Music Lessons in Bethesda, MD

Instruments: Trumpet Bass Guitar Double Bass

I have found that for musicians at all levels, especially beginners, exploration is key. Learning an instrument is like building a relationship with that instrument and discovering what sounds you can create together. I use this guided discovery as a tool for discussing technique and musical ideas. Once enough fundamentals are grasped, I introduce repertoire which will lead to a recital performance. I always keep in mind the specific interests of the student and work towards meeting their individual goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Recorder

Methods are tailored around the individual needs and goals of the student. Fundamentals in music theory are balanced with repertoire and lessons focus on developing practice skills that the student can use outside the lesson. The Suzuki method is ideal for beginning flute students, particularly young students. This approach allows students to become comfortable holding the instrument, producing a solid tone, and training the ear, before introducing notation. For beginning pianists, the Bastien series works well in terms of breaking down repertoire into manageable pieces and marking students' progress in early study. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I have experience teaching flute and piccolo students ages 6-60, from brand new beginners to advanced high school students and beyond. I have worked with students in a variety of settings, from one on one private lessons, small group sessions, to flute sectional coaching. My primary goal is always for lessons to be a fun and positive experience at any level. While I emphasize technique and fundamentals at all levels because I believe these are essential to develop the skill required learning any instrument, I always like to end lessons with a skill appropriate duet, because the best part of music making is being able to create and share it with others. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For younger students I usually recommend a method book or I make copies from my own library for the student.  I usually will teach fundamentals through a book, but I always look for opportunities to convey musical principles in a more natural way, and especially for kids, fun is the most important method there is.  Often times a student will stumble upon something interesting unintentionally and I use these moments to teach, because it both encourages them to recognize their natural talent and helps the student to make connections from their limited technical skills to greater conceptual knowledge. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

I have taught for many music schools (both public and private).  I have also owned my owe school of arts, teaching all instruments, putting together young groups.  One group in particular called: "ARCTIC THUNDER" was a group of 14 children from 8 - 14 yrs old.  They performed at Walt Disney (Magic Music Days), and opened for many known recording artist.  You can see a video of them recording by searching for Kayla Arctic Thunder on Youtube. Read More

Instruments: Ukulele

With a beginner student, I start with the basics. We learn how to properly hold the instrument and how to tune the strings. From there, the students will learn the fundamentals of finger placement and basic strumming. Once the student feels comfortable, we start to learn different chords and scales. At this point, students will begin learning songs with basic chords. Once we get past this stage the lessons become more tailored to the individual student and we begin to learn and play music that the student is interested in. Read More

Instruments: Voice Saxophone Clarinet Ukulele Recorder Music

My goal and focus is on the individuals success. From where they start to where they end I want them to be able to feel and see their progress. I dont want to set unacheiveable goals. My style is to fit the students needs and get them to the level they want to be at but with in reason to where they are currently. I want my students to be inspired. Read More