Voice Lessons in Russett, MD

Instruments: Voice

My name is James and I am an operatic tenor and voice teacher based in Northern Virginia. I most recently graduated from the AJ Fletcher Opera Institute at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and hold a Master's degree in Opera Performance from the Maryland Opera Studio at the University of Maryland and a Bachlor's degree in Voice Performance from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Read More

Instruments: Voice Flute

What I want is to nurture a life long love and appreciation of music. Every student is going to be at a different level, and have their own strengths and weaknesses. I prefer to get to know my students and their taste in music, before imposing any sort of practice regimen. Whats important is that students enjoy and are fulfilled by their lessons, not overwhelmed (because then they dont practice!). 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

I believe making music fun can keep students motivated and improve their skills. When you love music, you are more motivated to improve. I also believe music is based on a lot of techniques. In order to express your feeling through music and have more fun, you will need to practice to mature the technique. Practice makes perfect!!! I believe that everyone is unique. I encourage my students, but insist that they need to learn something new every lesson so they can get closer to their goals. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice

Aestethics or "beauty" of the voice is subjective. In this method we favor the voice health. The ability to sing without fatigue. The confidence that we can trust in our instrument. The result of this work is after all a "beautiful" sound. And it will sound beautiful for every listener. "The acoustical result of a healthy sound is a beautiful sound. And we will agree in any culture that its beautiful because its an instinct aesthetic." (Eugene Rabine) The method itself comprehends 4 parts: 1) a theory about the functional system (how the instrument works) 2) a theory about the sensomotorial system (how one person learns a sensomotorial activity) And based on those 2 theories: 3) a specific Pedagogy 4) a specific Didactic I don't want to get too "technical" in this section, you're free to ask me if you have further questions about these aspect. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I am committed to helping each student reach his or her musical potential, and believe that this should be a fun-filled process. While I am a strong proponent of the importance of proper technique and form, I also strive to make sure that the artistry is never lost in the learning experience. I encourage students to set goals and to maintain a practice and study plan that enables them to achieve those goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar

It is important that each student progresses at his or her own pace.  I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson.  Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager tolearn more. By trying to find out what imspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More