Trumpet Lessons in Palo Alto, CA

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I first began taking private students in the 1990s, and continued to teach privately through my undergraduate years in the early 2000s. Though I stopped for some time to pursue artistic and professional ventures in music, I recently returned to the teaching realm, and am exciting to take on new students. In addition to private brass lessons, I have taught music in public schools through various non-profits and, above all, enjoy the light that comes on in a student's eyes when he/she "gets it." It is why I do what I do. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

Acknowledging accomplishments is an ideal way to motivate a student to improve. While critiquing a student's weaknesses is something a teacher should do, celebrating the positive moments in playing can help engrave good habits. Whether you are trying to learn for fun or trying to get into the college of dreams for music, I am able to cater my teaching style to the needs of the student and this makes music fun for everyone! Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Music Keyboard

My teaching method is centered around consitent practice and the idea that a student's practice time should be both fun and efficient. I work closely with my students to learn their musical interests and then establish their musical goals. With those goals in mind, we create a daily practice routine that is both fun, efficient, and designed specifically for that student, with their strengths and weaknesses taken into account. The materials used in these practice routines are pulled from my own personal library of music books, all of which I have worked through and mastered. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

In my lessons, I advocate for a strong emphasis on tone and technique. Getting these aspects of trumpet playing down are extremely important as the trumpet is a very physically demanding instrument. I have many different levels of method books to work from, but one of the biggest and most comprehensive is the Arban's book. It has exercises ranging from the most basic tone production, to very advanced tonguing and lip slur exercises and is great for students of all levels. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Drums Ukulele Euphonium French Horn Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I believe encouragement is the best way to help a student succeed. I believe music lessons should be enjoyable and try to make them fun. But even though we have fun, we still have to play the best we can and get the work done. I try to inspire my students to enjoy music, not force them. I believe music should be fun and engaging and not just "work" or a "Requirement". Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet

So I endeavor to strive first for great sound. 2. Counting: Furthermore, horn players play in horn sections about 90% of the time. Therefore, it is critical that the horn player count extremely accurate so that the section is tight. Also, on live shows or recording sessions, accuracy and execution is imperative for a good performance. So I lay a counting foundation and delve deeply into the subject. Sound and Counting, then everything else. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba Music

I am rigorous and expect my students to do their best, but I'm also patient, understanding and forgiving. I strive to have my students play their notes correctly, and I go beyond that to instruct them in the style in which a piece is to be played. I try to instill confidence in my students, to encourage their muse, and to point them to success in their musical endeavors. I also like to play along with my students as a duet partner, and give them fun music to play. Read More