Music Lessons in Derwood, MD

Instruments: Drums Conga

Teaching an individual how to play drums is a very rewarding process for both the teacher and the student, and I find it ineffective to demand anything with unrealistic expectations. I introduce the student to simple and relevant information in a step by step way to ensure a comfortable learning environment that gives the student their own motivation to progress and get better. It is also very important for me to understand my student in a way that helps me better suite what they enjoy so they can get the most out of the learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

While achievement is important to me, I believe that developing long-term skills is a far more significant. I prefer to emphasize skill-building and retention, and always want to make sure the student is enjoying the process. I prefer to set realistic short- and long-term goals for students at each lesson, and acknowledge their accomplishments with a system of rewards. Additionally, at the end of each year, I encourage my students' participation in a studio-wide voluntary recital, which is intended to showcase their growth and development over the course of the year as well as afford them an opportunity to perform in public. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I started teaching while in college, beginning in 1987 and gradually progressed to teaching as a career in 1994. I have taught at the collegiate level at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. I have also taught award-winning drumlines at Calvert Hall College, Lansdowne High School and Dulaney High School, all in the Baltimore metropolitan area. I have taught students of a wide age range, including students as young as 5 to older adults in their 60's and 70's. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone

Piano: For beginning students who are children, I start by teaching out of the Faber Piano Adventure books. I find that they focus on the more exciting aspects of music, such as sight reading. This is different from the Bastion books which I think focus too much on more challenging (and boring) methods such as articulation. The Faber books are great because they have fun short songs that the student can play with the teacher in a duet. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

My teaching method goes beyond just technique; it's about unlocking the inherent creativity and therapeutic potential within each student. I believe the drums can be a powerful tool for self-expression and personal growth, and I encourage my students to explore this aspect of their musical journey. While I guide them through a comprehensive curriculum covering diverse styles like rock, blues, jazz, and funk, my emphasis is on fostering a deep connection with the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I began teaching just before the age of 18 at a local music school. My initial training as a teacher was very formal/classical, but I began to experiment with more modern methods and technology and was eventually able to set out to create my own school. Soon thereafter, I had the opportunity to join a prestigious and wonderful program which gave me access to the biggest network of young musicians and teachers in the world. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginners, I start with the basics - proper posture and hand position, introduction to the keyboard and note recognition. In my experience, the Faber series is the most widely followed to get students started on their musical journey. As students progress, I ensure that they develop a repertoire that consists of at least 3 songs. I emphasize the importance of technical exercises that begin with 5 finger scales and advance to proper octave scales. Read More