Music Lessons in Woodstock, MD

Instruments: Piano Voice

As for adult students, it all depends on their level and desires.From 5 to 8 years old, the lesson takes place in a playful way. Easy hand exercises, simple rhythmic patterns, pieces with polyphonic elements. From 8 to 12 in the program there are scales and exercises by L. Ganon, J. Bach, W. Mozart, P. Tchaikovsky, and K. Cherny. Additionally, I include exercises at the intermediate skill level for mastering improvisation, playing with elements of jazz, and playing by ear and we learn popular children's songs. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I use piano adventures for most students starting off. With my more advanced students I use "The Russian School of Piano." Once the student is at an appropriate level, I then take them out of the books completely. At this time, we work on more difficult pieces in different time periods. Most students start playing Bach's music at first. This is to help the technique. Mozart also is introduced during this time, while this music is difficult, the interpretation is simplistic compared to Rachmaninoff. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

Whether in a group or individually, I teach in a relaxed, interactive, and respectful manner, allowing students to progress at their natural rate and using their and my enthusiasm to propel us, rather than any requirement for content or material to be covered.  Lessons become retreats rather than drudgery. As I said above in "Methods", I do not start with books or sheet music. I consider myself a Pied Piper, there to inspire the love of music, love of playing, and love of the many different instruments a drummer and percussionist can play. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My belief is that performed music should be fun for the performer as well as the audience. I will always give my best effort when I teach but students are also required to put in effort if they want to learn and become passionate about music. I encourage my students to have regular practice routines but make sure they are not overwhelmed. When I teach I also like to ask my students questions (such as how much bow do you need for this note? or what is the best approach to make this phrase more expressive with your left-hand?) so that students can learn to come up with solutions by themselves and can feel comfortable practicing without my always being there to guide them. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have an arsenal of books I may work through or recommend for students from beginner to the advanced player. However, my lessons are customized to fit each students needs. The exercises or books I may work from are usually recommended to the student after assessing where they are skill-wise, what their end goal may be, or based on what tools they like that will help them retain the information the best. Read More