Trumpet Lessons in Fort Myer, DC

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

I love music. Music changed my life growing up. I was a very shy kid and music taught me how to connect with others from various backgrounds. I think that music is one of the most powerful forces on our planet. Being a teacher is amazing because I get to share those experiences with my students. I graduated in 2004 with a Bachelors of Music with a focus on Jazz Studies. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Music

For all students I began with breathing exercises, then buzzing in there mouthpiece. Then go into working from the Essential Elements book by Hal Leonard. After they have progressed and grasp the fundamentals, I usually began giving them solo repertoire. I usually ask my student what they are interested in and once the fundamentals are learned by the student I work with them on something they may want to do. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

My teaching experience began in my high school band, when I helped younger students who were just starting out. Having been the beneficiary of wonderful music lessons myself, I could easily see their importance and began to apply the techniques that had been taught to me. Most of my experience teaching is with younger students and beginners, though I have worked with intermediate-level students as well. I enjoy helping students transition from awkward beginnings into true musicians. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet French Horn Music

I have had the pleasure of teaching for the past 5 years publicly and privately. I have lead masterclasses and group lessons as well as private lessons and large ensembles. I teach my students the fundamentals of the instrument heavily as it helps provide the foundation for all musical concepts. I. have had the pleasure of performing with Symphonic Bands, Orchestras, Jazz Bands, and combos during my time at school helping me to demonstrate and teach various styles. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Bass Guitar Double Bass

My teaching balances improvisation-guided exploration with firm technical training. It is important for students to be excited about discovering new things as well as being encouraged by achieving clearly-defined realistic goals, which we discuss at every lesson. In addition to this balance, I encourage a lot of listening. Music is a 'heard art' and learning to listen attentively is key to musical growth. To this end, listening assignments (and likely additional suggestions!) are usually given in every lesson, determined by the student's interests, area of study, and current focus. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

Everything we talk about carries over past the art of playing the trumpet. For example, learning how to be a team player, creativity, and the reward of daily practice teaches the student about success in many different contexts. I do expect my students to practice at least four to five times a week so that lessons are as productive as they can be. I do try to find out what inspires each student, be it types of music or anything in the outside world. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Music Keyboard

My methods are different for every student, but I always start with fundamentals. This includes scales, exercises to improve sound and intonation, reading, writing, improvisation, and most importantly listening. Depending on the path the student choses, some areas will be focused on more than others. I will often introduce more advanced concepts early if the student displays interest in them. I am not the kind of instructor who will say "play your etudes first and then we can talk about improvisation." I almost quit shortly after I started music because I had an instructor with that outlook. Read More