Ironsides, MD Flute Lessons

My teaching experience includes students between the ages of 8 and 70. I believe in the individual approach and decide what music books and methods to use and recommend after the first few lessons with the student. Playing the flute is a great skill that lets you appreciate and express music. It also enhances your focus and the quickness of your mind since you think of a few things simultaneously while playing. For fun you can play your favorite song, compose one or play duets with your teacher.

As a devoted instructor, I have a passion for teaching students of all levels. I use knowledge I learned from my flute professors and create a teaching style based on each of my students' individual needs. I value the student being able to create their own ideas and suggestions.

I cover topics from developing proper form to producing a beautiful tone, creating own musical ideas, performing with self-confidence, developing a helpful warm-up, and preparing for an audition.

I have a Bachelor's Degree in music. I have more than 9 years of experience teaching students music both as a private instructor. I want to provide you with a supportive environment where you can learn and reach your potential just like I have done in the past with former students. I believe this is crucial in order for learning to happen.

Let's work hard together to improve!

I have been playing flute professionally for over six years. My first performance was a production of "Chicago," and it opened up opportunities to play multiple woodwinds in all kinds of contexts.
I am excited to share my passion for this beautiful instrument!

Whether you're just beginning or an advanced player, each lesson will be tailored to the needs of the individual student. We'll focus on fundamentals of flute playing and musicianship, along with applied theory and history. If there is a specific area you would like to focus on, please let me know!

Jonathan is Artist-in-Residence at American University in Washington, DC and teaches flute at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, VA. He performs with the Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra and other ensembles in the Washington DC area. Jonathan lives in Arlington with his wife, cellist Amy , and daughter Sarah.

He maintains an active teaching studio at his home. He has been principal flutist of the Mexico City Philharmonic, and has made recordings for NPR and the Discovery Channel. An active chamber musician and soloist, he has been featured at the Phillips Collection in Washington, DC; as soloist with the New American Chamber orchestra, and at the Old Isleworth Festival in London, England.

He holds a MM from Juilliard where he was a scholarship student of Samuel Baron. He studied with Thomas Nyfenger on a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship, and in Paris with Michel Debost.

As a faculty member of the prestigious Manhattan School of Music Precollege, Max has been teaching students of all ages and skill-levels for over 15 years. With his sheer passion for music and extensive teaching experience he is able to inspire his students to achieve their goals, in a fun and supportive environment.

Max is a firm believer that a positive learning experience is achieved by creating an environment in which the strengths and differences of each student are celebrated and encouraged. All lessons are tailored to the individual student, according to their goals, musical tastes, and skill-level.

Instruments and skills taught: saxophone, flute, clarinet, jazz piano, music theory, composition, song writing, ear-training, electronic music production with Ableton Live.

Musical Styles:
Drawing from his wide experience as a performer in various genres, Max is able to teach a broad range of styles, from jazz, classical, to pop, electronic, and World Music.

Lesson ...

I majored in Music Education at West Chester University in Pennsylvania. I have taken a 15 year break from teaching however I have played the flute for over 26 years. Since I am just getting back in to teaching I would prefer to work with beginner to intermediate students. I have 4 children ranging in age from 2 - 13 years old and can teach in my home or yours, whichever you prefer.

I create customized lessons for each student that will help you learn the fundamental skills needed to play any kind of music. Students will learn the basics of flute playing, ear training, theory and improvisation. You will learn something new at every lesson and achieve a relevant, achievable goal!