What will students learn during private lessons?
Lessons include but are not limited to: physical set-up and mechanics, technique and efficiency, etudes and solo literature from the standard repertoire, sight-reading, instrument maintenance, ensemble skills training, and methods of practicing.
Are online lessons available?
Yes, I can teach online lessons . I have used Skype to successfully teach many students. Online lessons have allowed me to teach students who are not in the Washington, DC area.
What kind of equipment do I need to take an online lesson?
You will need a computer or mobile device with a microphone, camera
and a stable internet connection.
What do students do during a studio audition?
Students will have a few prepared pieces of music that they can “show off” and display their skills and musicality. The music can be selections from their school band program, etudes, audition music, etc. Students will be assessed on their skill levels, musicality, technique, range, tone, sound production, embouchure, and other essential aspects of playing their instrument. Suggestions for improvement will be given during the audition and allows The teacher and student to see if it will be a good fit to move forward and register for ongoing lessons.
How do you schedule lessons?
Lessons are scheduled on a weekly basis on the same day and time each week.
Do you offer lessons during the summer?
Yes, lessons are offered during the summer and students are highly encouraged to continue lessons so that they can continue their growth and progress they have made during the school year.
How often do you recommend students to practice?
For beginners in 4th and 5th grade, a minimum of 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. For 6th grade and older, a minimum of 45 minutes a day 5 days a week. For students that may continue musical studies in college, I recommend a minimum of 75 minutes a day, 5-6 days a week. As a rule of thumb, practice until you can do three things that you couldn’t do when you first started to practice 10 times in a row correctly.
Where is the best place to practice?
The best place to practice is someplace quiet, free of distractions.
What type of payments do you accept?
I accept payment through PayPal, Zelle, personal checks, or cash.
In the past my student has not been challenged by his past teachers. Will your lessons be challenging enough for my student?
Absolutely! There is always something to improve when playing an instrument. We focus on multiple aspects of playing the trumpet and musicianship in order to develop a whole musician.
Can you recommend a dealer for upgraded equipment?
I can suggest reputable dealers for all instruments including Selmer Bach, Shires and CarolBrass.
Do you suggest renting or purchasing an instrument for the first year of study?
I personally recommend renting an instrument for the first year to see how your student will respond to the trumpet and what is entailed to play it. Many people prefer to purchase their own instrument and I can recommend many cost-effective quality instruments to consider. When the time comes to upgrade your instrument, I highly suggest keeping the student model for the marching band in high school to use outside.
