Trumpet Lessons West

Instruments: Trumpet

For beginner students, I will start by first teaching them the basic techniques of trumpet playing(i.e. proper breathing, posture, instrument holding, and buzzing techniques). After going through the basic techniques of trumpet playing, I will have my student work out the Sound Innovations for Concert Band method book. Once my student completely learns the first Sound Innovation method book and gets a grasp over the fundamentals of trumpet playing, I will introduce them to trumpet exercise books such as the Vizzutti, Arbans, and Clarke books among others to build upon the fundamental techniques that they have already developed. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Violin, Cello, Viola, Trumpet, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Drums, Bass Guitar, Synthesizer, Harmonica, Recorder, Electric Violin, Fiddle, Piccolo, Oboe, English Horn, Keyboard

I never yell or scold. I can keep the boat on even keel, and not sink to drama. I am warm but firm about requiring hard work on improving. My teachers include some of the world's greatest professors at prestigious Universities. My teaching is world class as you they say. I am familiar with the textbook techniques handed down for centuries, so you will be learning the tried and true technique that the world's best musicians use. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Trumpet, Trombone, Synthesizer, Recorder, Euphonium, French Horn, Music, Keyboard

For the younger beginning students, I usually start with Alfred's Beginning Piano Series. Once the student has a grasp of the fundementals, I will begin introducing major and minor scales as well as solo repertoire. For my adult students I will see their level of ability and musical interests, find appropriate material based on their taste and formulate the lesson to include fun stuff as well as build proper mechanics.  For my horn lessons depending on the skill level I being with Essential Elements or the Arban book and build from there incorporating solos of the greats, and songs that they want to learn to play. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

My main goal is to make playing the trumpet fun. I will put music making the at the forefront of each lesson. It is important is to teach and reinforce the fundamentals of trumpet playing so that music making can be a natural process. This style of teaching is applicable at all levels. I will listen to and analyze each students technical and musical ability and tailor a weekly practice regiment that is both efficient and effective. Read More

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