Music Lessons in Fort Myer, VA

Instruments: Voice

I earned a Doctorate in Musical Arts in Voice Pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory. My dissertation is entitled "The Application of Motor Learning Feedback in the Singing Voice Studio." https://ycp.academia.edu/ColinJohnson. In addition to my doctorate, I earned a Master of Music in voice pedagogy from Shenandoah Conservatory and Bachelor of Music in voice performance from the University of Iowa. I am a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), the Pan American Vocology Association (PAVA), and the Voice Foundation. 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: Piano

I am a third generation Rubinstin pianist, and integrating my love and passionn for technique and style of playing into my lessons. At each lesson, realistic goals will be set for students and documented in their learning journal. This also allows their accomplishments to be recognized and acknowledged, which will in turn help them to be eager to learn more. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I encourage young students to have their parents their for the lesson to make sure they are attentive because for some younger students it is hard for them to remain focus for long periods of time. Practice is one of the most important keys to success, when learning the piano. I always suggest practicing everyday for atleast 30 minutes if possible. It may not be possible for everyone but that is the goal. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

Building rapport is vital in a student-teacher relationship. I encourage the student to make personal goals of progress in addition to the goals I have set for them. I give the student constructive feedback on progress and acknowledge accomplishments. I try keeping an inspirational and open-ended environment for exploration, for music making is fun! I love contributing to the education and growth of fellow musicians. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I always ask students, both young and old, if they have goals they would like to work towards in lessons, and I then tailor lessons to help students achieve their goals. I listen to a students interests as well, and incorporate more into the lessons that will motivate and keep lessons fun, whether that is adding in time for composition/songwriting, learning how to play pop chords on the piano, or mixing in Disney/appropriate pop songs as well as classical and musical theater selections! Read More

Instruments: Trombone

In 2009, Dan was selected as bass trombonist for the Carnegie Hall Orchestral Winds seminar where he collaborated with the principals from the New York Philharmonic, Metropolitan Opera, and Philadelphia Orchestra. He has performed with professional ensembles such as Harrisburg Symphony, Waco Symphony Orchestra, and the Gaylen Jeter Jazz Orchestra. Dan has been a scholarship and fellowship recipient for some of the most prestigious music festivals, including the National Orchestral Institute and the Aspen Music Festival. Read More