Trombone Lessons in Clifton, 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 Trumpet Trombone Bass Guitar Synthesizer Euphonium Tuba Keyboard

I have an arsenal of books and teaching techniques that will give the student the best chance at successful learning. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

For beginning students, I typically work out of basic method books used in band classes, like the Standard of Excellence series. With more experienced students, I utilize standard brass methods, such as the Arban Complete Trombone Method, the Bordogni/Rochut Melodious Etudes, and the Kopprasch 60 Selected Studies. With all of my students, I customize a daily fundamentals routine tailored to their specific needs with various exercises to help solidify each student's technical fluency. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trombone Bass Guitar

Music has been a large part of my since I was a child, to include teaching. I started on trombone, moved to guitar, and found my real passion in electric bass. While I have led many careers in my life (construction, marketing, program management) music has always been a consistent side project. I have been fortunate enough to play and record with some well-known artists, and tour the US and UK. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium

For beginner students use the Hal Leonard Essential Elements 2000 method books. These books offer a very detailed and easy fundamental based method to start beginners off on the right foot. These books also utilize simple and recognizable melodies to aid in the student’s learning. For adults, I like to use the Rubank Methods, starting with the Rubank Elementary Method. These books provide a very strong focus in fundamentals for those who are slightly more advanced. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone

It is my belief that there are three components to learning and improving at music: skill and technique, musical creativity, and, most importantly, the genuine desire to learn and play music. An appetite and aspiration to learn is what molded me into the musician I am today, and I consider it to be the most valuable asset to any student. I motivate students to practice, but also encourage them to take time to listen and appreciate all forms of music, so that they may better understand and enjoy it. Read More

Instruments: Trombone

Dan received his Bachelors Degree in Trombone Performance from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. He credits his time at Baylor University for teaching him the value of a supportive and nurturing environment balanced with hard work and dedication. Dan has had the unique opportunity to be able to study with a long list of great trombonists across the nation. His primary teachers include Brent Phillips (Marine Band/Baylor University), John Rojak (American Brass Quintet/Juilliard), and Matthew Guilford (National Symphony Orchestra). Read More