Trumpet Lessons West

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Violin, Cello, Trumpet, Flute, Clarinet, Drums, Ukulele, Mallet Percussion, Orchestral Percussion, Conga, Djembe

While studying primarily with Ben Toth and Tom Kolor, she has worked with a number of other teachers specializing in different areas. This has given her a diverse knowledge in world music knowledge and playing abilities. Notable teachers include Joe Galiota (African drumming), Shane Shanahan (Middle Eastern hand drums), Rogerio Boccato (Brazilian hand drums and samba), and Dave Samuels (Caribbean Jazz). Secondary classical percussion instruction was provided by Al Lepak (timpani), John Bacon (drum set), and Michael Burritt (marimba).Though primarily a percussionist, Melanie is also an active violinist and vocalist. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium

I encourage trombone mouthpiece exercises and long tones at the beginning of my lessons as proper embouchure flexibility is important to practicing and playing better. Breathing is another aspect that I look at and always breathe by expanding the diaphragm. I use the essential elements series for trombone beginners and melodious etudes for more experienced trombone players. I believe in breaking down difficult pieces into chunks to work on in order to improve upon more difficult passages. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Trumpet, Saxophone, Clarinet, Drums, Bass Guitar, Harmonica, Ukulele, Music, Keyboard, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

During my University days, I tutored many students in academics and found that I deeply enjoyed connecting with each student and that I had a natural talent for doing do. I began teaching Music in 2006 in music studios. I teach in my own studio and in homes where I continue to do so. I am a Concert Band Director having done so for 10 years in a private school which was a great joy for me. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Trumpet, Conga, Latin Percussion, Djembe

The methods I use vary depending on the students ability and level. Hal Leonard's beginner's method for piano is one that I use for students starting piano at an elemental level. I also use Hal Leonard's essential element's method for beginner trumpet students. These methods work very well for elemental and intermediate levels. They also work for adults starting to learn how to play the instrument. I also use other methods such as the Arban's Trumpet method which covers everything from beginners to advanced levels. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Clarinet, French Horn, Piccolo

My vocal methods are rooted in bel canto style with a strong Melocchi technique using standard repertoire from art songs to stage to develop any voice in preparation for various styles of song. My goal is to help my students go from a singer to a vocalist so that they understand their instrument to be able to create any music as needed. As a piano method I draw from the FABER & FABER method books in addition to online repertoire resources from the standard piano literature varying in styles and difficulties from classical to the four chord structures used in many of today's popular songs and arrangements. Read More