Music Lessons in Somerville, VA

Instruments: Cello

I have been lucky to study with renowned teachers at top music schools while traveling to music festivals around the world to play with interesting musicians in a great variety of cultures and styles. For me, the the experience of music has no boundries between concert halls, teaching studios, street corners, galleries, or artistic genres. I am eager to share with my students the wealth of possibilities of sound, art, and collaboration on the cello while providing a solid physical mastery of the instrument which enables beginning to advanced students the opportunity and flexibility to take their music to varied genres and major music schools. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching guitar for 7 years. I began teaching when I was 17 years old at Maley's Music in Arlington, Virginia. I had the opportunity to teach students of all ages, from very young to adult students. It was here that I developed my passion for teaching. I continued teaching regularly throughout my time at Oberlin Conservatory. Each semester, I taught 4 college students who were taking guitar lessons for academic credit. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time for school years, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 17 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

There is no set method that works for each student. For young children that are just beginning, I like to start them with the Bastien Piano Basics or Piano Adventures series, but I will supplement these books with other material depending on the student's needs. I like to give beginner students little pieces that will help them understand the fundamentals of music in context so that they are still making music while they learn the basics - this keeps them from getting bored! Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

For beginning elementary and middle school students I usually use Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once my student has a working knowledge of the fundamentals, I introduce music that will build confidence and keep the student's interest. Although I am using a method book, it is just a guide. Along the way, I may supplement the book with other exercises to work on specific techniques. For adults, I first assess my student's skill level, and we talk about goals and a realistic practice schedule. 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