Music Lessons in Southside, NC

Instruments: Trumpet

Even though I received my Masters degree in Trumpet Performance 30 years ago I have remained an active player in classical, big band, musical theater and church settings and enjoy sharing my experience and teaching backgrounds to inspire and motivate trumpet students of all ages. While music is not my vocation I have enjoyed playing and teaching privately as my avocation/hobby for more than 30 years. My wife is a retired elementary school music teacher and both my children are involved in music as well. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Cello Bass Guitar

As I mentioned in my Methods statement, I am more interested in seeing a student become a great musician as opposed to just a great instrumentalist. Emotion and interpretation are a big part of a student's musicality, and I will focus on that as a student progresses. In my own journey I have played a number of different musical styles and all have given me a greater appreciation for music. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Latin Percussion

I begin all students on snare drum. This allows for the proper development of hand technique that is the base of percussion. I teach the original 26 rudiments along with the Breeze Easy method books for beginners, or students that do not read music. With the drum kit I encourage students to become familiar with as many styles of music they can. I use the blending of styles to help mold the student from a drummer to a musician, and help create an individual sound; Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Adults are easier because they have a greater understanding of responsibilty and self control, however children learn these skills over time with propper guidance, and learning how to learn is a big part of my students' training. For all levels and ages, fun is essential. Students are encouraged to explore their preferences in music, and are given choices as they learn music in order to keep them interested and motivated. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I love seeing my students reach their goals (no matter how big or how small). The smile, sense of satisfaction, and confidence that I see in my students as they progress gives me a great sense of humility to be able to work with such great students week after week and many times year after year. From beginners who have never played a note in their life to advanced students who have played for years I enjoy sharing the joy of music with each of them. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Piccolo Oboe English Horn

For beginning students, we will spend a good amount of the first few lessons in developing core fundamentals. Once we have a solid foundation, I will start to add in some exercises. I work out of many books to expose my students to different methods of playing. For more advanced students, I will work with them on developing more characteristic sounds. We will also dive into deeper topics such as tone color, articulation style, and period specific styles. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Synthesizer Electric Violin Fiddle

I believe a good musical day is enjoyed through a well-balanced musical diet! I love to keep the fundamentals in mind with scales and etudes fit for the student's skill level, and leverage those through a performance piece of choice, be it mine or yours (with blessings). If we are working towards a specific piece for a recital or a judge, I will tailor assignments to the piece. I am proficient with music notation software, so customized sheets are absolutely a possibility. Read More