Music Lessons in Warrenton, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

I have a lot of experience with curriculum development. My favorite books to teach from include Accent on Achievement, Alfred's Piano Book series and Essential Elements. However I can teach without a book on any instruments and compose assignments as I have done in the past. Even if I am teaching using a book, I usually do a lot of ear training and music theory based assignments that are not found in these books. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Drums Piccolo Acoustic Guitar

I have started my own pedagogy when it comes to teaching drums but it is pretty straightforward. The first lesson is about basic technique and learning the drums and cymbals and then moving into being able to play a simple rock beat. I have done so many trial lessons at this point that I have it down to a science and I have a very good amount of kids who sign up afterwards. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Although I have been trained as a classical singer, I enjoy singing and teaching singing in a variety of genres. I believe the principals and foundation laid in classical training regarding things like breathing, placement and resonance can be transferred to any style of singing. Human beings have been singing since the dawn of their creation. Singing should be an easy, joyful thing. No lesson or teacher should ever take the joy out of the experience. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

For students of all ages I focus on fundamentals by using, The Remington and Arbans books, but for beginners Hal Leonard's Essential Elements is a great start. The fundamentals are never mastered, and the Arbans and Remington methods, are time tested and proven methods for improving on Trombone. I also use the Arnold Jacob's method of Song and Wind. I also think it is important to let students choose their own issues to work on. 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: Piano Drums Keyboard

I typically begin my lessons with a 30 to 45-minute session to introduce music theory and the chosen instrument. For beginner students, I use a combination of the James Bastien and Alfred's Basic methods to teach foundational music theory. Based on the student’s instrument of choice, I supplement these lessons with additional materials tailored to practice and performance. For adult students, I prioritize their interests, adapting my lessons to make the learning experience engaging, enjoyable, and relevant to their musical goals. Read More