Marine Combat Training, I attended the Marine Detachment Naval School of Music. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I have been teaching since my undergrad years starting in 2001 as adjunct faculty at Walnut Ridge Elementary School until 2004. Since then I have taught privately at students homes part time. I believe that weekly lessons are the most beneficial for a students learning and productivity. I also believe that a combination of encouragement, praise, and level appropriate music, be it classical, method books, or popular music are imperative for success in learning music and enjoying it. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginner students who have never held an instrument or don't know anything about music we'll go over basic guitar fundamentals we'll talk about different types of guitars, how to hold the guitar in classical and folk style positions, how to press your fingers on the strings (because there is a way), body parts of the guitar, basic music concepts such as beat and rhythm, how to read music both standard and tabs, basic guitar exercises, and a few fun songs once the fundamentals have been practiced enough. Read More