Flute Lessons in Frederick, MD

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

My teaching style is based on an open system, which allows the student to express their ideas and concerns about the topics covered in each lesson, in order to build the educational strategy that can best benefit the student. As an professor, the educational development of each student will always be a priority, but as a musician I recognize that there are activities that can facilitate this work, such as collaborations between different students to perform chamber music, collaborations between the student and the teacher to play musical duos during lessons, among other activities that keep the student interested and curious at all times. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I believe learning an instrument is a very personalized process, and tailor the materials I use to the skill level and personal goals of each student. For brand new beginners, I typically start with the first Suzuki Flute book, Trevor Wye Beginning book for the Flute, and depending on the individual may begin with some of my own exercises that I write out for the student. For more intermediate to advanced students, I typically like to work out of the Selected Studies and Advanced Rubank books, as some of the more commonly asked audition excerpts for County/State Band typically come from these books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I have my students spend a great deal of time on rhythmic accuracy, scales, and sight-reading. I create my own lesson plans and provide students with a variety of instructional materials. Students begin each lesson with rhythmic drills and scales with gradual increases in difficulty levels. I prefer using Rubank method books and the Klose Complete Method for the clarinet. Students are always free to bring in music from their school band program and/or solos and etudes of their choice. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

I believe that developing a methodical way of practicing and thinking about music reading, tone production, and creating rhythm is the key to unlocking the ability of students to enjoy the music they produce. Therefore, my teaching style is methodical in that I try to be consistent with expectations for prepared material and activities for each lesson, while also being flexible to the unique needs of individual students. I also like to play with my students-- duets are a great way for students who are not in school ensemble to get a taste of what music is about, creating something beautiful with other people! Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Flute

I approach each lesson differently. I focus on the students' weaknesses and work with them on being more comfortable talking about and facing them. I usually play with the student to ensure that they know I am working just as much as they are. I also do not put intense pressure on students to learn at a tempo; I focus on what makes them enjoy playing and having fun. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Harmonica Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Even though the students often wanted to give up and many times gave up, I would not give up on the student, and would continue to not only try to make a valuable learning experience, but an enjoyable one that they would remember forever. Once I began to teach private lessons, I kept the same mindset. If the student is having a bad day and not soaking in as much information, I would make sure that there was something new they could perform to ensure they felt some sort of progress and enjoyed their time, whether is was a piece with a new note, or a new fingering or technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Music Keyboard

My methods are different for every student, but I always start with fundamentals. This includes scales, exercises to improve sound and intonation, reading, writing, improvisation, and most importantly listening. Depending on the path the student choses, some areas will be focused on more than others. I will often introduce more advanced concepts early if the student displays interest in them. I am not the kind of instructor who will say "play your etudes first and then we can talk about improvisation." I almost quit shortly after I started music because I had an instructor with that outlook. Read More