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One of my greatest joys is teaching and sharing my love of music. Since graduating from Norfolk State University in 2009 with a degree in music education, my career has been devoted to teaching elementary and early childhood music as well as private clarinet and bassoon lessons. Originally from the Tidewater area in Virginia, I have had the opportunity to perform with ensembles such as the Tidewater Winds Concert Band and the Virginia Beach Symphony. I have also performed locally with the Category Five Wind Ensemble.
I have had the pleasure of teaching music and private lessons to elementary and primary aged children for 10 years. I have also worked with high school and middle school band students in preparation for festivals and other countywide auditions as well as college auditions. More specifically, I have been teaching in-home private bassoon and clarinet lessons in the Washington metro area for four years. Working one-on-one with students of all ages affords me the opportunity to get to know my students and to become even more invested in their success.
For beginner clarinet and bassoon students, I usually start with either the Standard of Excellence or Accent on Achievement method books. More specifically for intermediate or more advanced students I use the J. Weissenborn Method for Bassoon and the H. Klose Method for Clarinet. Once students have progressed, at-level solo repertoire is introduced. I also try to find or write music that is current in order to spark and keep interest in their chosen instrument and to keep students engaged regardless of their ability.
I thoroughly enjoy teaching and I want my students to enjoy learning. I try to keep lessons fun and relaxed while maintaining high, yet reachable expectations. Helping students determine and envision the kind of musician they would like to become aids in providing a significant foundation for learning. Students must move at their own pace and getting to know the student and their needs is one of my top priorities. Each student's lesson and music selection is catered to their particular needs and interests.
Cierra has been teaching my daughter bassoon for 3 years so far and she has been great. She reviews her school music and also introduces additional pieces that she feels will help her development and understanding. She works with patience and humor in a way that makes the lesson enjoyable as well as productive for my daughter and it’s clear that she enjoys what she’s doing. In my daughter’s words: “She helps you through the difficult parts so you can understand your music better and she’s fun to work with, too!” She has improved significantly working with Cierra. Cierra has also been incredibly flexible when schedule conflicts come up. She’s a wonderful teacher and mentor for my daughter, I highly recommend her!!
Mrs Cierra G. is a phenomenal educator. She has the gifted ability to musically share what each student needs.