Trumpet Lessons in Jeffersonton, VA

Instruments: Trumpet

My philosophy in teaching the trumpet is based on the individual needs of the student at their particular stage of development.   I strongly believe in reinforcing the fundamentals of brass playing: Proper breathing, air support, correct embouchure and tongue placement are all crucial elements for the trumpeter to achieve production of a clear and open sound.   Once such sound production has been attained in the lower and mid ranges of the instrument, the capability of the player to produce higher tones increases with proper practice and the help of studies of the overtone series as well as the playing of scales.   Rhythmic and metered playing must also be exercised for the sake of re-enforcing the ability to play in tempo and for rendering unfamiliar rhythm patterns manageable.    Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet French Horn Oboe Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students I start with basics: learning how to hold the instrument, put it together, etc. Then when that is solid we learn a few notes. From there we go to the Rubank books. At the same time, we start reading music that I find appropriate for them. For adults, it depends on what they want to learn. Popular songs or songs they request. But I also push for technical mastery of the instrument so I push for knowledge of scales and then keep pushing with more challenging/fun pieces. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

Sometimes while learning how to play an instrument teachers and students can get so wrapped up in how to play that they forget why they play. I always set aside time to work on pieces that are fun so that practicing and playing is not drudgery. Challenges are great to grow abilities but it is good to play music that is very easy for you so that the love of music and the joy it brings stays with you. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Teaching music to students has always been a huge passion of mine and developing a love of music is always my top priority. I had a lot of bad habits that developed over years so it will always be my goal to make sure this isn't the case with my students. Playing music should be fun, never too hard or painful. I will put a big emphasis on posture and building proper habits from the beginning. 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

I have taught private lessons for the past 16 years on trumpet since my senior year in high school. During this time many students have gone onward to participate in various music schools along the east coast. I currently teach online lessons. I have also taught in the public school system as a music educator for the past seven years. Students in my programs have been able to successfully audition into various regional and national ensembles. Read More