Music Lessons in Catharpin, VA

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

A native Washingtonian, tenor saxophonist Brian graduated from the prestigious Duke Ellington School of The Arts, a product of master teacher and musician Davey Yarborough. He earned his BFA from The New School University in New York City, studying under Arnie Lawrence, Steve Neil, Charles Davis, Reggie Workman and Chico Hamilton. In 2008 Brian completed a Master of Music (MM) degree from Howard University where he was a graduate teaching assistant and student of saxophone virtuoso, Charlie Young. Among others, Brian has performed with Curtis Fuller, Gil Scott-Heron, Shirley Horn, Stanley Turrentine, Stanley Clarke, Mickey Roker, Butch Warren, Freddie Redd, Tom Abbs & Frequency Response and currently plays with Tomas Fujiwara and the Hookup. 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: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

I have played at noteable venues like the Downtown Events Center, Regency Park, and Berkeley Music Hall as well as The Pour House and even well-known coffee shops throughout my area. I combine classic rock with new age rock approaches in my guitar and drumset intruction. I am big into the blues and rock and folk styles especially, but can teach a few others thru the Intermediate levels. I have most experience as an instrumentalist performing in rock bands in the greater Raleigh area. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I believe that students excel in an encouraging and praise filled environment. I also believe that students should be taught how to practice so that they can excel. I tailor each lesson according to the students needs and do my best to instill in them a love for Music. If a student is getting frustrated I am not afraid of taking a break and working on something fun that engages the student. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

My first experience as a teacher came as a sophomore and junior in high school. I was involved with a program where high school students would work with elementary school band students once a week, and help them work on their band program music and develop their musicality. I found the experience to be extremely rewarding, and have maintained that interest in teaching. I spent time in college working as a music theory tutor for beginning music students, and in graduate school worked to develop and implement lesson plans for beginning clarinetists. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola

I dont have only one. It depends on the child or the adult. Someone might need Suzuki, some Essentials, some russian method(Radionov) and also music that they like! I try to be flexible and to understand whats best for them! Also I try to keep a balance between fun and dedication, for them to also be aware that music requires discipline even when you do it just as a hobby! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

My teaching style is very analytical yet engaging! I try to establish a good relationship before pushing a student. At that point I will ask the student to play to the best of his/her ability. I teach in a style that helps children isolate problem areas, so that they can practice specific excerpts they are struggling with. I also do a lot of ear training and music theory to ensure that students are obtaining well-rounded musical skills. Read More