Music Lessons in West Bowie, MD

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I find that the most important part of studying an instrument is that the student gains an appreciation of music. Therefore, I make it an important part of my lessons to work on at least one thing that student is particularly interested in. I find that praising students often even when they make small gains is good encouragement and serves to further encourage them to play well and enjoy what they play. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Classical Guitar

Since I'm primarily a Classical Guitar player, I emphasize the technique required for it, which is mainly finger-style. My primary teaching method is derived from Aaron Shearer, which many famous guitarists have used, including the well known Manuel Barrueco. The main instruction book is written by Aaron Shearer, which teaches classical guitar technique and standard music notation sight reading, but I'm also flexible. If I see a student would prefer to strum and accompany their own or others singing, I teach from Hal Leonard's Complete Guitar Method book. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium

I am originally from Memphis, TN, but I grew up in the small college town of Auburn, AL. I now reside in Northern Virginia and am a Trombone Instrumentalist in the Quantico Marine Corps Band. In the band, I perform regularly in military ceremonies, as well as concert bands, brass bands, and brass quintets. Before joining the Marine Corps, I studied with Dr. Matthew Wood of Auburn University. After my completion of Marine Corps Recruit Training and Marine Combat Training, I attended the Marine Detachment Naval School of Music. Read More

Instruments: Drums Latin Percussion

A custom lesson plan will be developed for each student. Reading, technique, play along with songs the student is interested in learning. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

The basics for any instrument are extremely important. For trumpet learning about breathing, how to use your fingers to more easily change notes, how to stand properly, etc. All exercises to help these are very important. Other instruments have their own specific basics which are equally important. While these technical aspects of playing instruments are vital to growing on any instrument, the goal of playing an instrument is obviously to play music. Read More

Instruments: Piano

It's most rewarding when my student's display those "ah ha!" moments during lessons. It shows me that they not only understand the material, but that they care about what it is they are learning by striving to improve. I also believe it's important for them to feel that what they are participating in is a worthwhile activity that is not only fun but rewarding to explore. Also making sure they recognize the importance of practice by pointing out how their improvements are the result of their hard work. Read More