Music Lessons in Seat Pleasant, MD

Instruments: Piano

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 18 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students until now. As a private piano instructor for the last 18 years I have gained valuable insight into the ways in which music can be taught to enrich the lives of people. I am confident teaching at all skill levels, from beginners to advanced. I try to approach students needs individually. Read More

Instruments: Voice Music

My teaching style really depends on the student! Some want to learn for fun, others are studying for exams or college. As a result its really important for me to tailor my lessons towards each student and what they would like to work on. For some that could mean working on vocal technique, others working on music and repertoire. Im adept at adapting to each students individual talents and vocal needs and therefore its important that for that each student progresses at a pace that they are comfortable with. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

In the first lesson, I assess the student's current ability and also discuss the student's personal goals and interests in music. Based on this information, I create a daily fundamentals routine for the student to use to improve the basic building blocks of playing a musical instrument. I also allow students to bring in music that interests them from solo material and pieces of music from band class. Approximately half of the weekly lesson is spent on fundamental materials that I assign weekly, and the other half is spent on the student's chosen material. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I find that as useful as many of the methods that I have found most useful for my own performance are, almost every one of my students in drums, percussion and cello requires a different blend of study materials. As a general rule, I rely on providing a balance of classic (some teachers go as far as to say 'canonical') books, and a wide variety of unique listening and independence exercises I've developed over the years. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

My teaching approach focuses on fundamentals of technique, grooves, taste, and good timekeeping. I am interested in a student becoming a good listener and being able to play a variety of musical styles. I integrate rudiments, reading, drum fills, solo ideas, improvisation, and developing a unique style. I use a variety of methods, including skills I heard as a pro drummer on stage in the studio. I make use of books and other lessons depending on the ability level of the student , but I rely on classics like "Stick Control," "Syncopation" and "Accents and Rebounds". Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

I have been playing guitar and singing for 20 years. I have formal guitar training from John Jennings (of Mary Chapin Carpenter) and Tom Giata (One Life to Live, All My Children, etc.). I also have had formal vocal training from Matt Kramer (Saigon Kick). I am certified to teack Piano, Guitar and Voice beginner and intermediate levels. Read More