Voice Lessons in Bristow, VA

Instruments: Voice

I begin with determining the objectives of my student. For example, a student may want to work on increasing his/her range, improving tone, learning techniques for a certain style, or may want to establish a repertoire of songs or “90-second cuts” for an audition. With that information, I design a program to meet these objectives. We proceed at a comfortable pace and monitor the goals and objectives often. My teaching style is relaxed and fun but devoted to working on proper vocal technique and confidence building. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Nothing is more rewarding than witnessing my students learn at their own pace, lessons are not to be rushed and homework is not to be treated carelessly. Understanding and being able to interpret the history of a piece is just as important and learning it, how are you to convince an audience without knowing it for yourself? I encourage this by setting realistic and well obtainable goals. Recognition for accomplishments is definitely a helping tool as well as fuel for progress of vocal abilities. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Keyboard

I have been teaching students since the mid 1970's and have found a few key ingredients. First ... I need to be engaged as a representative of the craft ... excited about music and ... most importantly ... excited about the fact that the student is about to take on this new and / or continuing endeavor! If the student feels that you are genuinely there for them, a 'comfort zone' is created for the student ... now there is an environment in which much production can be achieved ... and the student will be able to thrive! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

I customize the curriculum and repertory for each of my students based on their personal goals, which we will discuss in the first lessons. Do you want to play for yourself or to perform publicly? What kinds of repertory appeal to you and how much time do you have to practice? From there we will create a plan that best meets these goals. For beginners, this will include a method book (I often use Faber Piano Adventures for young beginners and Alfred Adult-In-One methods) to get you started. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Djembe

During his time in school, Mike performed in a number of different groups. He has played in situations as varied as Orchestra, Big-band, African Drum Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Combo Jazz Groups, Gamelan Orchestra, Afro-Cuban Ensembles, and Mallet Ensembles. He also performed in freelance rock, jazz, jam, and improvisational groups. Mike began playing at age 7 on both piano and drums and started performing at age 14. Later he studied voice in college and picked up the banjo as another instrument to have in his repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Voice Music

There are many different methods and styles to teach voice, but there are some basic fundamentals to good vocal technique and so for me its always important to start with a few basic warm ups, which normally includes simple vocal exercises such as scales and/or arpeggios, as well as working on good breathing. Its important for me to know what the student is interested and what they want to get out of the lessons, and specifically what repertoire they would like to work on, and from there we can work on a plan moving forward. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

My goal is to develop a personal and holistic plan to teach each student. I do not believe in nor was a I a product of 'one size fits all' teaching. Music is a very personal and rewarding lifelong journey and I take special interest in developing each student's love for music and his or her instrument. Read More