Music Lessons in West Mclean, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

My approach varies depending on the student's skill level and chosen instrument, but for beginners I always try to get them familiarized with their instrument: teaching them the basics of reading music and how to navigate the different keys (or strings, etc.). From there I start teaching various musical concepts, the rudiments of music theory, and begin introducing them to different styles of music. When the student is advanced enough, I start having them run through my own custom designed technique and skill drills, and have them start selecting music that they would like to perform on their own. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

Every student is different, and every student has a different level of ability, interests, etc. I find it's important to be mindful of what each student needs at any given moment in their musical journey. Part of this involves asking vital questions and assessing each student's innate musicality before proceeding with materials. Some kids are very precocious are best suited for materials intended for adult beginners. Sometimes students who are seniors feel very fulfilled by learning fundamental skills with simplified showtune melodies. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The student and I focus on classical fingerstyle techniques as well as all aspects of each piece of classical guitar sheet music. This includes adhering to the pieces' given key and time signatures, dynamics, accents and ultimately executing the given piece of music with precision and distinct feeling. Notable compositions studied include those of Bach, Sor, Tarrega, Carcassi, Guliaini, Carulli as well as pieces composed and arranged for other instruments from Mozart, Pachabel, Tchaicovsky, and more "Some people think music education is a privilege, but I think it is essential to being human."-- Jewel "I think music in itself is healing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Lap Steel Guitar Ukulele Double Bass Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The main thing my years of lesson-giving has taught me is that everyone takes it in a little differently, but everyone needs to practice each and every day! Some work well with tabs, others learn by watching, still others are most comfortable with the formality of traditional notation. All these roads can lead to the goal of making music provided the student is motivated to pick up the instrument regularily. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Music

In addition to performing, my love for music extends into the classroom and private studio as well.  I began teaching individual and group lessons 8 years ago, and I love finding new and exciting ways to expose my students to the latest methods and techniques to better their playing and musicality.  I find that no matter what genre of music my students are interested in learning, consistent exposure to all styles is an invaluable tool in advancing ones abilities.  I am always interested in taking on new students no matter their goals or experience level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

Everything we talk about carries over past the art of playing the trumpet. For example, learning how to be a team player, creativity, and the reward of daily practice teaches the student about success in many different contexts. I do expect my students to practice at least four to five times a week so that lessons are as productive as they can be. I do try to find out what inspires each student, be it types of music or anything in the outside world. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

Currently he not only spends a good deal of time practicing and writing but also learning modern styles of music making such as Logic Pro and Ableton. As a writer, arranger, and performer Mike has recorded and written for 10 albums and played as a freelancer on countless more. His studies have exposed him to Classical music, World music, Jazz, Contemporary styles, Pop, Rock, Bluegrass, Americana, Funk, RB, and Hip Hop. Read More