Music Lessons in Thalia, VA

Instruments: Trumpet

The first opportunity I had to teach someone trumpet was during my junior year of high school. There was a freshman saxophone player who decided to switch to trumpet, so my band director had me teach her. Ever since then, I have been studying different pedagogical techniques for both trumpet and music in general. My belief is that, in order for a student to have the most success, they must set a goal for themselves. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Each student is different. My teaching style depends on the need of the student. However, generally, I will start with technical exercises to help the student work on a particular skill that can be used in a variety of songs (ex. tone production, vowels, diction). Then the next part of the lesson would be focused on a particular song. I also am happy to work on music theory and music literacy skills with students. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I earned valuable skills while touring and teaching and found a niche while working with kids of which helped create my specialized children's teaching curriculum. Whether it's teaching children or adults, beginning classes start with basic snare rudimentary concepts with Stick Control and a Rudiment Dictionary. We then begin to work the moeller stroke on the kit. Intermiediate and advanced classes focus more on pocket, technique, kit maintenance and tuning, originial concepts, and mic placement. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Helping students achieve their specific goals is very important to me! If they are passionate about a particular style of music, composer, or piece, I will help them reach that goal! I am willing to meet them wherever they are musically. I think it is important for the student to work on a variety of styles and pieces at any given time at their level, so they have a diverse musical palette. Read More

Instruments: Violin

My teaching style is based on the student's skill level. I teach at your pace! Not only do I teach at the student's pace, I have each student construct their own goal calendar to keep in my records as well as the student's home. I like to call it a "music vision board" because to me there are no numerical deadlines on a student's musical progress. I like to find out what inspires a student in order to better my teaching. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Harmonica Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Teaching is a very fulfilling experience as it constantly requires you to examine your own playing and methods so that you can share your knowledge with people. I first discovered how rewarding it was when I started giving lessons after about 5 years of playing guitar. It made me a better guitar player and musician, and also helped me connect with people I never would have in a unique and exciting way. Read More

Instruments: Piano

The bulk of my teaching experience comes from my college days where I taught secondary piano lessons to college undergraduates and children. My teaching style and methods were solidified in my graduate studies at Indiana University where I was an Associate Instructor of Piano. During this time, I taught group piano classes to music and non-music majors, private piano lessons to both graduate and undergraduate students, and worked as a counselor/practice coach for three summers at the prestigious piano summer festival Indiana University Piano Academy. Read More