Piano Lessons in Hampstead, MD

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Djembe

My approach to teaching is based on a large amount of communication between the students, the parents, and I. I love to know what my students are thinking in order to enhance what they are looking for in musicianship. I believe that musicians should be allowed to play and learn freely, however, the foundation given by learning jazz theory, gives any musicianship a bigger dynamic of playing for whatever genre they specifically like to play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

I have been teaching students private voice and piano for 6 years. Encouraging a consistent schedule is one of the key points that I like to emphasize for younger and new students. This will help students progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've found that a combination of different genre's, such as classical and modern day music, can help students enjoy the piano/voice and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Clarinet

I find that the most important thing about teaching, especially teaching music, is finding what your students are interested in and getting to know them on a personal level. As a teacher, I have to learn about the unique learning styles my students have, their individual needs, and their goals and dreams as a musician in order to best teach them. Praising accomplishments and encouraging public performances is also very important as a teacher, as for the student, that positive feedback will drive them towards more success in the future. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Mandolin

I began my training in piano and guitar when I was 7 years old. My interest in music has led me to continue to learn other instruments. I have 7 children and have taught and continue to teach them various instruments in my home. This has allowed us to perform musically as a family in various parts of the country. My oldest daughter has gone on to acquire a degree in vocal performance. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For piano, I like the Piano Adventures Method by Faber but have also used Alfred and Bastien. I am very focused on a relaxed and precise technique, including proper rotation, articulation, flexibility, and strength, as well as teaching the ability to play without looking at the keys. For voice, I work to build a solid technique based on individual need and interest and choose songs accordingly. Proper breathing and body awareness, utilizing Alexander and Feldenkrais methods, as well as understanding of vowel and consonant articulation and of the intimate relationship between text and music is also essential. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

Michael has over 8 years of experience teaching students from age 6 through adult, from directing large ensembles (70+) to private lessons. He specializes in teaching singing, but also has taught beginning guitar and piano lessons, composition, music theory and history, and digital recording. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with John W. Shaum piano course. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More