Trombone Lessons in The Mission, 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: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium

I really value input from all of my students no matter what age. This keeps our lessons fun and challenging. It is very important that each student sets their own goals to reach at the end of each lesson to achieve for the next week. I am a big advocate of positive reinforcement. For my younger trumpeters I like to use stickers and to play fun duets whenever they achieve their goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Music Keyboard

It is my hope that I can give just a fraction of what those wonderful men and women gave to me, back to my students. My first experience teaching was in Marching band camp as a junior and senior in high school. As I became an veteran upperclassman, it became my job to teach the younger Freshmen and Sophomores how to march and play in the marching band. I absolutely loved passing on this knowledge and discovered I had a knack for speaking in public and an ability to clearly explain complicated ideas to my to those listening. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I first began taking private students in the 1990s, and continued to teach privately through my undergraduate years in the early 2000s. Though I stopped for some time to pursue artistic and professional ventures in music, I recently returned to the teaching realm, and am exciting to take on new students. In addition to private brass lessons, I have taught music in public schools through various non-profits and, above all, enjoy the light that comes on in a student's eyes when he/she "gets it." It is why I do what I do. 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: 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

It is rewarding for me to see my students develop a passion for the music they play as well as for playing their instrument better. I foster my students' knowledge and interest in music by giving them insights and fun facts about the pieces they are studying as well as the lives of the great composers and legendary performers of the music they are learning. I impress upon my students the reasons for, as well as the importance of, learning their scales and basic drills. Read More