Voice Lessons in Spencerville, MD

Instruments: Voice

A student needs to grow at their own pace. My students will not learn anything if they're not enjoying themselves. I always emphasize how important it is to enjoy the effort you put into your practice and lessons. I am full of laughter and energy to keep a lesson flowing with positive vibes. Also, I believe in failure. My students will always be comfortable with failing with gusto! I truly emphasize that it is important to fail, so you can grow. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For young voice students, I usually start them off with the Giant Book of Childrens Vocal Solos, which has enough songs to last the first few years of learning to sing, and the Full Voice books in order to learn solfedge and some music theory. Once we have done some of the simpler songs that teach fundamentals, we then can add supplemental pieces (classical, folk, appropriate pop). For teens and adults, both piano and voice lessons are tailored toward goals and interests. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Cello Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is informed by trauma-informed care and a student-led philosophy. This means that I take into account the frustration that learning a new instrument can entail, and use therapeutic techniques to make sure my students are regulated during these moments of frustration. I provide structure and guidance for my students, but give them opportunities for free exploration, decision making, and leadership throughout a lesson. During lessons, I like to emphasize practice techniques and thinking outside the box when approaching difficult or new musical content. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

It is very rewarding when I see students develop a passion for music! I believe it is important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. In each lesson, I set realistic goals for each student. I help fuel students desire to progress and allow students to be eager to learn more by acknowledging their accomplishments. I give each student the room to express his or herself freely. Read More

Instruments: Voice Flute

For young children (ages 4-10), I focus primarily on building a foundation in rhythm, pitch matching, and vocal warm ups (wolf howls, lip trills, tongue trills, etc.). I also encourage young children to bring in songs they enjoy singing, and use those songs to help build their understanding of musical structure. For slightly more experienced children (those who already can read music) I teach using the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) guidelines. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I use Bastien Piano Basics for young and older beginners, as well as supplemental books from Alfred Piano and Hal Leonard. For intermediate students, we begin building a repertoire together of pieces the student enjoys and plays well. I try to find a nice balance between classical, traditional, and popular music. For voice I use the Little Singers series for kids and supplemental books of songs from Hal Leonard. These songs include Disney favorites and other classic songs such as "Puff, the Magic Dragon". Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard

Sometimes all it takes to really understand the material is a considerate instructor who knows how to teach at your pace. Having worked with students throughout Northern Virginia since 2000, I bring a depth of professional experience and knowledge to those who are eager to expand their minds, talents, and skills. I am passionate about musical education. It is my belief that music is a gift to be shared - not just between instructor and student but also between the student and their community. Read More