Music Lessons in Alexandria, VA

Instruments: Piano Cello Double Bass Keyboard

I am a professional classical bassist turned singer/songwriter - I also teach and play cello and general music. For over a decade I have performed with orchestras, chamber ensembles, bands, duets, trios, solo, etc... as well as teaching students of a variety of instruments and ages. Besides bass, I have taught piano, cello, pop vocals, ensemble skills, music theory, music production, and coached based on individual projects. I have played with the National Symphony at the Kennedy Center, in Russia, and at Carnegie Hall as a substitute musician as well as Quintango, a tango group based out of Alexandria, VA. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

In the first lesson, I assess the student's current ability and also discuss the student's personal goals and interests in music. Based on this information, I create a daily fundamentals routine for the student to use to improve the basic building blocks of playing a musical instrument. I also allow students to bring in music that interests them from solo material and pieces of music from band class. Approximately half of the weekly lesson is spent on fundamental materials that I assign weekly, and the other half is spent on the student's chosen material. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Keyboard

For young beginning students most of the time I like to use John Thompson's ''Easiest piano course'' as a practicing book,for their hands position and finger velocity I use ''A Dozen a Day'' and also I introduce them to music notation,spelling and writing with various Theory books . For older and adult beginners I choose different books. I have my own customized methods to teach different age groups and personalities.The most important thing is that a music lesson should be fun, not a burden. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Djembe

I will also use many Jazz and Latin Standards to apply the theoretical patterns learned. Artist included will be Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Pat Methany, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and Sonny Rollins. I also communicate with my students as well to see specifically what they would like to learn/understand more of. Also, for my piano students we will be use the "Hanon Complete" book to work on speed and strength. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Piccolo Music Keyboard

My materials and methods differ depending on the pupil's age/ability. For a young 11 year old beginner, homework assignments will begin with the instrument itself, and then eventually Book One of any method book desired. Popular practice dictates good results with books like Yamaha and Standard of Excellence. For middle-level ability (middle school / early high school), the Rubank series is perfect. Finally, with middle and above levels; solos, ensemble work, duets, and additional etude books will be used. Read More

Instruments: Flute Clarinet Ukulele Recorder Music

I use a variety of clarinet method books based on my current professional library. I also order based on student need. Method books are selected based on the students ability. Lesson plans are developed based on the students abilities, progress, and expressed goals. After each lesson, I email out to the student and their guardian, a run-down of what was covered with next weeks agenda and what the student should practice. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is to engage students through the history and love of music and to help them understand the fundamentals of music theory. As the students progresses i will slowly introduce more advance material through the lessons. I will help the student grow and progress and help engage them on the infinite combination of the 12 notes on the instrument. I will send the student home with material to practice because in order to become a better musician you have to practice to develop your skills Read More