Music Lessons

(acoustic instruments only)

This band will work on acoustic versions of popular music with an emphasis on the current bluegrass/Appalachian music revival. Students will be expected to learn to improvise and sing in harmony as part of this ensemble. Only acoustic instruments are allowed e.g. acoustic guitar and bass, banjo, ukulele, violin, voice, hand percussion, flute, tin whistle etc.

Prerequisites:

• Guitar, ukulele and banjo players must be able to play six chords and be able to read notation or tablature. Being able to play a G major scale is important for improvising and adding filling notes—this is a skill that must be known or mastered quickly.
• Violins must be able to confidently play a melody, read notation (or be adept at playing by ear) and be willing to learn to improvise. They must be confident on the G major scale.
• Flute, whistles, etc. must be able to read basic notation or be adept at playing by ear.
• Diatonic instruments like the Irish tin whistle may need to have multiple instruments to suit the key of the music.

All students in the acoustic band should be willing to sing along with a chorus. Lead singers need to be able to sing a harmony part so will need a strong musical ear.

To sign up for this band, contact Mike Woods. If your child plays an instrument not mentioned here and is interested in taking part please feel free to discuss with Mike Woods directly.

Bio
A Montgomery County native, Annie served as the concertmaster for All-County Orchestra and Walter Johnson Highschool. During her time at Boston College, she received a prestigious scholarship to pursue advanced violin study in Cremona, Italy. After graduating from Boston College where she served as the concertmaster with a B.A. in Music, she joined Teach For America in Baltimore City. At Highlandtown Elementary Middle School, she taught ESOL and also started a violin and piano afterschool program. As a lead teaching artist for Baltimore Symphony Orchestra's OrchKids, she refined her violin pedagogy and experienced first-hand, music's transformative power. After completing her M.S. in Education at Johns Hopkins University in 2015, she pursued further study at Harvard University, where she earned her M.A. in Education Policy and Management. 
 
Teaching Style
My highest priority is for students to feel profound joy when making music. This connection with music will be a life-long experience and an asset in immeasurable ways. I also focus on developing a strong foundation in both violin-playing and musicianship by combining the Suzuki pedagogy with various other method books such as the Mark O’Connor Violin Method and Hal Leonard’s Essential Elements. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, I have found that exposure to diverse pedagogies foster well-rounded and adaptable violinists. 
 
Teaching Schedule
I teach at Lowell on Wednesdays 2pm-6pm. I am also available to schedule lessons at my studio or your home. 
 
Student Ages
I currently teach students ranging from 4 years to 86 years old. 
 
Required Materials
Students will need an approrpriately sized violin, bow, rosin, and a notebook. Shoulder rests are optional, though most prefer to use it. 

Bio
I have been instructing instrumental music in both individual and group settings since 1996. I teach guitar, bass, piano, trumpet, euphonium, and hand drumming. I teach students from beginning to advanced levels on all these instruments. I have taught at various locations and schools over the years including Glen Music Studios, Victor Litz Music Center, Hebrew Academy of Greater Washington, House of Musical Traditions (HMT), and Lowell School.

Throughout each year I organize various concerts and shows for students to showcase their talents and ability and to give them an outlet to have fun and perform in front of an audience. I am also the Director of the Takoma Groove Camp, a summer camp for teen musicians.

I have played in various concert, marching, and jazz bands, as well as pit orchestras. I studied at Montgomery College and at the Collective in New York City, at Victor Wooten's Camps in Nashville, and with various master musicians. I still perform in and around the DC area on a weekly basis and am also a live sound engineer.

Teaching Style
I believe music is a language and should therefore be approached as one. All aspects of music are equally important, including reading, writing, playing, listening, understanding theory, communicating with other musicians, and improvisation. I think it is necessary to keep interest and drive alive in budding musicians and not overwhelm them with too much theory and technique right away.

Just as a spoken language is supported and encouraged at home, so should a musical instrument and the language that goes along with it. Time should be allotted at home for practice and listening, as this is integral for a young person?s musical growth.

For my teaching I prefer to pull from a variety of sources to give a well-rounded approach. I introduce many genres to the student so they have broad range of styles to enjoy playing. I cater each lesson to the individual student to allow for the most enjoyment and growth in their musical career.

Student Ages
Piano: 5 years and up
Brass: 8 years and up
Guitar: 8 years and up

I will certainly make exceptions if the student is younger and already showing signs of a higher ability level. Individual lessons are preferable as they allow for focused attention and pace for that particular student. I am open to small groups of two or possibly three for guitar or brass lessons if the students have some prior experience. Piano students must be taught individually.


Scheduling
I am currently available for lessons on Friday afternoons right after school from 3:20pm until 7:00 pm and on Saturdays from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm.


Required Materials
All students must have a decent instrument in working condition that is theirs to use at all times and can be taken home to practice on. If the family of a piano student does not own a full size piano, there are many inexpensive keyboard options available. Guitar and brass students must have an instrument that they own or have rented. Younger, beginning guitar students should consider a nylon string 1/2 or 3/4 size guitar as it will be easier on the fingers and easier to hold against their bodies.

• All students will be required to have a manuscript book of music staff paper and a folder for loose pieces of sheet music and handouts.
• Piano students will most likely also have another set of method and theory books to work out of.
• Guitar students must have a chromatic tuner, picks and a music stand.

In terms of books, most often I will purchase the books needed and hand them out to students. I will then let parents know exactly how much the materials cost and collect reimbursement at that time.

Links to Instrument and Accessory Examples
Beginner's Guitar Starter Pack
Beginner’s ¾ Size Acoustic Guitar
Casio 61 Key Portable Keyboard
Yamaha 61 Key Portable Keyboard
Folding Wire Music Stand  
Deluxe Traditional Music Stand
Student Model Bb Trumpet
Korg Chromatic Tuner

Bio
I received my MM in Vocal Performance and GPD in Opera from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University. I also hold a BS in Music Education and a BM in Vocal Performance from the University of Connecticut. Opera performance highlights include The Portland Opera Resident Artists Program, the Evian Festival under the baton of Rostropovich, Opera to Go! and the Baltimore and Washington Opera choruses. As a soloist I have appeared with Annapolis Opera, Mt. Vernon 21st Century Ensemble, and the Columbia Symphony. 



Vocal Instructors include international teacher Thom Hauser; Ruth Drucker, Stanley Cornett (Peabody Institute); and Carol Ann O’Connor (University of Connecticut). Lastly, I studied choral techniques and sectional leading under Dr. Peter Bagley, a student of Julius Herford and teacher of world-renown choral conductor and composer, Robert Shaw.

Teaching Style
As a seasoned music education specialist, I combine knowledge of differentiated instruction and a multiple sensory approach to learning with a bel canto or Italian classical approach to singing. I specialize in teaching to the unique learning styles of my students, whether that is visual, aural, tactile, or combination thereof.  Voice lessons for students age 10+ (physical maturity dependent) combine learning proper posture, breath support and control, diction, and dramatic interpretation of the music. Vocal coaching for students age 8+ focuses on basic breath support, forming pure vowel sounds, matching pitch, executing rhythmic accuracy, clear diction, and dramatic delivery. My specialty is teaching voice in the genres of classical, Broadway musical, and pop music styles.

Teaching Philosophy
Music is a foreign language, science, and art form. It requires using both right and left- brain modalities. Singing should be fun and engaging for students, build on successes and an understanding that it is a very personal process that entails developing one’s confidence and ability over time.

Student Ages
Vocal Coaching: 8+

Voice Lessons:  10+

Scheduling
I am available on Tuesdays. Please contact me directly to negotiate a time for lessons.

Required Materials
All students must practice AT LEAST 15 minutes a day. Parents must be willing to assist in making sure their child is practicing to insure progress.


Bio
For more than 14 years I have taught private piano lessons–mostly to young children and teens at the beginning and intermediate levels. I have taught individual lessons, duets, and ensembles.

My formal training began at age seven. I am a strong believer in the idea that the more we know, the more there is to know. With that mindset, I was fortunate to learn the basics and beyond from amazing musicians throughout my life. In addition, I have participated in many programs at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and have played in various symphonic and pit orchestras and ensembles. 

Teaching Style
Lessons are designed to suit the individual student and his or her specific needs. With all students, I give the utmost consideration to what they are able to accomplish on an emotional, cognitive, and physical level. The objective is for students to find learning the instrument fun and exciting.

The lessons cover basic improvisation, note reading, theory, and technique—all at a pace that is comfortable for the student. My under-six pianists enjoy fun improvisation, learning the musical alphabet, rhythms, note values, proper hand positions, and more as they begin their musical journey.

I organize several recitals each year for my students to experience performing, have fun, and show what they have learned to friends and family.

Student Ages
Age 3 and up

Scheduling
Please contact me regarding availability, days, and times. I am flexible, but will be filling up each day before adding more.

Required Materials
All students must have a piano or keyboard available at home to practice on. I prefer that they have an acoustic piano, but a keyboard is acceptable in the beginning. If you plan to buy a keyboard, please consult with me so I can help you find an instrument that will be suitable.

I will help you select the proper books and other materials that will be needed.

Bio
I’ve been teaching piano since 2008 in my home studio in Silver Spring, MD.
I have a minor in music from Tulane University, and have done teacher
training in the Suzuki Method. I also teach Music Mind Games, a curriculum
of more than 200 cooperative games for teaching music theory and reading,
developed by Michiko Yurko. I have also taught Spanish for many years, and
have an M.A. in Latin American Literature.There are many ways to approach learning the piano, but what I think the
Suzuki method has going for it specifically is the following:

Bio
I am the Middle School music teacher at Lowell. I teach brass instruments, guitar with voice, and Irish tin whistle.

As a brass teacher, I have huge experience across many musical genres and I am happy teaching up to the highest levels. I believe that brass playing is a very physical pursuit and teach with an emphasis on the mechanics of creating a good sound. With that basis students can then explore their musicality from a strong foundation.

For guitar students, I focus on teaching students how to play and sing songs using chords and simple melodies. I then weave appropriate music theory into lessons so that students can understand their art better and begin to write their own music if they are interested. During lessons I also teach singing technique with a focus on pop and folk.

I prefer to teach from a range of materials rather than using one particular book and often supplement activities with music that the students are personally interested in.
 
Student Ages
I teach children ages 7 and up on the guitar and 8 and up on brass instruments. I will make an exception only on the grounds of exceptional musical ability. I enjoy working with groups of children; however, when possible, individual lessons are better for most learners. Having said that, I do encourage students to play in groups where and when possible and sometimes combine students’ lessons so that they are able to work together. I will teach guitar or brass to groups of two. I will consider three if they are older/more experienced musicians.


Scheduling
I am available for lessons every day after school; however my schedule does not often allow me to teach lessons directly after school. Please contact me directly to negotiate a time for lessons: mwoods@lowellschool.org.

Required Materials
It is essential that students have an appropriate instrument before they start lessons. Parents MUST also consider where and when their child will practice that will suit both the child and themselves. Initially music lessons, especially brass lessons, will create a very loud and sometimes unpleasant noise in your house that you must be willing to encourage and listen to! If a child practices every day this will quickly get much better, but your child will need support and help to get over the first very important hurdle.

Brass Students

1. Brass instrument – either through the school or rented/bought locally (see me for help)
2. Music stand
3. Play Trumpet Today! Beginners Pack
4. A folder for individual sheets of music and practice sheets

Guitar Students

1. Guitar—this needs to “fit” your child—guitars come in different sizes, and it is usually best to bring your child to a music shop and ask for a guitar that will be appropriate. It is best if they get a nylon string acoustic guitar. This will be easier to play and not hurt their fingers as much initially. I would recommend something like a Yamaha student guitar, but there are others on the market. Speak to me for more information.
2. Music stand
3. Foot stool for younger students
4. Guitar for Kids Method & Songbook

Bio
Music has always been a very important part of my life. I was very lucky to know at a young age exactly what I wanted to do in life. I began singing at three and studying piano at five. By age 14, I was studying with world-renowned pianist, Dr. Raymond Jackson. I received a full music scholarship to Carnegie Mellon University and later attended Howard University, where I received my BA degree in Music. My passion for teaching led me to open a school, the Richardson School of Music, in Fairfax, Va. I owned and operated the school for several years until closing its doors in order to spend more time in the studio and performing. 



Now, I sing, write, produce, arrange, vocal arrange, and record in the music industry. I am humbled to have worked with and/or shared the stage with many major artists over the years, including Chrisette Michele, Lauryn Hill, Melanie Fiona, Mario, Mya, En Vogue, Will Downing, Amel Larrieux, Bilal, Raheem DeVaughn, Howard Hewitt, Laura Izibor, Leela James, Goapele, Phife (Tribe Called Quest), Lizz Wright, Anthony David, Jaguar Wright, Res, and many more. I have also had the opportunity to perform at many prestigious performance venues such as: The Kennedy Center, Blues Alley, Carter Baron, The Birchmere, 930 Club, Black Cat, SOB's, and the Sugar Bar to name a few. In 2010, I co-wrote a song that hit #98 on the Billboard charts.



I love performing and creating my own music. However, sharing what I have learned over the years with others is equally rewarding. After 14 years of giving private instruction, my heart always brings me back to teaching.

Teaching Style
I believe that first and foremost, music should be FUN!!!! I make sure that students enjoy music and at the same time learn the technique, style, and beauty the art encompasses. Students are treated as individuals, and lessons are tailored to each child's learning style.

Piano
I teach classical piano, "pop,” and improvisation for the piano from beginner to advanced. Beginners wanting to learn pop or improvisation will first have to learn the fundamentals of the piano, which I teach with a classical approach.

Voice
I teach Pop, R&B, Soul, and Rock vocals. Some might refer to me more as a vocal coach. Students will learn how to sing their favorite songs. While learning these songs they will be concentrating on proper breathing, pitch, and style. Students will do a lot of ear training and vocal exercises to strengthen their ear and voice.

Guitar
I teach beginning guitar. Students who took my guitar class at Lowell over the summer were able to play songs in the first week!! Students will learn chords, scales, and improvisation on the guitar. They will also learn how to read guitar tablature.

Songwriting
I teach songwriting in ALL genres of music.

Student Ages
Piano: 5+

Voice:  8+

Guitar:  6+

Songwriting: 8+

Scheduling
I am available Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
 I offer 30 minute, 45 minute, and 60 minute lessons. Beginners should only sign up for 30 minutes unless they are combining lessons.

Required Material

• All students must practice AT LEAST 15 minutes a day. Parents must be willing to assist in making sure their child is practicing to insure progress.

• Piano students must have a piano/keyboard at home to practice on.
• Guitar students must have a guitar at home to practice on.


• Piano and guitar students will need their lesson book, a notebook, and a pencil each for each lesson.

Bio
I have been teaching music in the DC area for the past 15 years. Until it’s closing in 2014, I was the woodwind instructor at the historic Dale Music Co. and have worked closely with many schools, camps and programs in the area. I grew up in Silver Spring MD and studied Saxophone performance at Shepherd University with Dale Underwood and Scott Silbert. As a professional musician, I have recorded and performed around the world in numerous groups and continue to be active in the DC music scene. Since 2013 I have been teaching at my private practice russellwoodwinds.com, winner of 2016 Washington City Paper readers’ choice for music lessons.

Teaching Style
Over the course of my teaching career, I have had the chance to work with hundreds of students. I have found that every individual is unique in their personal needs, strengths and learning styles. Having the student excel in the school music program is a priority, but I also try to find supplemental ways to make music enjoyable, accessible and engaging.

Student Ages
I offer lessons to students 8 and up, however it must be on a case by case basis for both student and instrument. Saxophone especially has some physical demands that can be hard to overcome for smaller people. I have also used the recorder for younger beginners that want to learn to read music and get a head start. If you have any child that has an interest in woodwinds, feel free to contact me.

Instrument Repair and Service
I was the head repair technician at Dale Music Co. for ten years. I now offer instrument repair and service at my studio in Silver Spring. Please inquire for more information.

Scheduling
This Fall, I will be teaching private lessons at Lowell on Tuesday afternoons. If scheduling around this is a problem, I have some flexibility.