Trumpet Lessons in Wood Ridge Garfield, NJ

Instruments: Trumpet Music

Originally from Houston, TX, I began my music studies in 2010 and graduated from Sam Houston State University with my Bachelor's degree in Music Education. I went to earn a Master's degree in Music Performance from the University of Houston in 2017. I recently moved to New York City after being accepted into the Manhattan School of Music's Professional Studies program for classical trumpet. In October of 2018, I won the 2nd trumpet position with the Hudson Valley Philharmonic Orchestra and have performed as principal trumpet and soloist with the orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet

For trumpet students I initially provide my own material, based on the exercises which I have found to be beneficial in my own playing. Early on, I'll ask most students to play a recording of one of their favorite songs, which we'll use to improvise to as well as for ear-training purposes. As soon as the student has learned enough notes, we'll begin playing songs. I firmly believe that developing a good sense of a singing style is the foundation for good playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba Music

I began teaching private lessons in 2019. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for student, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. If a student is not having fun in their lessons, then I am not doing my job! My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Drums Recorder Euphonium Tuba Keyboard

For beginning students, I typically start with the method book that the child is given by the school Music teacher, making certain that they are at least adequately prepared to play their assigned studies (or pages) for their school Music lesson. I also incorporate playing the Duets provided in that volume, along with the students. I then suggest that they purchase other necessary methods, duets and solos at their local Music Store(s), as they progress, and they will therefore require more advanced Musical materials than that used at their school. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

While I stand by a need for fundamental work, it is also very important to understand what the student wants to learn. Upon the first meeting, I typically like to ask the student to show me what their warm-up routine is, and what they are currently working on. This gives me a good groundwork to customize lesson plans for each student. I will then ask them what skills they would like most to improve upon, as well as any new skills they would like to learn. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet French Horn

Seeing a student excel and reach their goals is the most rewarding experience a teacher can have. Everyone works at a different speed, and I expect each student to do the best they can do. I do not believe in forcing a "one size fits all" teaching method on every student. Each student has different goals, and I focus on reaching those goals at a pace that will challenge the student without feeling impossible or insurmountable. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Music

I have made just about every mistake that an aspiring trumpeter could make! I have had to repeat lessons never learned properly, try to skip necessary building blocks, muscle my way through performances that have damaged me physically, repeat and ingrain bad habits, and almost destroy my deep passionate love of music and the instrument that I have played for 67 1/2 years. My goal is to inspire right practice habits, illuminate the beauty of brass instruments, and help the student create their own voice. Read More