Columbia, MD Music Performance Lessons

s and colleges. I am also a judge in the Young Artist Award in Maryland. In addition, I have received two White House awards for my performances at the White House, I am also a member of Psi Chi International Honor Society.

Music has been an important part of my life. It represents so much that is good in life and I do my best to communicate this to my students. I am training my students not just to be musicians but to love music for life.

*** Lesson Details ***
I treat each student as an individual since everyone is different. For some I might use a traditional approach, some just the Suzuki approach and others a combination of techniques. Whatever produces the best results. My goal is not to make strictly classical musicians but to train students to love music and carry this love throughout life. My repertoire consists of everything including traditional, Suzuki, Disney, Showtunes, etc. I have taken students to perform little concerts at the White House, schools, hospitals and concert halls to get the real feel of performing. I view lessons as a three way relationship between myself, the student and the parent so that the parent is not left out. I even have a small group called Musical Magic which incorporates magic into music. I feel I am laid back but am able to accomplish my goal through positive reinforcement. Every child or student wants to feel good about his/her playing. If you believe in yourself, anything is possible. If you want online lessons, please contact me through Take Lessons since I have additional availability to teach online. In the past six months my students have performed for the National Humane Society at their animal ball, a multi teacher recital on a local stage, and just two weeks ago seven of them performed at Strathmore. This summer I have two more concerts planned. Coming up will be an all instrument graduation with several other teachers where students receive medals for their performances. No student is required to perform but if they want to the opportunity is there. All students are required to have an instrument prior to beginning lessons. If students need to rent a violin, I will provide you with the name of a violin dealer that both rents and sells string instruments. Piano students must have a piano or keyboard.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I teach at home and have both a grand piano and electric keyboard in addition to a harp and violin.

*** Travel Equipment ***
When my students have to travel to perform, I make sure they have everything they need.

*** Specialties ***
Traditional and Suzuki approaches for both violin and piano. I also teach children with learning disabilities.and have extensive summer programs to help students with auditions for youth orchestras and school orchestras.

is unique and individualized to each student. I set personalized goals to make every lesson a success, and I push my students to get the most out of themselves just like I do myself. I'm always enthusiastic and humor driven to create a personable learning environment for students of any age. Music is my life, and I'm so thrilled to have the opportunity to share my greatest passion with the hope that my students, too, will fall in love with music!

*** Lesson Details ***
My lesson environment is laid back and stress-free. I like my students to feel inspired and encouraged as they begin or continue their music education. I introduce fun and innovative ways to build students' musicianship and creativity while retaining classical methods to develop strong technique and proper performance and practice habits.

For beginners, we'll be exploring the basics of either piano, or voice, while focusing on proper technique, basic theory, and a solid skill set. Within 3-6 months, my students are able to read music and understand the language of it.

For intermediate-advanced, we'll focus on building musicianship and skill sets by furthering studies in music theory, varying styles of repertoire, proper techniques that will greatly improve your piano and/or voice abilities, songwriting, improvisation, and live performance skills.

I ask that my students come prepared to every lesson with the motivation and commitment to learn something new each week! Lessons are a fun and creative way to discover yourself as an artist and a person, so let's get started!!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Kawai CN25 Upright Electric Piano, 13" MacBook Pro and iPad mini (Apple), A-Audio Elite HD Headsphones, BeatsStudio Studio Headphones (beats by dr. dre) and G900DX Studio Headphones (Gear One).

wed by my teaching methods:

My teaching methods fall into these four categories: (D.A.D.E.)
• Discovery- Gathering relevant and resourceful information of voice functionality.
• Application- Putting technical skills to use and knowledge of when to use them.
• Development- Process learning- Changes cause/effects and as a result, progress, production, and promise. “Trust the process.”
• Execute- To bring forth, carry out, and perform!

Process teaching and learning is a specific teaching style that not only empowers the students to feel confident about their craft, it also gives the students useful skills that can be applied to REAL "time-life" scenarios. This reinforcement confirms that the students have indeed learned what they've hired me for and more.

By signing up for voice lessons with Jackson, you will become a V.I.P. member. What is a VIP member? V.I.P. members have the inside opportunities to learn “singer secrets!” (Vowels, Interpretations and Pept-talk).
• Vowels- Two different approaches: Spoken and Sung
• Interpretation- A stylistic approach that best explains or makes sense of. Your explanation for your creativeness.
• P.E.P.T.-Talk (Details in your lesson)

Note:
1. The most important thing for singers/musicians/language students is that they train their ears. Why? Because 90% of what you'll learn is by what you recall from hearing/listening.
2. ENVIRONMENT- is key to your learning. It's important for you to surround yourself around the very things that you're learning.

Once you sign up, you’ll receive a questionnaire. The information you provide is vital because it shapes and designs your learning curriculum.

Bio: From Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Born October 15th, 1974) is an American singer, songwriter, arranger, and producer. Notable instruments are the piano and percussion. Jackson is one of Washington, DC’s prominent male vocalists. His voice is recognized as; beautiful light lyrical-pure tone, fine diction, long phrasing and an extended high range. He is also known for his work within the concert/recital repertoires around the Washington, DC Metropolitan areas and performances with the Symphonic Orchestra of Northern Virginia, Jeff Dokken, conductor.

Jackson credits himself as a Pop Inspirational singer. “Music to touch, move, and inspire.”- Jackson C.
Jackson has experience working with youth and adults in churches, and privately. He has taught music and accompanied the production "KIDS" at the Kelsie Collie Children's Musical Experience.
His music education studies hail from; University of the District of Columbia,- Washington, DC, Oberlin Conservatory under Richard Miller,- Oberlin, OH, and Shenandoah University Conservatory under Dr. Kathryn Green,- Winchester, VA with an emphasis in Voice Pedagogy (CCM) Contemporary Commercial Music. His professional music career began (Spring 2009) in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area. Jackson is fortunate to have had a career built on “word of mouth” via his fans and supporters. Often, he is called upon to sing for; weddings, funerals, private parties, churches, recitals etc. Words and phrases that best describe Jackson's vocal performances are: (G.R.I.P.) Graceful, Refreshing, Inspiring, and Powerful.

*** Specialties ***
Pop, Inspirational, Gospel, Rhythm & Blues (R&B), Classical, Contemporary Jazz, some musical theater.

"Trust the process! Everything in life began and ends with a process."- B. Jackson Caesar

Languages: (English & Spanish)
My interest in the Hispanic language, its apparatus, style/approach, and culture as it pertains to the ever growing population and bilingualism around the Americas. My desire is to engage the students in the discovery and appreciation of the lingual- romantic tongues.

Spanish:
Countries visited; Mexico and Peru.
I can guarantee that within a few months you'll feel confident and sure that you're conversation- ready to Speak Spanish. Therefore, if you're preparing a trip to a Spanish speaking country, you’ll find Peruvian Castellano pronunciation straightforward and as good as any other, with few of the dropped letters or peculiarities found in some other countries.

English (As a second language)
I enjoy helping others learn the complexities of the English language. English is indeed a hard tongue to grasp however; it’s not difficult once you understand its secrets. (Phonetic learning)

Acting Coach: I advocate a dynamic variety of approaches to your learning styles and trends. My interest is in the study of voice production; functionality, style/approach, health, and stage presence and thus, my students are empowered with useful tools to reach their goals, confront and overcome common oppositions.

Public Speaking: Like that of the other subjects, my primary focus is to give you fundamental skills of interpretation. There are seven interpretation techniques that are used to empower and influence not only the speaker, but even your audience. The seven interpretative techniques can be applied to these six types of speeches: Narrative, Descriptive, Expository, Persuasive, Informative, and Social groups. You will also learn stage presence, and effective leadership skills. By the end of this course, you’ll not only have the confidence, you’ll have the command and compassion to lead.

assical guitar ensemble for 5 semesters. My experience includes playing in jazz ensembles, doing solo guitar music at weddings and art galleries, playing in classical guitar quartets, and active composition and recording of my original work on the guitar. You can expect all of this experience and knowledge to come together in a musically fascinating and motivating way that will fill your life with the joys of being able to express yourself musically if you are willing to give the time and effort to do so. Also...Check out my video and music!

*** Lesson Details ***
My number one goal is to cultivate your desire and passion for musical expression by providing a friendly and inspiring environment in which to experience the joy and beauty of music! You can learn the songs you have always wanted to play and even learn to write your own music! My overall teaching philosophy includes three basic areas of knowledge which work together to form a well educated guitarist. The first area is technical knowledge. The student will be taught to physically utilize the instrument in an efficient and effective way in order to maximize learning progress and musical potential. The second area is in theoretical knowledge which includes reading both music notation and tablature (tablature is an alternative form of written guitar music that is very easy to read). This also includes understanding music theory as it applies to the guitar, and full knowledge of the musical possibilities on the guitar. The third area, my favorite area, is Practical knowledge which includes learning songs by other artists to expand the student'€™s understanding of how other musicians use the instrument (the students choose these songs based on what they like). You will also expand your practical knowledge by directly applying the theoretical knowledge that you have learned. This is done by composing your own music in a creative and original way. I am also a vocalist and am able to coach my students the basics of the voice and how to use the voice and guitar at the same time. As a teacher I strive for excellence in my students by teaching them all that they need to be a well educated guitarist. I will actively and joyfully peruse your interests by tailoring the curriculum to focus on the music that the you love and have a passion for.

I provide my own music curriculum that has been honed over time through my experience as a private teacher. The books that I use will generally differ according to your desires and interests but there are two books that I use for beginners:

1. Mel Bay Modern Guitar Method Grade 1 (this is for beginners in music reading).
2. Solo Guitar Playing Volume 1 (this is for beginners in music reading who are interested in classical training).

After 3 to 6 months of study with me, you will have been taught to read musical notation, have a basic knowledge of chords, and have most of the 5 major scale shapes memorized. You will have learned to pick and strum confidently. Most importantly, you will have learned 3 or 4 songs of your choosing so that you can see the fruit of your musical work and experience the joy of musical expression. (for these results students must be willing to practice for the necessary amount of time: 20-30 minutes a day)

*** Studio Equipment ***
Comfortable quiet room. Recording equipment. Internet musical resources. Guitars, Guitar effects, amps, and hardware. I provide my personally developed teaching material to you. I expect you, as a student, to bring a guitar, picks and a tuner.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide my personally developed teaching material to you. I bring cables and equipment to adapt my guitar to an amp you may have. I also bring maintenance equipment in case I need to work on my guitar or yours. I expect you, as a student, to have a guitar, picks and a tuner. If you are taking electric guitar it is ideal that you have an amp. I also expect you to buy the necessary books. I bring my computer in order to have an internet source and an audio source. I have provided guitars and strings (if one broke during the lesson) in the past to students who are lacking them.

*** Specialties ***
Various Electric Guitar Styles such as Rock, Blues and Jazz harmony; I teach Classical and Acoustic Guitar, Music Theory, Improvisation, Music composition and Finger style.

y and excitement into each lesson as possible. Even if there are no signs of progress, the most important thing is to encourage the student because getting better at your instrument is exponential and will usually start off sluggish.

My first steps into getting to know the student better is to begin with having them choose a style of music that they like and play along with some of their favorite artists, in order for them to loosen up and get excited for learning. When I feel the student is fully comfortable and ready to begin our learning process, I will also have them play along with a style more complex, or out of their comfort zone, if you will. This establishes a sub conscious goal that they will want to reach every time they pick up their instrument which result in long-term commitment, respect and understanding of music.

*** Lesson Details ***
Before taking lessons with me, there are only 2 things you need to know:

.You are REQUIRED to express your creative side with 100% honesty, there will be no holding back in creativity in my classroom!

.Keep in my that though we want you to be as open as possible, I will often have strict guidelines for the benefit of your musicianship. It may seem like I may push you sometimes and it may seem to get boring and pointless.. but your musicianship will improvement exponentially with each lesson!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Drums/Percussion:

.Roland TD-9 Electronic Drumset
.DW-4 piece Acoustic Drumset
.Pearl 6 piece Acoustic Drumset
.Bongos
.Remo Roto Toms

Audio Production:

.General DAW's (Audio Software)
.Komplete 8 Ultimate
.M-Audio M-Box Interface
.Ibanez Electric Guitar
.2 Acoustic Guitars
.Midi Controller/Interface
.Baby Blue Bottle Microphone
.2 KRK 6's Studio Monitors

w/ sound proof insulated room to amplify the clearest sound possible.

*** Specialties ***
My drumming personality derives from Funk, Jazz, Hip Hop, Metal, Rock, Electronic and Pop. I have extensive live performance experience in such genres.

state).

I also have an extensive professional and personal background in meditation (10 years), astrology (5 years) and healing (particularly Reiki, 4 years). I am very interested in the intersection between a healing/mindfulness-awareness approach and singing/playing piano.

BA of Music, she has studied under renowned Romanian soprano, Virginia Zeani, Met Opera baritone Mark Oswald, and internationally acclaimed bel canto pedagogue Joan Patenaude-Yarnell. She is also a disciple of Bulgarian piano virtuoso Tzvetan Konstantinov. Susanna serves on the board of the The International Master Institute of Music "Leopold Godowsky", Inc.

Susanna instructs on proper intercostal support and the alignment of the vowels is emphasized to create long, seamless lines. Support is accompanied by a mixing of the registers to promote even vocal resonance up and down the scale. A wide range of literature may be explored, including opera, lieder, oratorio, and classical musical theatre in all voice types.

Susanna now serves as President/CEO of her own private company here in Washington, DC and as a board member of the The International Master Institute of Music "Leopold Godowsky" in McLean, VA. She currently resides in Dupont Circle.

--Student Consultations--
Accepting new students for classical and musical theater genres only. Students should have the availability to practice 5-7 days per week, 60 mins per day. For your consultation, please either bring a piece from the classical voice repertoire or a piece of classical musical theater. Lessons should be recorded (iPhone is fine).

--M Institute for the Arts (Georgetown) Location--
Baby Grand Piano
Music Stand
Large Room
Professional Recording Equipment
Music Library

-Dupont Circle Location-
Electric Piano
Large Room
5 Min Walk from Dupont Circle Metro

--Recitals/Performances--
Available.

--Ages Accepted--
A child's voice should be mature enough to safely embark on the rigors classical training. Please feel free to schedule a consultation to see if your child is ready for lessons.

--Scheduling--
I do not update my TakeLessons scheduler, as I have students at various different studios, including my own conservatory in Georgetown. I have my own scheduler outside of TakeLessons. Please select your first-choice time slot on TakeLessons and we will go from there!

udent's goals and interests. With younger students, Rachel communicates regularly with parents so they can work together to get the most out of lessons!

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.

have fun!

Sarah believes it's never too young to start an instrument, and especially enjoys working with beginner adults.