Music Lessons in West Bethesda, MD

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Djembe

I will also use many Jazz and Latin Standards to apply the theoretical patterns learned. Artist included will be Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Pat Methany, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and Sonny Rollins. I also communicate with my students as well to see specifically what they would like to learn/understand more of. Also, for my piano students we will be use the "Hanon Complete" book to work on speed and strength. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I believe learning an instrument is a very personalized process, and tailor the materials I use to the skill level and personal goals of each student. For brand new beginners, I typically start with the first Suzuki Flute book, Trevor Wye Beginning book for the Flute, and depending on the individual may begin with some of my own exercises that I write out for the student. For more intermediate to advanced students, I typically like to work out of the Selected Studies and Advanced Rubank books, as some of the more commonly asked audition excerpts for County/State Band typically come from these books. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

It is very important to me for students to have fun in lessons. That's my number one priority! Students who are enjoying playing their instrument are more likely to stick with it. My passion for music shines through in private lessons when I focus all of my energy on the one student. Watching the student grow and succeed is one of the greatest things about teaching. I am able to figure out what a student likes very quickly and use that to connect with them. 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

Instruments: Voice

Nothing is more rewarding than witnessing my students learn at their own pace, lessons are not to be rushed and homework is not to be treated carelessly. Understanding and being able to interpret the history of a piece is just as important and learning it, how are you to convince an audience without knowing it for yourself? I encourage this by setting realistic and well obtainable goals. Recognition for accomplishments is definitely a helping tool as well as fuel for progress of vocal abilities. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone

I began playing trumpet at a very young age, and have found it, and music in general, to be the most valuable means of communication available to us. I graduated from University of Maryland School of Music December 2014, and have played in a number of bands (both jazz and classical), taught private lessons, and worked as a festival clinician for local schools. I feel that private lessons provide an environment where both student and teacher may learn from each other, and where that knowledge is imparted in a friendly environment at a pace that is comfortable for both of us. Read More