Music Lessons in South Riding, VA

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I want my students to discover their own voice on the drums, to find their own rhythms and express themselves authentically. Technical proficiency is important, of course, but it's only one part of the equation. I believe in nurturing a love of music that goes hand-in-hand with technical skills. By encouraging exploration and experimentation, I help my students tap into their creativity and discover the therapeutic power of drumming. It's about finding joy in the process, building confidence, and using the drums as a means of self-discovery. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My approach to teaching is that the student should be having a good time playing. There are so many different pieces of music out there, students can play a great variety of works at all different skill levels, and still be able to develop their intonation, articulation, and fingering accuracy. I will make sure students are working on pieces challenging enough so that they get something out of playing it, but not so challenging they are discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Positive. No gimmicks, no shortcuts. I get the student to think for himself. In a sense we are ALL "self-taught players." My job is primarily correcting bad habits and introducing new material and techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

I always encourage students to study and practice on a regular basis. This greatly helps them make progress and like the instrument over time. Nonetheless, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. My homework sheets are designed to address both of those points. I always encourage them to practice well; when they practice well, they improved and once they improve they start to like the instrument more. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I graduated from Towson University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Performance, earning the music department's Outstanding Achievement in Music Award in 1991. From 1994-1997 I taught applied and ensemble percussion at Shepherd University and, since then, have developed a successful private teaching practice in the Baltimore/Washington area. Many of my students have achieved success at the county, state and professional levels. I am the principal drummer/percussionist at Toby's Dinner Theater in Columbia, MD and perform regularly with the DMV's premier event/party band Retrospect. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I grew up on Long Island New York and am currently finsihing up my music education degree at George Mason University. I have been playing flute for 13 years now and it's time I share my experience and love for music with others!To me, music is an outlet and it's important that my students fall in love with music while also learning about it. Music has always been a driving force in my life and one of the greatest things I've been involved in. Read More

Instruments: Piano

It is my goal to ensure that students always have fun during lessons, and learn that making mistakes and growing from them is an important and rewarding part of learning a musical instrument. For beginning students between the ages of 3-14, I typically use Faber's Piano Adventures method book series. These books offer a well rounded introduction to music theory and performance, while also including fun and exciting songs that students can play over and over again. Read More