Clarinet Lessons in Woodbridge, VA

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning students, I ask if they are using a specific book in their school program, and will work with that. Otherwise, I will start with the beginning Rubank method book, and move through books containing etudes and exercises of increasing difficulty. These may include folk/popular tunes and lighter classical repertoire. I believe that ensuring that the student enjoys playing is the single most important aspect to learning an instrument. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Outside of Towson University, I was a woodwind specialist with the Westminster High School Marching Band. I have worked in various music stores including Bill’s Music House in order to strengthen my knowledge and pedagogy of other wind instruments. Professional memberships include Kappa Kappa Psi, National Honorary Band Fraternity and the National Association for Music Education. In these organizations, I have held leadership positions such as Northeast District Secretary/Treasurer, Alumni Relations Officer, and 25th Anniversary Chair for Kappa Kappa Psi. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning elementary and middle school students I usually use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once my student has a working knowledge of the fundamentals, I introduce music that will build confidence and keep the student's interest. Although I am using a method book, it is just a guide. Along the way, I may supplement the book with other exercises to work on specific techniques. For adults, I first assess my student's skill level, and we talk about goals and a realistic practice schedule. Read More

Instruments: Flute Clarinet Ukulele Recorder Music

I have been playing clarinet for 19 years. I have been teaching public school general music chorus-- now going into my sixth year. I've been teaching clarinet since high school when I first started out as a Tri-M music honor society mentor. I taught privately in college and I teach privately on the side. With my students I record what we've worked on each lesson and always send out a lesson plan and agenda out for the next week after each lesson. 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: Piano Clarinet

For all students I strongly encourage an appropriate level to begin with. I am very familiar and prefer to teach with the James Bastien series. This series come with the appropriate assigned age level. There are four books with each level. A technic, theory, performance, and Piano. While progressing through that level I mix in to teach Major, Minor, harmonic minor, and melodic minor scales for theory and fundamentals. Other than this specific material I like to match personalities along with solos and other fun activities! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bassoon

I am a consummate musician and music educator. With over 45 years experience in the music education profession, I have taught numerous students, ranging in age from children through adult, beginner through advanced levels. I have considerable teaching experience in both the public and private school setting, as well as at the college and university level. In addition to my teaching activities, I have been active as a soloist, recitalist, conductor, lecturer, author, and administrator. Read More