Music Lessons in Pisgah, MD

Instruments: Flute

I use the same books and methods that were taught to me. Trevor Wye's books on Tone and Technique form the foundation of learning the flute. A Rhythm A Day is exactly what it says - a different rhythm to practice that the student may encounter in music they play later. I also use daily breathing exercises to work on breath control - the most important part of playing the flute! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods depend both on the experience and interests of the student. Generally, I hope that students acquire enough skills that they can begin teaching themselves. This involves basic technical abilities, understanding of the layout of the guitar, basic reading skills, ear training skills, understanding of music theory, and rhythm skills. I believe that once a student can begin learning on their own time is when real growth happens through practice. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet

A typical lesson with me will be structured like this:Emphasis on basics (scales, studies, tuning, etc)Sight Reading and Ear TrainingLearning techniques through pieces I am always aiming for technical building through the process of working through real music in order to keep lessons fun and engaging. I typically start beginning students with Essential Elements and work through the basics with that approach. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods depend entirely on where the student is beginning. If the student does not play in a school setting, I will usually start with Essential Elements. If they are playing in band, I will use whatever their teacher starts with in band and progress from there. If the student has been playing for a while and no longer can use Essential Elements, I will see what music they are interested in. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

She is a newcomer to the DC area, and has previously lived, sung, and taught in Illinois, Indiana, and Vienna, Austria. Melissa has performed on both the undergraduate and graduate level (and beyond). Her experience includes operas, operettas, recitals, musicals, and choirs. She has performed in venues ranging from the Indianapolis Opera to the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. Over the years she has performed in the United States, Canada, England, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Russia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Finland. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I use variety of books, like from classical to Jazz. Here are books I usually use for my students. For beginners - Teaching little fingers to play, Bastien piano basics level 1&2, Favorite classical melodies 1&2, Alfred piano library 1&2, Just Imagine! For late intermediate & intermediate - Accent on Gillock 2,3,4, Jazz, Rag & Blues 1,2,3,4,5, Burgmuller 24 studies, Sonatina Album, Gurlitt selected works, Gurlitt Album for the young, ABRSM (The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music UK) exam pieces, Chopin Waltz, Chopin Mazurka, Hanon, Bach Invention, Tchaikovsky Seasons, Bastien piano literature series, and etc. Read More

Instruments: Cello

From my experience, students vary greatly in musical background, personality, and needs, so I view each new student as a blank slate. My philosophy has always been to patiently build a solid foundation and not rush into advanced pieces at the risk of accumulating bad habits. At the same time, I recognize how important it is to keep learning fun, so I negotiate the balance accordingly. The material I use consists mainly of Suzuki and Rick Mooney's technique books, with other supplementary books and pieces depending on the student's needs. Read More