Private Lessons

Composition lessons are ideal for those who have musical ideas to express and wish to hone their craft in realizing these ideas.  Lessons include discussions in multiple facets of music (music theory, music history, orchestration, counterpoint, etc.), as well as listening examples from all genres and time periods.  We consider all of these types of music and how they can inform new and interesting directions in music - your work!  Students of multiple skill levels are welcome!

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Lesson Structure

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The structure of each lesson depends on the level at which the student is studying.  Each week, we will explore a piece that you are working on - we will identify the intentions of the piece, and identify areas that support these intentions, as well as areas that may be improved.  We will support our discussions with topics from music theory, music history, orchestration, counterpoint, etc.  If you are not currently working on a piece, I will give you a direction or prompt to write to.  We will also spend time listening to music and discussing the wide variety of materials that are available to draw from.  

Private instrument lessons are ideal for those who wish to explore their instruments at a deeper level, as well as beginners who wish to learn a new instrument.  I specialize in teaching primarily trombone and baritone/euphonium of all skill levels, though I also may help with other brass instrument exploration at a beginning level.  Whether you are preparing for an audition/chair test/performance, or wish to learn everything about your instrument that you can, I am happy to join you in your exploration.  

Lesson Structure

In our lessons, we will focus on all areas of playing, including fundamentals, musicality, and connecting our performance to the wider aspect of music.  If you are working on material for an audition or performance, we will spend time working to understand and perform the material to the best of your ability.  If you do not have material that you are currently working on, I will help you find material to practice that is appropriate for your skill level.  Our lessons will help you to perform at the best of your abilities, as well as connect your playing to the wider world of music.     

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Music theory lessons are ideal for anyone who is enrolled in AP Music Theory, those taking music theory courses in college, those preparing for graduate school placement exams, and those seeking to pursue music at a higher level.  I also offer music theory for non-musicians, who wish to explore, listen, experience, and appreciate music at a deeper level.  Music theory tutoring will meet you where you are - the material will be personalized based on your needs and specific musical goals.  

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Lesson Structure

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This tutoring typically includes material covered in most college music theory courses (freshman and sophomore level), as well as counterpoint, form, analytical techniques, and orchestration.  Other courses may be covered as appropriate.  Much like other subject area tutoring, we will focus only on the topics that you need help with (unless you prefer a wider breadth of material).  I will provide handouts with useful concepts, as well as worksheets to provide extra practice as appropriate.  

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I also offer piano instruction for beginners of all ages.  These lessons will cover the beginning elements of piano playing, including playing technique, music reading, basic music theory, and performance etiquette.  Please note that I offer these lessons for those who are at the beginning stages of playing only.  I typically follow Alfred's Basic piano curriculum, though any curriculum of your choice may be followed.  This instruction is offered in-person only.