Music Lessons in Smithsburg, DC

Instruments: Saxophone Music

As mentioned above, my teaching methods are a mixture of discovery and practice that may or may not use formal books and methods. The young student may prefer the use of technology such as Ipads and laptops. Some others may prefer to learn through paper books and methods. I provide the student with the choice of using many electronic tools for improving his learning. Some students prefer a more relaxed, free way of learning. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Every voice is unique and special.  I work hard to help each student find his or her own voice.  The environment I strive for is created by a collaborative and individualized effort. As an instructor, listening to the needs of each student is the key to finding an approach best suited for their needs. One must listen to their singing as well as how they communicate their understanding of their own instrument. 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 Trumpet Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Music Keyboard

My formal teaching experience began at East Carolina University in my undergraduate years. I had the opportunity to work as an instructor for the Jazz Track at the ECU Summer Music Camp for four years before I moved on to graduate school at Peabody Conservatory. Additionally I've taught many private lessons in North Carolina and York Pennsylvania. I am proud to say my students have received honors including first chair in NCMEA All-District Jazz Ensemble as well as the ECU School of Music Scholarship. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium

In my teaching, I like to have a strong focus in fundamentals while still fostering an enjoyable and entertaining lesson atmosphere. A solid basis is fundamentals will go strides in the student’s confidence. A well balanced medium between fundamentals and fun and creative learning is where I like to focus my teaching philosophy. I use this balance as a guideline to help my students find joy and happiness in learning their instrument as well as music in general. Read More