Washington, DC Music Lessons for Special Needs Students

ssical technique, even if they specialize in contemporary singing, to help them avoid potential vocal injury.

My piano students learn to read and play music at their own pace.

My acting and spoken voice students learn to feel comfortable reading clearly, and reciting/performing on stage or other public areas.

My music theory students work one on one with me, learning basic theory (note names, durations, etc.) to advanced theory, ear training, and composition.

I am flexible and am willing to work with students of any age and level. I only require that students practice and enjoy the music they make.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Music room in home with seating for parents.

*** Specialties ***
I am a classical singer, and specialize in classical voice training. However, I also have extensive experience in other singing styles, from choral to popular, and acting/oratory. I have a minor in music theory, and have taken advanced courses in music theory pedagogy.

dridge. So I really specialize in the old rock and roll, classic rock, hard rock and metal from the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's, all the way up to today's rock, metal and pop music. I believe my years of experience are valuable in relating to each students musical interests ,desires and accomplishments on the drums. After my original band Black Widow decided to go on a long break several years ago I was offered a drumming position in a local classic rock and metal cover band. So besides teaching I have continued to satisfy my love for playing drums and performing with that band. Which gigs out on a regular monthly bases.
*** Lesson Details ***
I make sure that I find out from the get go what each and every new student likes musically and what they want to learn and how far they want to go on the drums. Then I try to tailor all the lessons to each students interests and abilities. Making sure that it's fun for them in the process. This can't be work or a chore or they won't stick with it. But I will say I do believe that every beginning student who has NEVER sat behind a kit before should know and start with the fundamentals ( the building blocks so to speak) of drumming such as holding the sticks, proper stick control and technique, and how to execute some important basic rudiments and keep good time. Also I think learning to read some drum notation is important so you know and understand what you are playing when you play it, but can teach by ear also. I can also teach double bass technique if a student is interested in that.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Works space w/two drum sets, one double-bass and one single. Instruction material (books, CDs, videos). Seating for parents.

*** Travel Equipment ***
If necessary to travel to a students home, they should have a drum kit there or at least a practice pad to get started on. I will bring sticks, a metronome if needed and the necessary instruction books for the lessons. Also willing to travel to a students home if they are just getting started and need help setting up their kit or need help tuning the drums.

*** Specialties ***
Mostly specialize in beginner to intermediate ages 7 and up teaching rock ( which includes old rock and roll from the 50's, blues), classic rock ( 60's and 70's) , hard rock and metal from the 80's all the way up to today's rock, pop and metal music. Believe it or not, it's all tied together. Let me show and teach you how.

the way.

In my view, the most interesting thing about performing music is that it is one of the few activities that engages both the left and the right brain at the same time. With that in mind, my teaching places equal importance on developing strong technique, and developing creativity. Students learn all the basics of music, and also spend time developing strong ensemble skills and strong background knowledge of style and repertoire, so that they can enjoy music in all kinds of settings, all their lives.

Knowing from experience how "boring" it can be to learn by rote, I combine technical work with fun time playing duets together, improvising, and exploring a wide variety of styles and genres of music. After all, there is no experience so motivating as hearing a new piece that you HAVE to learn to play yourself!

*** Studio Equipment ***
lessons in either living room or upstairs office; Steinway baby grand piano in living room;

*** Travel Equipment ***
I expect piano students to have daily access to either a piano or a keyboard with 88 full-sized, weighted keys. Bass or cello students must have their own bass or cello.

*** Specialties ***
classical, baroque, renaissance

imultaneously pursuing my music ambition. I studied classical guitar at American University with a student of the great Andres Segovia, and also studied jazz guitar with a former student of a prominent jazz guitarist, Pat Martino. Additionally, I sang in choirs and studied composition privately with a prominent Washington area composer and performer from Catholic University, I also began to teach at an area performing arts academy.

My most long-term experiences in music have been serving in my local church for over 30 years, either playing guitar (acoustic, electric, bass), piano, or arranging vocals in a contemporary worship band. I also started a church choir, and led both choir and small orchestra in a number of special performances. Additionally, I led congregational worship in different scenarios. During this time I also taught students of all ages guitar, piano, and music theory, and have continued to today in helping students to find their musical potential and pursue their musical ambitions.

I have recently retired from my engineering career so I can use my musical gifts in my local church and teach music as a second career. I have completed my second degree at George Mason University, and continue to play with other musicians there. More importantly, I continue to learn how to better teach others of all ages how to grow in all aspects of music-making.

*** Lesson Details ***
Having taught for many years, my approach is flexible and I can adjust my teaching style and/or curriculum to maximize the student's potential for learning at any age. I encourage disciplined practice while working to make learning music an enjoyable experience. Although I specialize in guitar styles, I also teach piano, and can include music theory, sight reading, composition, and how to improvise on any instrument. I have taught improvisation on a number of different instruments such as violin, cello, flute, and clarinet.

Here are some testimonials from present or former students/parents:

"Mr. S. is very earnest; when he gives you a compliment, you can tell he really means it. He's very patient and experienced and skilled and he is willing to take what he's teaching down to my level to help me understand it." Gregory K., age 10
Geoff is a patient and encouraging instructor. He tailored my lessons towards the skills that I needed. He provides the necessary encouragement when the long hours of practice seem impossible to sustain. I could write a book about Geoff's credentials: highly qualified is an understatement. -- Neal B.
Mr. S. is awesome at playing and teaching guitar, and he is nice and helps you. -- Michael B., age 12
œI'm sure I could learn to ˜Play Guitar Today™ using books and videos, but I think I'm on the right track with private one-on-one instruction. “ Linda H.
The guitar lessons are fun, interactive, and instructive. A great way to make learning a delight!“ Gina R., parent

*** Studio Equipment ***
Office at home w/ keyboard and guitars, white board, seating for parents

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide self-produced instructional material.
Students provide their own instrument and a folder to store instructional material.

*** Specialties ***
I teach any style of guitar, including classical and jazz. I also teach improvisation or "playing by ear" on any instrument; my experience includes piano, violin, cello, clarinet, and flute.
I'm very familiar with 60's music (e.g., Beatles)
I've performed a lot of folk music, rock music, and classical music
I've played classical guitar and in classical and jazz ensembles at weddings and other special events.

lute students and also saxophone and clarinet students that were learning the flute! This was a fun experience for me!

After graduating high school, I went on to study the flute at the University of District of Columbia. From there, I transferred to American University and then finally graduated from Full Sail University. Throughout this journey I never stopped teaching, tutoring, and mentoring all ages on flute playing and technique!

As a teacher, I believe that every student is an individual. I believe we all have a unique way of learning. It's my mission to teach you in the best way that works for you. In the past, I have dealt with the "one for all" approach to teaching and I can honestly say, this method doesn't always work. For this reason, as a teacher, I promise to work with you to find which way works best for you instead of forcing you to conform to the way I have learned. We will work on building a strong foundation to flute playing, music theory, and music performance. We will work on proper technique to flute playing, flute maintenance, and I will do my best to help you explore all flute related topics you may have interest in.

Just like you, I am also a student too! I believe us teachers are always learning and growing. If you would like to go on this learning journey together message me to connect!