Piano Lessons in The Plains, VA

Instruments: Piano Trombone

Trombone: Practice, practice, practice! The trombone is an extremely unforgiving instrument and this is why the words practice need to be repeated many times every lesson. The student needs to understand that in order to get any enjoyment out of playing the trombone they need to practice regularly. Once the student has a regular practice schedule, then their sound will improve and they will enjoy playing. There can be almost no progress at all until the student finds regular practice time to work on their trombone exercises. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Double Bass Keyboard

I am a professional classical bassist turned singer/songwriter - I also teach and play cello and general music. For over a decade I have performed with orchestras, chamber ensembles, bands, duets, trios, solo, etc... as well as teaching students of a variety of instruments and ages. Besides bass, I have taught piano, cello, pop vocals, ensemble skills, music theory, music production, and coached based on individual projects. I have played with the National Symphony at the Kennedy Center, in Russia, and at Carnegie Hall as a substitute musician as well as Quintango, a tango group based out of Alexandria, VA. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginners, I start with the basics - proper posture and hand position, introduction to the keyboard and note recognition. In my experience, the Faber series is the most widely followed to get students started on their musical journey. As students progress, I ensure that they develop a repertoire that consists of at least 3 songs. I emphasize the importance of technical exercises that begin with 5 finger scales and advance to proper octave scales. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

My teaching style is very analytical yet engaging! I try to establish a good relationship before pushing a student. At that point I will ask the student to play to the best of his/her ability. I teach in a style that helps children isolate problem areas, so that they can practice specific excerpts they are struggling with. I also do a lot of ear training and music theory to ensure that students are obtaining well-rounded musical skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Recorder

Methods are tailored around the individual needs and goals of the student. Fundamentals in music theory are balanced with repertoire and lessons focus on developing practice skills that the student can use outside the lesson. The Suzuki method is ideal for beginning flute students, particularly young students. This approach allows students to become comfortable holding the instrument, producing a solid tone, and training the ear, before introducing notation. For beginning pianists, the Bastien series works well in terms of breaking down repertoire into manageable pieces and marking students' progress in early study. Read More