Churchton Music Lessons

of all types, from rock and pop to big band to world music to orchestral to small combos and everything in between. In 2007, I embarked on a two and a half year gig with Princess Cruises as a show band drummer, and traveled the world on some of the world's most modern ships while performing on stage over 1000 times. From 2011 to 2013 I was the touring drummer for renowned Celtic/Gypsy/Americana band SCYTHIAN, a band which tours extensively and is known for their energetic live show. Other groups I have recently recorded and toured with include "Yall-ternative" fan favorites Mr. Fuzzy & The Barbarian and modern funk band The Royal Noise. In 2014 I relocated to College Park, MD and I love it!

*** Lesson Details ***
When we work together we will split lessons between the necessary mechanical aspects of the instrument and the more creative and spontaneous elements. At the beginning, I emphasize a relaxed technique and an efficiency of motion. Once this is established, we will explore the instrument through improvisation and other creativity exercises. Although drumming can be very technical, I never lose sight of the importance of groove, expression, and having fun while playing.

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studio is complete with 2 drums sets, practice pads, computers, hand percussion instruments, and other instruments for accompaniment. I am also available for lessons in your home.

*** Specialties ***
I try to split lessons between the technical elements of drumming and the more creative aspects of the instrument. I feel that you can't have one without the other and teachers need to be mindful not to lean too much to one side. I also strive to give the students practical examples in their style of interest and encourage them to apply what they learn to actual musical situations as much as possible. I have had experience in pop/rock, jazz, show music, and many traditional world-music styles.

re completed at the American University, where I majored in Communications (B.A.), and minored in Music, voice being my instrument. During my undergraduate studies, I was recruited and performed as the lead female vocalist for a Rock band that a few fellow music students had formed. While in college, I was trained in classical voice, piano, music theory, musical theater performance, and vocal pedagogy (vocal training). My vocal pedagogy studies credentialed me to become a professional vocal instructor. I began teaching voice after I earned my degree, and have been teaching private voice lessons for over ten years.

Most of my present expertise in teaching voice grew from my vocal pedagogy studies, my teaching experience which has developed over time, my own personal vocal dedication, and my training and understanding of various genres of vocal performance. My present singing career is as an inspirational singer; my vocal students encompass various genres in which I have experience, including: Inspirational, Rhythm and Blues, Jazz, Rock, Classical, as well as various degrees of popular music.

*** Audition Preparation ***
I have coached many of my students to prepare for auditions: auditions to be accepted into performing arts schools, parts in musicals and plays, joining a band or vocal ensemble, as well as auditions for televised singing shows, such as "The Voice," "Sunday's Best," "American Idol" and "The X Factor."

*** Lesson Details ***
I teach students by using the tried and true techniques I have found to be successful, and allow the student to be my guide as to which direction to take with his or her vocal training. Whether the student is a novice, a professional, or somewhere in between, each student, after obtaining the basic singing knowledge and techniques, will have a vocal training schedule geared to his or her individual needs and development. Lessons are for the most part very casual in nature, and the student’s dedication (practice, practice, practice) will dictate whether or not the lessons become stricter. A few months into the vocal instruction, students will be given the opportunity to learn more about reading music and sight singing, if he or she so chooses, as well as vocal performance techniques for singing in front of an audience. Within one year, dedicated students may also have the opportunity to show off what they have learned, and perform in front of an audience at a recital with other vocal students. Please note that my preference is to work with teens age 13 through adults of any age. I believe that younger voices need more time to develop and stand to be damaged if too much stress is put on them too soon. However, exceptions for children under 13 may be made for gifted young singers.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Home studio- entry room of home, baby grand piano, seating area, dry erase board, mirrors
Music Studio- one recording studio, seating area, classroom

*** Travel Equipment ***
If needed, I provide a portable piano keyboard, microphone with amplifier, paper handouts of lessons, etc. The student needs to have paper to take notes and a writing instrument.

*** Specialties ***
Most of my voice lesson experience has been with adults, and contemporary popular and inspirational music.

ute directed by Deborah Kent. She is also a soloist of Baltimore Choral Arts Society under the conductor Tom Hall and was recently featured in a televised concert, where she sang Mozart’s Allelujah.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Lessons occur in my living room with a beautiful baby grand piano. A waiting area is available for parents.

*** Specialties ***
Breathing Management (Talking and Singing)
Music Theory
Classical Singing
Presentation of yourself

ouse or yours.
Thanks!
Sam

methods are placed firmly in the true Italian traditions of bel canto, due to her extensive experience and knowledge in various styles, she has her own unique approach to all legitimate styles of singing that is beyond comparison, nor can her teaching style be matched.

She has a phenomenal ear and knows what to listen for and then how to direct students during the process.

Christine is a dramatic soprano and is very confident and experienced with large instruments (that are more difficult to train for various reasons). Having an extremely rare and large voice herself has given her invaluable insight toward fully understanding all other voice types and the discipline necessary to achieve efficient technique.

Many teachers can be limited in their view and teach "their technique" as opposed to helping the student develop their own technique and what works best for them.

Developing technique in a complete and effective way leads toward discovering the full capacity of our instrument without compromise or compensation.

Students should expect to learn how to use breath direction that continues to connect and blend registers, modification of placement that creates cover, internal space with an open throat and sustained low larynx by using efficient breath and support from the body.

Her methods in vocal intonation translate directly and indirectly into all styles of legitimate singing, which she coaches many varying styles and will direct student toward appropriate rep. Students will learn the full potential of their instrument under her guidance. It is her belief that technique should lead toward one sounding natural, no matter the style.

Christine offers very traditional based vocal lessons with a focus on improving technique through practical exercises and song rep designed for each student's unique vocal needs. She will offer necessary guidance and adjustments to ensure the student's continuous development.

Her goal is for her vocal students to discover their authentic voice and to find freedom in their technique and most importantly their expression as artists.

Christine is also a highly sought out piano instructor for her ability to establish an exceptional foundation in beginning piano students and those who wish to continue their studies and build upon the fundamentals. She specializes in reading skills and excellent technique.

It is her belief that having a solid foundation sets the tone for determining if a student will continue with their studies and therefore this is the most vital part of a student's development and future progress.

She teaches Russian technique, which allows for flexibility, strength and tonal beauty of musical lines. This technique can be applied to all styles of playing piano such as pop, jazz and is not limited to just the classical repertoire.

Her goal is for all of her music students to become increasingly independent as musicians to where they feel confident to teach themselves and others and to ultimately find enjoyment in the process of learning music.

Her approach helps students advance their technique, reading proficiency, including music theory and expand their artistic capabilities.

She received her music education in classical vocal performance from George Mason University and has vigiourously continued her studies in opera with Mrs. Fabiana Bravo, who studied with Luciano Pavarotti and Renata Scotto. Christine specializes in Italian for classical rep.

General styles I coach:
Opera (bel canto and verismo) classical, sacred, hymnal, traditional, jazz, r&b, folk, among other popular styles.

Christine also has an international recording career as an adult contemporary artist.

Voice lessons begin at age 14-55 and piano at age 6-any age. Please no inquires about exceptions on age or travel, I will not respond. I teach from my home only, regardless of distance. I am worth waiting for and traveling to:)

What do I expect from students who are applying:

Those who are hard working, motivated, passionate, dedicated, responsible, considerate, humble and serious about lessons and greatly improving as musicians should apply only!

I strongly believe that music is a discipline and this is how it will be approached during lessons.

I am looking for potential long term students who are willing and ready to work hard in a practical and realistic manner, regardless of age, learning needs or proficiency.

I have limited availability and I am only seeking serious students who have a positive professional attitude and will value me as a teacher. Thank you.