Music Lessons in Sully Station, VA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet Music

I grew up in the Washington DC area playing Clarinet, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, and Baritone Sax. I attended Walt Whitman High School and was a member of its award winning Jazz Ensemble as a Tenor Saxophonist. In 2003 I was selected as the lead Alto Saxophonist for the Maryland All-State Jazz Ensemble. I went on to study Jazz at Emory University in Atlanta under Gary Motley and E.J. Hughes. 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: Piano Organ

The foundation of my teaching is based on listening, which sounds simple. But, it's not always easy! The awareness needed to listen mindfully will set the foundation to enable students to make informed musical decisions on their own. Additionally, practicing is an art form in and of itself, and it's much more than playing pieces over and over again. Practicing efficiently requires listening, of course, and problems solving skills. In addition to presenting the fundamental skills of music making, I address the aspects needed to make informed decisions. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginner students who are children 3-5, I focus on training their ears. I do lots of "piano key finding game' for them to know the right sound & keys. For age 5-7 I focus on training sight reading skill and fingering skills as well as listening training. For students who have 3-5 year experience, I teach how to express music and how to put their emotions to their performance using piano skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I began teaching private lessons 9 yeras ago when some neighborhood friends encouraged me to share my love of music through teaching. Encouraging regular, consistent practice and keeping a journal of areas of focus during practice is one of the techniques I encourage for students of all ages to progress and grow in their enjoyment of the instrument. I love encouraging students to compose their own material, and to share their music in competitions and recitals, as a way to develop their passion for music and to stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Recorder

I see it as a great honor and serious responsibility to be able to teach music. Based on my own experience, the connection between the teacher and student is one of the most important factors in developing a student's passion for music, and encouraging them to progress. While my teaching approach varies with each individual, all students should feel supported and encouraged to be expressive players and thoughtful musicians. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For the youngest students, I begin with Music for Little Mozarts or John Thompson method books and a lot of music related games. Flash cards assist with retention of musical terms and notes. I also provide worksheets to help reinforce what the students learn. Later I add exercises to help with rhythm and agility. Older students I begin with John Thompson method books or Bastien method books, theory books, and exercises. Read More