Music Lessons in Riverdale, MD

Instruments: Piano

I began teaching private lessons 9 yeras ago when some neighborhood friends encouraged me to share my love of music through teaching. Encouraging regular, consistent practice and keeping a journal of areas of focus during practice is one of the techniques I encourage for students of all ages to progress and grow in their enjoyment of the instrument. I love encouraging students to compose their own material, and to share their music in competitions and recitals, as a way to develop their passion for music and to stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with an intro Piano or Drum Method. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Mike began playing at age 7 on both piano and drums and started performing at age 14. Later he studied voice in college and picked up the banjo as another instrument to have in his repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

For young beginners, I start off with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, as they are probably already working in this book if they are in bad at school.  Outside of that, I'll typically incorporate key beginning excercises from the Arban's Book to help develop the students sound and chops.  This was how my first teacher taught me, and I found his methods extremely helpful in my early years.  Once they're fundamentals are developed, I will begin to work on the students first recital. 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

Instruments: Piano

I primarily use the Faber and Alfred materials for instruction Method of instruction is tailored for each student Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

All lessons are tailored to each students ability level, with the goal of creating specific, achievable objectives to foster a successful environment. Students tend to enjoy working on what they are passionate about, so I am interested in finding where a students musical passion exists, and incorporating it into lesson plans and assignments. I do not tolerate shortcuts, but rely on positive reinforcement to encourage students to develop their skills thoroughly. Read More