Music Lessons in Smithsburg, DC

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

For beginning students who are children, I usually like to start with either the Essential Elements books or the Rubank Elementary book. Once the student has learned the basics, they will be able to work on solos as well as focusing on developing technique, accurate rhythm and tone. For adults, I like to have an idea of their goals and what they are hoping to take out of their lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Harmonica Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Even though the students often wanted to give up and many times gave up, I would not give up on the student, and would continue to not only try to make a valuable learning experience, but an enjoyable one that they would remember forever. Once I began to teach private lessons, I kept the same mindset. If the student is having a bad day and not soaking in as much information, I would make sure that there was something new they could perform to ensure they felt some sort of progress and enjoyed their time, whether is was a piece with a new note, or a new fingering or technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

The most satisfying moment as a teacher is when a student finally "gets it", and for students, I find that lessons are the most fun when the student feels capable and not overwhelmed. I like to challenge my students and encourage them to exceed even their own expectations of their abilities. With this in mind, my overall teaching philosophy emphasizes gaining technical mastery over the student's chosen instrument, strong music reading and theory skills, along with creativity and improvisation to turn them into well rounded players who can hold their own in just about any music setting from the stage to the studio. Read More

Instruments: Violin

My teaching experience began while attending graduate school 30 years ago. I have been teaching consistently in my home studio and with the Liya Foundation Summer Music Camp for the past 6 years. At the Liya Summer Camp, I conduct private lessons, sectionals, and assist with orchestra rehearsals. I am a patient, fun loving violin instructor who believes in stretching a student's growth. I emphasize disciplined, consistent practice to improve skills but do not expect perfection. In my opinion, no one ever completely masters the violin. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teach style varies based on the need of the student. I have students that are serious so I would create a syllabus that consist of taking exams or perform in recitals. My other students who just want to have fun with piano, I teach them little pop songs. My method is based on what the student desire. I want my students to enjoy playing the piano. I want them to learn how to play so they can express themselves. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My first experience as a teacher came as a sophomore and junior in high school. I was involved with a program where high school students would work with elementary school band students once a week, and help them work on their band program music and develop their musicality. I found the experience to be extremely rewarding, and have maintained that interest in teaching. I spent time in college working as a music theory tutor for beginning music students, and in graduate school worked to develop and implement lesson plans for beginning clarinetists. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Over my years of teaching, I have learned that music is such an incredible outlet for my students to express themselves. Especially for younger students, it gives them a way to show their emotions when words are not enough. I enjoy watching my students grow as musicians and learn to articulate different concepts with confidence. Perhaps most special is watching a student's personal confidence grow as they learn a new skill that makes them feel special. Read More