Mackenzie F  
Instruments: Piano, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B, Musical Theater, Latin, Funk, Hip Hop, Electronic, Salsa, Reggae, Latin Jazz, Swing, Samba, Bossa Nova, Soul, Marching Band, Punk, Avant-garde

I've been teaching lessons since I was in high school and younger students would ask for me for help with their playing. I love sharing my knowledge of music with others as it's something that has brought me a lot of joy in my life. One of the most important points I like to emphasize in my lessons is the importance of making a conscious effort to let go of the fear, anxiety, and physical tension that comes up naturally when most students have to play their instrument. This breakthrough can be extremely influential for students because the fear of sounding bad makes them sound far worse than if they played without that obstacle.

With young beginner students, I start with either the Essential Elements books for wind instruments or the Faber method for piano. After basic musical skills have been developed I'll move on to more interesting solo pieces based on the interests and needs of the students. With adults, I tend to talk to them a little more specifically about what their musical goals and influences are and help them to achieve them in their playing. The most important part of taking lessons will always be to commit to a daily practice routine, free of distracting thoughts. So, I try to teach my students to enjoy a daily practice routine and to conduct it in a way that they are free of tension.