Piano Lessons in Clifton, VA

Instruments: Piano

My love and passion for music extends even further into my love for teaching music to kids and adults of all ages and abilities. I am a recent graduate from Shepherd University, with a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano performance, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. I have had the opportunity to perform in a number of different settings, including as the pianist in the Shepherd University Community Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Combo, and Piano Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I consider myself to be both traditional and old school at certain times, however. I firmly believe that students will lose interest in music quickly if I always teach all students the same techniques and follow conventional music theory. For piano lessons I usually begin without any books until they are comfortable with the weight and the feel of the piano keys. After that I really like to use the John Thompson's piano book grade 1, and I have had many good results with my students in the past. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar

I truly believe music should be a fun and rewarding experience. It brings me great joy seeing my students progress in their musical abilities. I encourage students to explore their talents and discover what it is they love about their instrument. If students wants to compose and write music I encourage and help them. If students have a recital or a performance coming up, we will take time to fully prepare for the gig, wether it is a talent show or competition. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching experience started after college, teaching a family friend bass guitar. From there I realized I could just as well teach guitar, piano, and saxophone as well. I find it rewarding to watch people grow and learn skills they can use the rest of their life, enriching their life with the expression of music. From taking private lessons of my own on saxophone and guitar throughout high school and college, I've learned that consistency of practice is key! Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I find that as useful as many of the methods that I have found most useful for my own performance are, almost every one of my students in drums, percussion and cello requires a different blend of study materials. As a general rule, I rely on providing a balance of classic (some teachers go as far as to say 'canonical') books, and a wide variety of unique listening and independence exercises I've developed over the years. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

Beginner Adult cellists:  I give adults the option of starting off in Essential Elements or moving at a faster pace with the Suzuki books.  After learning the fundamentals of playing, I then tailor the lessons to the students individual needs or tastes. Beginner children pianists:  I like using the Piano Adventures series with this group.  I usually start with the Primer book before Book 1.  For children in the 4 to 5 age group, I start off with the Pre-Reading books A thru C. Read More

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

During his time in school, Mike performed in a number of different groups. He has played in situations as varied as Orchestra, Big-band, African Drum Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Combo Jazz Groups, Gamelan Orchestra, Afro-Cuban Ensembles, and Mallet Ensembles. He also performed in freelance rock, jazz, jam, and improvisational groups. Mike began playing at age 7 on both piano and drums and started performing at age 14. Later he studied voice in college and picked up the banjo as another instrument to have in his repertoire. Read More