Michael D
5.0
(2)
Instruments: Trumpet, French Horn
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Marching Band
5.0
(2)
Michael D
5.0
(2)
Instruments: Trumpet, French Horn
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Marching Band
Where I Teach:
In Your Home
My Studio
Online
Ages Taught: 7-80
ABOUT
Degrees / Training / Special Info:
Bachelor of Music, Long Island University, Brookville, NY
Overview:
I am an teacher, composer, and arranger from Long Island, New York. I received my Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from LIU Post (Long Island University). At LIU Post, I studied composition and orchestration with renowned educational composer Carl Strommen, trumpet with Brad Siroky, and conducting with Dr. James McRoy.
I have over 10 years of teaching experience. I have taught beginning 5th grade beginning band, middle school band, and high school band. and jazz band in both public and private schools! I have also worked with students with special needs both in school and privately.
Now, I live in central Florida with my wife, Jenn, and our rescue doggo, Bailey.
Due to the current global health pandemic, I am offering online lessons, with the intention of transitioning back into in-person lessons once it's safe to do so. I'm looking forward to working with you, and feel free to ask me any questions you may have!
*** Specialties ***
Trumpet - Beginner to Advanced
French Horn - Beginner to Intermediate
Music Composition - Beginner to Advanced
Arranging - Beginner to Advanced
Orchestration - Beginner to Advanced
Music Theory - Beginner to Advanced
Ear Training - Beginner to Advanced
EXPERIENCE
I have over 10 years of teaching experience! I started teaching private music lessons during my senior year of high school once I had decided I wanted to go to college to become a music teacher. Since then, I have had the privilege of working with students of all ages - from as young as six to as young as sixty! I've worked with students privately on trumpet, french horn, alto saxophone, clarinet, and piano.
I have directed bands, orchestras, and jazz bands for grades 5-12, and I have a ton of experience preparing students for concerts, festivals, and solo competitions!
METHODS USED
For beginning band/instrumental students, I normally begin with the Accent on Achievement Method Book 1. If you go into any music store, there are hundreds of options for method books. The reason I like the Accent of Achievement method book series is because it is not intimidating for kids to look at as beginners. The books have a great aesthetic, and I agree with the series' approach to introducing a new instrument. I even used the books for myself when I was learning how to play other instruments in college!
Some books can look overwhelming for kids who are just beginning. For beginning piano students, I typically start with John W. Schuam's Piano Course: Pre-A (AKA "The Green Book) and John Thompson's "Note Speller" (AKA "The Red Book"). I do ask for all of my students to have a small manuscript book as well for notes and other fun exercises. All of these items are fairly inexpensive and can be purchased on Amazon or at any local music shop/retailer.
LESSON STYLE
The main reason I became a music teacher is because I love seeing a student improve over the weeks, months, and years. Learning a new instrument, no matter at what age level you start, is a real challenge. It can absolutely become frustrating for even the most eager and ambitious learners at times. I think positive reinforcement with students at all age levels is an absolute must.
One thing I think is important is being able to realize is that everyone makes mistakes. Students sometimes feel if they make a mistake or sound "bad," that means they're doing a bad job. I really believe I help my kids work hard to overcome their fears of making mistakes, and instead working on learning from those mistakes. It helps the kids build their overall confidence and self-esteem, while at the same time, benefiting from learning a new instrument!
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
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RATING & REVIEW
Carol Bendo
Playing an instrument was a bucket list thing for me. I’m so glad that Michael and I crossed paths and he’s my trumpet teacher. I’ve had nothing but success and total fun learning the trumpet. I highly recommend Michael. He is very patient and a wonderful musician. Thanks for your great teaching!
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