Trombone Lessons in Little Elm, TX

Instruments: Guitar Trombone Drums Orchestral Percussion Djembe

For students who are young with no musical background I start with the Essential Elements series. At the next stage, I challenge the student based on their interests. I tend to push students to learn jazz, as its the basis for all drum set playing, but know that most kids are more interested in other more modern styles and accommodate them accordingly. I have a number of books that I can draw from, including Jim Chapin's jazz book, Syncopation, New Breed, Buddy Rich's book, and many more.. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

I begin the first lesson with each student by listening to their goals. All of my students are individuals with different experiences and therefore, I tailor our lesson material to each students needs. In my lessons, I set my students up for success in their practice sessions. I expect that all of my students will practice outside of their lessons, and I work on making sure students will not have questions on how to practice their material. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium Tuba

I know that most of my young students are in their school's band program, so I use a combination of whatever method books they use there plus my own supplemental materials I have found to be effective over years of teaching. If students are preparing for events like All-Region/All-District auditions or a Solo Festival, I spend plenty of time helping them with that. For other students, I have several books of progressive etudes, includes Bordner's Books of Practical Studies and Sparke's Skilful Studies. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Bass Guitar Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

After that I received a bachelors degree in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas and then a masters degree in trumpet performance from the University of Texas at Arlington. I keep a busy schedule as a freelance musician and perform regularly with the Dallas Jazz Orchestra. I also do the occasional the tour with different groups. One of the highlights of my career so far has been headlining with The Polyphonic Spree at the Marvin Festival in Mexico City in 2016! Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone

Sound is the most important aspect of trumpet playing, and the good thing is you can practice pretty much anything and still focus on your sound. For beginners I usually supplement their beginner band book with some simple drills from Schlossberg's Daily Drills or some I wrote myself. The Clarke's Technical Studies and Arban's Complete Conservatory Method are great books as well that I use with most of my intermediate/advanced students. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium Tuba

Although each student learns at a different pace and of course has a different personality, one of my favorite things about teaching is seeing their faces light up when they are able to accomplish something they've been working towards. Within teaching lessons, in my experience, has a lot to do with trust. Trust that I am leading the student towards the right direction and me trusting that they are putting the necessary work in to get to that level. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Euphonium French Horn Tuba Oboe

I have been a music educator in the public schools for over 40 years having taught in Austin, Texas and currently in Fort Worth, Texas. Many of my students have gone to play their instruments in college bands throughout the state. Several former students are currently teaching music at the secondary and college level. I do not approach my teaching to focus on a student's future as a musician. All make individual choices on musical endeavors. Read More