Piano Lessons in Benson, MD

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

My professional experience includes teaching Piano to dozens of students of all levels and ages, teaching skills that range from basic scales to classical sonatas to modern jazz, teaching students to read sheet music, playing by ear. Over the course of my career thus far, I have learned that compassion, communication, and encouragement are just as essential to imparting musical knowledge as technical skill. I also have experience teaching Music appreciation classes, Music Theory, and Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For children under the age of 6, I start with Music for Little Mozart, which is a fantastic introduction to music and piano playing. For children older than 6, I generally start with Bastion's Piano Basics because the music is very engaging and the music gradually increases in difficulty. I also add in music outside the method book in order to provide music that interest them and to focus on specific challenges. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Music Keyboard

The goal is to supply students with the tools and the knowledge to be successful and also to facilitate an environment of growth. As we progress through lessons, I will challenge students with weekly and even monthly goals. I've realized every student has a different way of learning, and the methods will cater to the individual. For instance, students who learned mostly by ear can learn about theory. We can begin by identifying whether a scale is major or minor, but first we need to know that major generally sounds brighter/happy and minor usually sounds darker/sad. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Recorder Oboe English Horn

I firmly believe that everyone can learn to play music well. Natural talent exists but if you have the passion and desire then you can achieve anything! I plan the lessons around the individual student and their needs and focus on keeping the students eager and positive by emphasizing strengths and finding solutions for improving areas of difficulty. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Dialogue! Our lessons are based on our communication. We will, together, set realistic goals and expectations. I encourage and motivate students through positive affirmations and acknowledging your achievements. I am also aware of difficulties and will help you through those. As a music therapist, I have additional/advanced skills to be aware of your feelings and work through your experiences. I am able to adapt to your learning style. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Bass Guitar Organ Music Keyboard

My approach actively tries to preserve and cultivate the original passions of music that lead students to seek lessons in the first place. The material we focus on (which also serves as the vehicle for learning about music-in-general) will be determined foremost by the students' interests. Students who are especially conducive or committed to book-learning and linear structure will be accommodated as well, and we will be largely centering Mark Levine's model. 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