Piano Lessons District of Columbia

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, Keyboard

For beginner's it's always good to start with the basic method books such as Hal Leonard or Alfred. As they progress, they can work on more technical exercises and music theory. Once they are able to grasp the fundamentals, or if they are starting at a more advanced level, it is always good to play a repertoire that includes music that the student is interested in. While some music that I feel is appropriate will be assigned as well, I encourage students to also seek out songs that they want to play themselves in order to keep them interested. Read More

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

There is certain flexibility that is tailored towards the student's choice of music he or she would like to learn. I also provide students the opportunity to learn songs of their choice. This can include reading guitar tabs, chord charts, lead charts, and still, sheet music. It is really up to the student, for I am able to teach one or all of these methods of learning songs. I have had students learn a vast array of styles, including Bruno Mars, Maroon 5, Ed Sheerin, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, Outkast, Macklemore, Bob Marley, Jonie Mitchell, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Rascall Flatts, Earl Scruggs, Olde Crowe Medicine Show, Nirvana, Elliot Smith, Led Zeppelin, Lauryn Hill, Amy Winehouse, The Beatles, just to name a few. 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

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