Piano Lessons in Jarrettsville, MD

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Accordion

In 2007, I graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a Bachelor of Science in Music Education. I was a member of the Penn State Marching Blue Band and have participated in several Alumni Blue Band performances since graduating. I went on to earn my Masters of Music in Music Education from Northwestern University in 2012. I enjoyed teaching music in the public school for ten years. In addition to teaching, I have also been the piano accompanist for both middle and high school choirs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning students, I find that the simpler the methods, the better. Essential Elements is a great series for beginners, and is a good way to teach basic music theory and musical ideas. As students progress, I like to introduce solo repertoire and books that are more specific to the instrument that they are learning. I also like to find out what music the student enjoys listening to, or has a desire to play, and start to add songs in that style to their list of practice pieces. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Organ Conga Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Mark Deffenbaugh is an innovative, and provocative Jazz Artist and Educator. As a keyboardist, composer, and producer he has turned the heads of many of the most talented and famous personalities in Jazz, Rock, Hip Hop, and R&B. Mark started his career early, playing gigs, in the Washington D.C. area, starting at the age of sixteen. Within a few short years he had numerous live and television performances to his credit. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Piccolo Music Keyboard

I have made sure to transfer all of these skills to my private teaching. I am very direct with my students and act as facilitator in lesson discussions, and to try not making decisions for them. I heavily employ the "trial by fire" and "sink or swim" methods, as I've found those the most effective in my lifetime of learning new things. However, I am flexible in going back and reteaching and remodeling, as long as we still keep our "eyes on the prize", whether that be personal rewards, scholastic musical awards, musical career advancement, music therapy approach/feelings, etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Throughout my years of teaching, I've obsereved, everyone learns differetly and at different paces. Knowing this, I try to set practical goals for my students each lesson. I encourage each of them to advance by teaching them certain songs they love, have them listen to more piano music, and take them to piano concerts. By using these methods, I have seen students become inspired and motivated to learn. I believe that piano lessons should not only be educational but fun and exciting as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have been a private instructor for over fifteen years and have brought my students much success in their musical endeavors. I have performed in solo recitals, competitions, chamber ensembles, bands, and orchestras in Florida, Georgia, Missouri, Ohio, and West Virginia. I am also is the recipient of various music scholarships and the winner of several different clarinet competitions. Additionally, my students have received superior ratings at local and state Solo & Ensembles, selected as All-State band members, received top chair placements, and much more! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

While achievement is important to me, I believe that developing long-term skills is a far more significant. I prefer to emphasize skill-building and retention, and always want to make sure the student is enjoying the process. I prefer to set realistic short- and long-term goals for students at each lesson, and acknowledge their accomplishments with a system of rewards. Additionally, at the end of each year, I encourage my students' participation in a studio-wide voluntary recital, which is intended to showcase their growth and development over the course of the year as well as afford them an opportunity to perform in public. Read More