West McLean, VA Trombone Lessons

Trombone is probably the most fun brass instrument. I enjoy getting beginners started and intermediate students to the next level.

I equally cover fundamentals, technique, tone production, classical, jazz and anything else the student might be interested in.

Students begin with the Rubank method. A strong emphasis is placed on the fundamentals of scales, ear training, sight reading, and music theory. Along with this we have fun playing the music student enjoys.

I have ten years' experience teaching all brass instruments. Emphasis on tone production while covering other aspects from learning the positions to creating beautiful musical phrases.

Playing a brass instrument can be a fun and rewarding experience when approached in the correct way. I help all my students develop a good attitude toward playing music, as well as setting them up for success in developing a good sound and technique. I have helped students prepare for all situations, including auditions, adjudications, and yearly band concerts.

My students can expect to have a balanced practice life starting with daily routines/trombone maintenance, continuing to etudes and technical studies, and ultimately finishing with musical repertoire. I give my students the skills on how to become efficient practicers, which is essential if he/she wishes to make regular improvements on the trombone. My goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere in which students can feel free to express themselves through the music they play. I keep students mentally engaged by asking them questions that are intended to direct them toward creating a clear, personal interpretation of their music. This gives the student a sense of artistic authority and ownership over their playing and creates more enjoyment in daily practicing.

I have a degree in music education which has taught me about all woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. I can help you achieve all of your performance goals.

Beginner - Learn how to read music and have a good technical grasp of tonguing and phrasing.
Intermediate - Prepare to learn pieces of music and play in ensembles.
Advanced - learn orchestral performance and solo performance techniques on a high level.

I have studied trombone actively for 22 years and I'm well-versed in several styles of music. Everything from classical to Broadway stage production to be-bop, funk, neo-soul and everything in between. Students will be able to shape their sound with a skilled professional who can give excellent direction and find the shortest path to obtaining the style and skills they are looking for.

I am an avid brass performer and teacher in the greater Baltimore area, having played for over a decade. In lessons, we will work out of some of the most trusted method books, discuss fundamental playing techniques in an accessible and easy-to-understand way, and search for unique solutions to individual problems as I tailor my teaching method to your learning style. All ages are welcome.