Piano Lessons in Riva, MD

Instruments: Piano Voice

I began teaching a few beginner-level students during my first few years of college, and I have taught at the Bach to Rock music schools, and found that I enjoyed building new musicians. I like to emphasize the benefits of consistent, focused practice, especially to my beginner students, as well as the importance of proper warm-up activities. While I believe that music students should learn what they can of the vast and beautiful classical repertoire, it is also important that they are given the opportunity to learn songs and pieces that are important or interesting to them. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginners, I usually start with John Thompson's Easiest Piano Course. Then, I progress onto Dozen a Day, and finally Hanon and Czerny. For the advanced students, I start right from Hanon and Czerny, and go onto Burgmuller. If there is time, I will add on Rebikov for hand separation practice. Repertoire is often chosen based on the student's ability at the time. I will most likely start with repertoire from Easy Classics to Modern, and later add on repertoire that matches the student's style (such as jazz or R&B). Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn

My professional experience includes trumpet with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra, the Baltimore Chamber Orchestra, and the Fabulous Fifties Big Band. My professional teaching experience started in 1986 with teaching students one-on-one. My students have achieved lifelong skills on piano, brass, woodwind, and guitar. I teach in my studio and I travel to family homes. I teach classical, jazz, and gospel music styles. Combining instruction with performance and additional auditions will compliment any student's music experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I primarily use the Faber and Alfred materials for instruction Method of instruction is tailored for each student Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Double Bass Piccolo Oboe Bassoon Music Keyboard

The recording of each lesson gives students something to look forward to at the end of our session. Whether they think that they've done really poorly or extremely well, I encourage them to listen to themselves critically and prepare to share genuine feedback. Then we discuss both their strengths and the areas of opportunity for growth. This practice helps students progress over time. Eventually, they become more expressive, creative, confident, engaged and excited about learning and sharing their talents with others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

I began teaching in 2000. I was very fortunate to have had very qualified teachers throughout my career. When I was in college, I asked my professor, "How do you teach?" And his response was, "Teach as you have been taught." My teachers have included Donald Sutherland, Dame Gillian Weir, David Higgs, Corey McVicar, Carol Prochazka, and more. A few of my teachers trace their lineage from Leon Fleisher, to Schnabel, to Leschetizky, to Czerny, and finally to Beethoven! Read More

Instruments: Piano

My Teaching Methods For young beginners, I typically use the Alfred or Faber method books to build a strong foundation in note reading, rhythm, technique, and musical expression. As students gain confidence and a solid grasp of the fundamentals, I begin introducing solo repertoire suitable for their first recital performance. I particularly enjoy using the Keith Snell series across all levels, as these books feature original piano compositions rather than simplified arrangements. Read More