Music Lessons in Riverdale, MD

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

Instruments: Piano

 I like the Prep course books for children and Alfreds adult educaion book for adult beginners. I use Hanon and Picsna for the technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

I typically begin my lessons with a 30 to 45-minute session to introduce music theory and the chosen instrument. For beginner students, I use a combination of the James Bastien and Alfred's Basic methods to teach foundational music theory. Based on the student’s instrument of choice, I supplement these lessons with additional materials tailored to practice and performance. For adult students, I prioritize their interests, adapting my lessons to make the learning experience engaging, enjoyable, and relevant to their musical goals. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I encourage small but daily practice. you don't have to play guitar for 4 hours a day to make good progress. Just 15 minutes every day will be sufficient especially when you first start out. It is deeply satisfying when i see a student grasp a concept that they worked so hard on. set realistic goals and don't try to overwhelm yourself by trying to play extremely difficult music in a short amount of time. basics is key if you know the basics you can do the harder things and with ease. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

For students of all ages I focus on fundamentals by using, The Remington and Arbans books, but for beginners Hal Leonard's Essential Elements is a great start. The fundamentals are never mastered, and the Arbans and Remington methods, are time tested and proven methods for improving on Trombone. I also use the Arnold Jacob's method of Song and Wind. I also think it is important to let students choose their own issues to work on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Keyboard

If the student is interested in jazz, I typically use Jim Snidero's "Jazz Conception" books as a great starting place to learn about interpreting jazz music as well as a basis for starting to talk about improvisation. Continuing from there, jazz students will start to learn jazz "standards" from the Great American Songbook and discussions of improvisation will go deeper. With all students, it is important to discover what they are interested in and encourage that interest. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching experience started after college, teaching a family friend bass guitar. From there I realized I could just as well teach guitar, piano, and saxophone as well. I find it rewarding to watch people grow and learn skills they can use the rest of their life, enriching their life with the expression of music. From taking private lessons of my own on saxophone and guitar throughout high school and college, I've learned that consistency of practice is key! Read More