Music Lessons in Salem, VA

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Harmonica Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been playing guitar for over 20 years, with much of that time spent giving private instruction to students of all ages. Having first started playing other instruments as a child, my love of music really took off when I began playing the guitar in my teen years. I have since performed in many different venues and also enjoy playing in a local church. My playing styles vary between pop, rock, alternative, blues, christian and folk music. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

I started out playing cornet in elementary school, switching to Baritone horn in middle school and switching to tuba in the high school band. I also began playing bass guitar in those high school days in the late '60s and early '70s. Playing in rock bands, I decided to Study music at Norfolk State and Old Dominion University, after high school, wanting to learning more about music. I began playing professionally with the Norfolk Symphony, played in the pit band for touring Broadway shows, and subsequently hit the road as a touring musician with popular regional dance bands. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I'm a devoted musician who loves to teach, taking pride in all of the personal relationships I've garnished from my fruitful career! It all began when I started playing drums at a young age in my father's music store here in Virginia. Since then, I've traveled the country gigging, touring, and recording with bands such as, "Blue Meridian", and "Vishuda". The Viper Room, SXSW, and the Norva are a few venues that I've had the pleasure to play. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

In high school I was fortunate to work with some local jazz musicians. One was a famous jazz guitarist named Lenny Breau. We had an artist in residence program with composer/ drummer Steve Grover and he was a big influence on me along with Dick Demers. I have performed in symphonies. I have done many Broadway musicals playing in the pit. I have played in many bands. Before I moved to Virginia I was living in Maine and playing in 5 bands. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am a firm believer in having each student learn basic scales, starting with five finger patterns for beginners, since a solid grasp on this technique will aid them in learning any piece. For beginning younger students, I start teaching them from a method book that best suits their learning style. Since each student is different, one method does not fit every student, and I have taught Alfred's Premier Performer, Mayron Cole Piano Method, Hal Leonard, and more. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For all students, our first meeting will be an assessment to figure out where to start! I typically have students begin by playing something they are comfortable with that they enjoy, and we go from there. I am comfortable teaching a variety of methods and like to help the student achieve their individual goals, whatever those may be. I do like to supplement most teaching method books with some kind of scale/etude regimen depending on the level, to round out their practice throughout the week between lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Recorder Euphonium

I began teaching trumpet privately 44 years ago. Over the years I have added voice, beginning piano, trombone, euphonium,and recorder to my studio. I encourage each student to practice several times a week for as long as they can. I find that some students like to practice in one sitting, whereas others prefer to practice for 10-15 minutes before taking a break and then returning. I convey to each student that working at your craft for 10,000 hours will make you an expert. Read More