Trombone Lessons in Turtle Creek, TX

Instruments: Trombone

I teach my students to practice a growth mindset. As musicians, I find that we can easily become perfectionists. While I think it is important to critique ourselves so we can improve, my policy is that my students critique themselves based on their own progress. For example, instead of comparing themselves to other students at an audition, I encourage them to compare themselves to who they were yesterday. I truly believe that students can more easily reach their full potential when they are focused on growth rather than competition against others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Ukulele Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba

For beginner students who are children, I usually start with the Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has advanced to where I can see that they have a good grasp of the fundamentals of the instrument, that is typically when I begin to introduce solo repertoire and supplement with my own material. For adult beginners, I typically will try and use the Essential Elements book to start with but not for very long. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium Tuba

Given the trust level that it takes, a bond is definitely formed. Each being very unique, memorable, and adventurous over all. As a private instructor I have seen several ups and downs, whether through the music they are working on or a personal problem, but it is great to see how having something that they are passionate brings this new perspective in everything they do. No matter age, background, aspirations nor gender, music is universal that could bring joy to us all no matter what side of the spectrum we are on. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium Tuba

My approach is methodical and step-by-step. I believe each learning step builds on the last, and that each new skill acquired "unlocks" new abilities and new music that can be played. At core, everything comes down to the twin pillars of fundamentals (including breathing, embouchure, tone, articulation, and range) and music reading, including rhythm and sightreading. In my lessons, I am always warm and encouraging and celebrate success, yet I always direct students' attention beyond what they have just accomplished to the next goal to be achieved. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone

For beginner piano students, I start from teaching out of the Piano Adventure Series, and Theory Time books. The Piano Adventure Series is great because the song arrangements have tiered piano proficiency for beginner to intermediate players. After students work in these books, other repertoire can be added to perform for holidays and recitals. For trombone students, I first make sure my students make characteristic sounds and introduce music to meet their playing level. Read More

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

Since most of the students I teach are members of a band program, I make sure that most of my lessons are based on what is being learned at school. Planning an individual practice schedule is imperative for their success but at the same time make it enjoyable so the student will want to practice. Constant acknowledgement of their progress each lesson the student more eager to learn. Even though the school program may require students to learn from specific material, I also tailor instruction to music they enjoy performing. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone

I hope to instill a joy and passion for music in my students. Through our work on fundamentals and etudes they will learn the skills they need to truly express themselves when they perform. I always try to ask the student what the scene of a movie would be if they are playing the soundtrack, and get them to convey that when they play. My goal is to motivate the students by modeling great playing for them, and by giving them music that excites them! Read More