Clarinet Lessons Washington

Instruments: Clarinet, Music

I have taught private clarinet lessons since 2013 and I love being able to share my passion for the clarinet and music with my students. Currently, I am a Master Teacher on the faculty of Magnolia Music Studio RiverWalk. I have also taught at The Ohio State University's Clarinet Academy, teaching private lessons, coaching student chamber ensembles, and presenting a lecture on reed break-in and adjustment. As a Graduate Teaching Associate at The Ohio State University, I taught undergraduate clarinet lessons, gave masterclasses for undergraduate and master's students, instructed the clarinet portion of the Woodwind Methods course for music education majors, conducted clarinet sectionals for the OSU University Band, coached undergraduate chamber ensembles, and assisted with OSU Clarinet Choir rehearsals. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Clarinet

For my younger students I usually start with major and minor scales tied in with simple to challenging etudes. I do not have a specific book that I work out of, though if the student has one that they work out of I would be happy to accommodate. For adults I usually have the same approach, but we will focus more on a specific genre or style that they may want to emulate. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Violin, Cello, Trumpet, Flute, Clarinet, Drums, Ukulele, Mallet Percussion, Orchestral Percussion, Conga, Djembe

While studying primarily with Ben Toth and Tom Kolor, she has worked with a number of other teachers specializing in different areas. This has given her a diverse knowledge in world music knowledge and playing abilities. Notable teachers include Joe Galiota (African drumming), Shane Shanahan (Middle Eastern hand drums), Rogerio Boccato (Brazilian hand drums and samba), and Dave Samuels (Caribbean Jazz). Secondary classical percussion instruction was provided by Al Lepak (timpani), John Bacon (drum set), and Michael Burritt (marimba).Though primarily a percussionist, Melanie is also an active violinist and vocalist. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone, Clarinet

The most painful part of learning a new instrument is the constant failure, screeching, and subpar performance most new musicians experience. My teaching method skips that by teaching students the fundamentals of good tone quality before technical studies. My first lessons focus on breathing, relaxation, posture, and embouchure. Within the first four lessons, most students are able to play beautifully in the low range of their instrument, and can then begin to study more technically-challenging music. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet, Trombone, Clarinet, Drums, Mallet Percussion, Conga, Latin Percussion, Djembe

My teaching style is laid back and technical. I like to go at the pace of the student and really make sure technique is perfect. With good technique you set yourself up for success and develop good habits from the start. I can't tell you how many times I've seen students, even in college, dramatically improve their sound with just a simple posture change. Once technique is handled, the doors to all genres of music are open. Read More