Music Lessons in Arlington, VA

Instruments: Piano

I firmly believe a solid foundation is the key to success. And that is why, I have spent the past 15 years (and counting) developing and hand-crafting a SIMPLE, EASY-TO-FOLLOW, STEP-BY-STEP approach to learning piano, designed to get students playing songs on their own, often times within a matter of a few short months. The process can sometimes be a bit slower in the beginning, but often leads to more long term, ongoing success. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I started teaching private lessons on guitar and bass in the mid-1970's, after playing for about 10 years. If you want to learn to play, you have to practice. It is a physical and mental exercise that is a significant challenge to any beginnner and and on-going project that you can work on for your entire life. That's why I emphasize, encourage and enable you with many methods and techniques to keep yourself focused on praciticing, rehearsing and performing so it becomes part of your daily routine. Read More

Instruments: Violin Fiddle

When teaching fiddle I teach students starting on simple tunes that we learn by ear and memorize. With a few standard well known tunes down I use those to demonstrate more of the nuances of fiddle performance. The process of learning fiddle is a simultaneous process of learning how to pick up tunes quickly by ear and play them idiomatically so there is not much in the way of text that I use in the actual lessons however I will recommend readings depending on how much the student is interested in that, otherwise we mostly have a fun time playing fiddle Music Theory I teach using the standard AP music theory text and the Kostka Tonal harmony book or other textbooks that the student is using from their classes. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion

A custom lesson plan will be developed for each student. Reading, technique, play along with songs the student is interested in learning. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I encourage small but daily practice. you don't have to play guitar for 4 hours a day to make good progress. Just 15 minutes every day will be sufficient especially when you first start out. It is deeply satisfying when i see a student grasp a concept that they worked so hard on. set realistic goals and don't try to overwhelm yourself by trying to play extremely difficult music in a short amount of time. basics is key if you know the basics you can do the harder things and with ease. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For my vocal students, I start with vocal exercises every lesson and allow them learn to vocal techniques through different vocal exercises. Then I work with my students on the repertoire that they are interested in or repertoire that can help them practice their weak spots. For my piano students, I use many different series (Alfred's, Faber, or some classic repertoire) depending on their level and age. For all students, I will also include music theory when I teach because the students will have a stronger foundation with all of these components, which will enable them to learn better, faster and even by their own. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

My first experience giving private lessons was at a summer music camp right before my senior year in high school.  I have consistently taught piano and cello students for over 10 years independently and as an affiliate of local music stores.  My goal as a teacher is for each of my students to make gradual progress each week as they become more proficient with their exercises and music.  I hold at least 2 recitals a year which I strongly encourage everyone to take part in. Read More