Trumpet Lessons in Paris, VA

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Flute Clarinet Double Bass

Beginner Piano - I typically start out with Faber's Piano Adventures Series. Once they have grasped the reading of music, scales, and arpeggios I start branching out into a fundamental book such as Finger Power and we start working on songs that they find fun and interesting. Once we get into the grove I start teaching more in depth theory. Beginner Band/Orchestra - I typically start out with the method book that is used in your school district. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone

It is my belief that there are three components to learning and improving at music: skill and technique, musical creativity, and, most importantly, the genuine desire to learn and play music. An appetite and aspiration to learn is what molded me into the musician I am today, and I consider it to be the most valuable asset to any student. I motivate students to practice, but also encourage them to take time to listen and appreciate all forms of music, so that they may better understand and enjoy it. 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 Recorder

My methods vary between each student. For beginning students, that are not learning in a school setting, I typlically start with Hal Lenard's Essential Elements For Band. Once the student had progressed, I will start to introduce solo repetoire that the student will be instested in, which could be pop tunes or other type of music. This will encourage the student's passion for music to grow. If the student is in a school setting, then the student will work on all of the music for school and solo repetoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

I have a lot of experience with curriculum development. My favorite books to teach from include Accent on Achievement, Alfred's Piano Book series and Essential Elements. However I can teach without a book on any instruments and compose assignments as I have done in the past. Even if I am teaching using a book, I usually do a lot of ear training and music theory based assignments that are not found in these books. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

In addition, I consider it of paramount importance to coach performers of all levels to “make music” rather than to merely play the notes on the page: Whether the goal be to prepare him or her for solo and ensemble competitions, concert music, jazz studies or the occasional religious service, conveying the significance of everyone’s own personal interpretation of a composition while performing it is what makes music come alive. Read More