Piano Lessons in Haymarket, VA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

The most satisfying moment as a teacher is when a student finally "gets it", and for students, I find that lessons are the most fun when the student feels capable and not overwhelmed. I like to challenge my students and encourage them to exceed even their own expectations of their abilities. With this in mind, my overall teaching philosophy emphasizes gaining technical mastery over the student's chosen instrument, strong music reading and theory skills, along with creativity and improvisation to turn them into well rounded players who can hold their own in just about any music setting from the stage to the studio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

For 2 to 4 year old students, I use Mozart mouse series. For 4 to 6 years old students, I usually use Faber series and older students, I like to use Basien series. For violin, I start with Suzuki method and as they progress I add wolfhart, scale and solos for young violinists by barber. I also like organize group lessons so that my students have chance to polish their pieces and gave opportunity to work with other musicians. Read More

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

Mike comes from a varied and vast array of musical experiences. He has a bachelor's of music in jazz studies from UNC Wilmington and a Masters of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Maryland. A highly trained performer on classical and modern piano as well as traditional and contemporary drum set and percussion give Mike an edge in his teaching abilities. Mike has been playing drums and percussion for over 25 years, piano for around 15, and has been studying voice for almost a decade. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Knowing that all students begin at different levels and progress at different paces, I cater lessons to each individual student's capabilities. So, although I have age specific methods, I realize there are exceptions that I need to identify. I also believe that piano should be rewarding and fun, so I make sure to highlight capabilities and give ability specific goals to improve. I want my students to learn to read and understand music, not just learn to play a couple of songs! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

My goal is to develop a personal and holistic plan to teach each student. I do not believe in nor was a I a product of 'one size fits all' teaching. Music is a very personal and rewarding lifelong journey and I take special interest in developing each student's love for music and his or her instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Flute Clarinet Double Bass

Over the past 10 years I have developed different methods of teaching musical concepts so that if the lessons don't make sense the first way I explain them I can teach it from a different angle. Not everyone can learn the same way so you have to be flexible with different teaching styles. I like to make sure the student learns not only what they need to know, but also what they want to know. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Keyboard Electric Guitar

I try to make sure every lesson is upbeat, fun, high energy, and very focused. I use musical exercises, games, visuals and online media to ensure a fun atmosphere. I also implement awards to acknowledge accomplishments, particularly when a student reaches milestones or achievements that we clearly define during the beginning stages of lessons. Performance practice is another key element of my teaching style as I incorporate elements of live performances which helps the student prepare. Read More