Piano Lessons District of Columbia

Instruments: Piano, Keyboard

Some of my earliest performance experience has involved playing at recitals, churches, events, parties, and other functions in DC as part of a band or as a solo performer. After moving to NYC to study music in college, I pursued various demanding music-related courses such as Music Theory, Jazz Theory, Aural Comprehension, Music Publishing, as well as regular private lessons on piano/composition. Additionally, I have performed at venues in Lower Manhattan as part of a jazz duo group such as the Bitter End, Pianos, and Sidewalk Cafe and have composed a number of scores for original student films NYU Tisch. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Clarinet

It is very important that each student is comfortable with their playing ability and progression. I like to set realistic goals when it comes to performing and practicing. No matter the level and ability I always encourage that a student is excited and determined about their progress. It makes a big difference with the teacher and student. Creating that bond with the student is very beneficial. It is my duty to have students leaving inspired, confident and excited! Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Drums, Synthesizer, Banjo, Ukulele, Mallet Percussion, Orchestral Percussion, Conga, Latin Percussion, Music, Keyboard, Djembe

During his time in school, Mike performed in a number of different groups. He has played in situations as varied as Orchestra, Big-band, African Drum Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Combo Jazz Groups, Gamelan Orchestra, Afro-Cuban Ensembles, and Mallet Ensembles. He also performed in freelance rock, jazz, jam, and improvisational groups. Mike began playing at age 7 on both piano and drums and started performing at age 14. Later he studied voice in college and picked up the banjo as another instrument to have in his repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Bass Guitar, Electric Guitar, Classical Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

Even my beginner students have been able to compose their own tunes using a few simple chords and some basics in rhythm and meter that I have taught them. Moreover, it is their idea for lyrical content and the mood of the song that really pushes their learning into an accelerated pace. From what I have observed in my students, songwriting, which includes singing, playing, and keeping time seems to be the most enjoyable, immersive, and rewarding avenue of learning music. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Trumpet

My master's degree in trumpet performance at the University of Denver included a teaching assistantship: I taught trumpet lessons, coached brass quintets, trumpet ensembles, and more. I had a private studio in Denver and again in Cleveland, where I was before relocating to DC. In Cleveland I taught full-time and ended up with over fifty private students. My students there received such honors as entrance into the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra and Youth Wind Symphonies. Read More