Trombone Lessons in Saratoga, CA

Instruments: Trombone

I tailor each lesson program specifically to the student. I have a large number of method and etude books ranging from the Essential Elements for beginners, all the way to the Boutry Advanced Studies. Solo literature also plays an important role, as recitals will be a part of the teaching program. For older and more advanced students, I will find literature that will provide a suitable challenge. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

I encourage trombone mouthpiece exercises and long tones at the beginning of my lessons as proper embouchure flexibility is important to practicing and playing better. Breathing is another aspect that I look at and always breathe by expanding the diaphragm. I use the essential elements series for trombone beginners and melodious etudes for more experienced trombone players. I believe in breaking down difficult pieces into chunks to work on in order to improve upon more difficult passages. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium

I assess every student's unique needs to help them achieve their goals. Influenced by teachings of other professional orchestral musicians and teachings of Arnold Jacobs. I take a singing approach to the trombone, putting sound at the forefront of every student's development. For young students, developing a love for music, good fundamentals, and forming good habits are the most important part of the work we do in private lessons. Being an excellent musician is not just about practicing, it is also creating well-rounded, intelligent individuals that have the skills to succeed in all parts of life. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music

I teach all my students the fundamentals, including correct breathing and playing techniques. My young beginners usually start with an elementary method book plus exercises and songs customized for each student. I am familiar with and have taught from all of the books that are currently available. My favorites are Standard of Excellence, Essential Elements, Ed Sueta's Band Method, and Rubank's Method. For my more advanced students, I use Arban's Complete Conservatory Method. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Euphonium Music

I was raised in Ohio where I spent my early years dancing. However, as I matured I realized I didn't enjoy dancing so much as I love the music I was moving too. I started on the clarinet in middle school and continued through high school. In college I picked up other instruments as I studied to become a classroom music teacher. I was also a military wife for 16 years before my husband retired from the Navy (so I moved around a lot) and I have 3 children of my own. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I use a two pronged approach to my lessons. I start with fundamentals, especially focusing on two areas: sound and counting. 1.) Sound: Over the last 34 years, I've found that the student who does not sound good - even though he or she can play all notes and rhythms - will not be pleasing to anyone who hears them play. What good is it if he can play all rhythms and notes and sound bad? Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Music Keyboard

For my brass students I use exercises from the greatest brass instructors and players to have ever live: Gordon, Dr. Colins, Arban, and Clark. For wood wind students: Kevnitt, Rubank's, and Schlossberg For Piano Student: Hanon, Simon, and Alfred's Teaching Method AND MANY MORE!! In addition, my students work on solos and pieces of music of their choosing. Though I guide them and offer suggestions from the classical, jazz, pop canons, they ultimately choose the songs they work on. Read More