Music Lessons in Sherwood Forest, MD

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

I have been teaching since 1977, and I am as passionate about teaching as I was on my first day! I have taught students of all ages and levels, and learned to customize lessons to fit their stated musical goals. A number of my former students now work in the music field, from music instructors at Towson State University to local freelance musicians. I currently hold the rank if Sergeant in the Maryland Defense Force Band, serving as a percussionist/drummer. Read More

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

I don't take a one-size-fits-all-approach to my students. Children and adults have different needs. Even among children, the needs of a young child vary greatly from those of a teenager. I will use method books where appropriate, particularly with young children, but I've found that a more creative approach tends to lead to students having more fun, accomplishing more in the long run, and developing positive associations with learning a musical instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Keyboard

I combine high expectations with patience and friendly encouragement. Students will rise to excellence, often because they do not know how difficult something is. I focus a great deal on muscle memory, and encourage that new pieces be learned initially at a slow tempo, and hands separately. This enables the mind and body to learn and retain at the same time. Also, since one hand is always dominant, this allows the weaker hand to grow and learn independence. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

A good technical foundation is the hallmark of musical performance, appreciation and motivation. I believe the student witnessing their own progress develop serves a greater motivation than any empty words a teacher can say. Their own satisfaction prompts them to practice more, fed by the very spark of musical desire they possess within them. Practicing is not fun, but playing music is. To be able to pick up new music and play it on the spot are the moments of vindication that makes the student realize their efforts have truly been worth it. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Keyboard

I have loved music ever since childhood. I come from a musical performance family and have been blessed with the ability to play various instruments as well as sing. During my teen years I performed in a singing group that was the opening act for many major recording artist of the day. I also began doing session work in the studio performing on guitar, keyboards and vocals; ultimately I learned to work 'behind the scenes' alongside the engineers and learning about music production. Read More

Instruments: Ukulele

With a beginner student, I start with the basics. We learn how to properly hold the instrument and how to tune the strings. From there, the students will learn the fundamentals of finger placement and basic strumming. Once the student feels comfortable, we start to learn different chords and scales. At this point, students will begin learning songs with basic chords. Once we get past this stage the lessons become more tailored to the individual student and we begin to learn and play music that the student is interested in. Read More