Clarinet Lessons West

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Trumpet, Clarinet

I have the goal of helping students look at music the way I do: with passion and inspiration. I encourage students to open their minds and set goals for themselves. For example, I would ask them the question, "By playing music, what do you want to accomplish?" I have asked this question to myself many times throughout my life thus far, and it has worked because I have accomplished so much. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Violin, Viola, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

I love seeing my students grow in their knowledge and appreciation of music! Excellence is rewarding, and I teach the process to get there from whatever level we begin. I use positive reinforcement and notice what the student is doing right. Then, I give critique and an action plan to improve performance. It feels good for the student and teacher when they learn the methods to break down what is currently difficult into smaller pieces so that it is both manageable and possible to go further than they thought. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

While all of my students study the same fundamental musical principles, I believe that every lesson should be as unique as every person. That's why I always create new, customized lesson plans and provide individualized materials for all of my students. In my experience, this approach is most effective at increasing the student's musical ability—and it's a lot more fun! Rather than just going cover to cover through a method book, we'll keep things interesting and fresh by playing music games (especially with younger students), composing our own music, listening to new artists, and working on pieces that are requested by the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

I like to play audio/recordings for the students when possible, so that the student has an idea of the style, or the piece that we are studying.  This gives them something to reference to, but also gives them an aural aspect in their playing/practice habits. I also model for them constantly, so that they get more visual and aural reinforcement.  I sometimes give them short music concept/vocabulary assignments, such as learning the names of the notes on the staff, counting rhythms, meters, etc; all having to do with music theory and musical concepts that can be directly applied to their practical aspect of playing. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone, Clarinet

Rather than the trial and error approach most new musicians go through to find mastery, I teach my students proper technique before diving into songs. This way, students experience fewer setbacks and gain confidence quickly.With experienced students, I focus more on playing with emotion and musicianship, starting with musical elements like dynamics, articulation, and air support. I also encourage practicing slowly with a metronome, allowing the body to learn music without the stress of failure. Read More