Music Lessons in Brentwood, TN

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Djembe

can teach from any book the student is interested in, but if he or she is unsure where to begin, I recommend the following. For basic snare drum technique, I teach out of "Alfred's Drum Method Book One," as well as printing out a page of all 40 essential rudiments for each student; I would teach these as the student progresses. For beginner drum set, I teach out of "Alfred's Beginning Drum Set Method," as well as playing along to songs the student picks out; this is truly the best way to improve on the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I started teaching in high school when friends would ask me questions about drumming techniques. From this I began taking on elementary age kids and grew to about 10 students a week in New York before leaving for Berklee. I have taught and performed for many Berklee Summer Programs including Basslines, Vocal Workshop, Stage Performance Workshop and Five Week. After graduating Berklee I took on 35 students a week from Jan-June 2013, before working as a musician on Celebrity Cruise Lines. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Bass Guitar Ukulele Double Bass

I've touched on this briefly above, but, my main focus in teaching a student is always to help them find their own musical voice. For beginners this means, not only helping them learn the rudiments and basics of music, but also exposing them to various styles and approaches they may not otherwise encounter. Usually, this will lead a student to a level of inspiration where they see the learning of a musical instrument as a lifetime commitment and a journey that is constantly exciting and demanding. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet

For beginner students, I love the Faber primer or Alfred Beginner. Once the students have learned the basics, I play for them several pieces they would want to play for the next recital coming up so they can have an idea of what they like. For Intermediate players, I love the Dozen a Day collection, Hanon, and Alfred books. For teenagers and adults I really want to know specifically the type of music they love and want to play whether it be classical, jazz, pop, RB, etc. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Music Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is dependent on the student. For some assigning certain things to practice and having the student keep track is a good motivator, for others its just asking them to look at the music. Motivations are different for every student and teacher. I always provide positive reinforcement to known work and effort, but I am also honest when it is obvious effort hasnt been put in to the work assigned. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar

Because I teach only part-time, I have a limited number of students so I'm able to create custom lesson plans for each individual. My goal for a first meeting with any student is to get to know the student. I want to know what music the student is into, what they want to focus on, why they're taking lessons and what their goals are. From there I can create a lesson plan that is a productive balance of fun, intriguing, challenging and fulfiling. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

My method of teaching involves a musically comprehensive approach. Through practice in rhythm, harmony, melody, theory and ear training, my players become well rounded musicians. The goal is to be able to have an intelligent musical conversation with your instrument, and to know how to play whatever you want to play. In my lessons reading sheet music is optional, but not required. I want my students to know that there is more to playing than just what's in the ink. Read More