Music Lessons in Chantilly, VA

Instruments: Guitar Classical Guitar

Since I'm primarily a Classical Guitar player, I emphasize the technique required for it, which is mainly finger-style. My primary teaching method is derived from Aaron Shearer, which many famous guitarists have used, including the well known Manuel Barrueco. The main instruction book is written by Aaron Shearer, which teaches classical guitar technique and standard music notation sight reading, but I'm also flexible. If I see a student would prefer to strum and accompany their own or others singing, I teach from Hal Leonard's Complete Guitar Method book. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I have an arsenal of books I may work through or recommend for students from beginner to the advanced player. However, my lessons are customized to fit each students needs. The exercises or books I may work from are usually recommended to the student after assessing where they are skill-wise, what their end goal may be, or based on what tools they like that will help them retain the information the best. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I think it is true that teachers often learn as much as students do. I always find myself reflecting throughout the week on lessons that I taught, and considering ways in which I can better interact with and tailor my instruction toward each individual student. My most important duty as a teacher is to help students connect with and enjoy the music, so I make a point of identifying any patterns and points of interest, and encourage them to express themselves freely while respecting the composers' intentions. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For the youngest students, I begin with Music for Little Mozarts or John Thompson method books and a lot of music related games. Flash cards assist with retention of musical terms and notes. I also provide worksheets to help reinforce what the students learn. Later I add exercises to help with rhythm and agility. Older students I begin with John Thompson method books or Bastien method books, theory books, and exercises. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I teach breath support, vocal range expansion, resonance, tone placement, posture, proper diction, sight reading notes, ear training, releasing tension and stage performance. I can help my students improve technique for any genres of music they want with a focus on building a solid and healthy technique. For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Alfred’s piano book library Essential Elements. I recommend Alfred’s Prep course for age of 5 to 6 years old. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bassoon

I have at my disposal a variety of method books and exercises that I use with my students, depending on their age, level of achievement, and particular needs. I tend to use Accent on Achievement, the Breeze-Easy Methods, and the Belwin/Alfred Student Instrumental Course for young and developing players. As the student advances, I use the Rubank Advanced Method Volume I, then transfer to method books specific to the particular instrument being studied. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ

Every student is different, and every student has a different level of ability, interests, etc. I find it's important to be mindful of what each student needs at any given moment in their musical journey. Part of this involves asking vital questions and assessing each student's innate musicality before proceeding with materials. Some kids are very precocious are best suited for materials intended for adult beginners. Sometimes students who are seniors feel very fulfilled by learning fundamental skills with simplified showtune melodies. Read More