About
My resume includes recent performances in China, France, Germany, and Carnegie Hall. I am a well-qualified performer, but music education is my number one priority. When you choose to learn bassoon with me, you are guaranteed lessons from not just a musician, but an effective, passionate, and reliable teacher. My lessons are unique in that they have the traditional emphasis on technique and musicality, but also include a little ear training and music history along the way. Bassoon is incredibly versatile and holds a special place in the development of music, and my goal is to help you enjoy as many of the myriad opportunities it presents as possible! My students are well rounded musicians who have a deep understanding of the complexities (and joys!) of our beautiful instrument.
I also make and sell my own reeds. Reed making lessons are available to all interested students.
I love those magical moments when suddenly something clicks for my student. The way their eyes light up makes my whole day!
Highlights
Reviews
sharon
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
During the first lesson I ask students about their goals and then hear them play a little. Future curriculum will be based on what I learn during this first interaction. I take pride in choosing repertoire that is the perfect level for my students- challenging enough to push them to progress, but not so hard that they become demotivated.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been teaching bassoon for more than 10 years. My most recent teacher was Valentin Martchev, principal bassoonist of the San Diego Symphony. I have a degree in music education with dual coursework in bassoon performance from California State University Fullerton. I am currently earning my state teaching credential.
While I am a firm believer in only teaching that which you are an expert at and therefore teach only bassoon, I do play most of the other woodwinds at an intermediate level. I also have experience on brass and strings. If you are an instrumentalist looking to learn bassoon as a second instrument, I know what the general similarities and differences are and how to best help you learn.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$50 per hour standard rate.
$65 per hour for group lessons.
How did you get started teaching?
I've wanted to teach since I was in elementary school. I love music. Teaching bassoon is a win-win.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have experience with students of all ages. I get along very well with junior high and high school aged students and also enjoy teaching adult beginners.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have fun every time I teach. I've had a lot of great experiences playing bassoon around the world, but my favorite moments have always been when students get excited about something they are learning.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure the teacher you hire is well qualified. There are a lot of teachers out there who only play bassoon as a secondary instrument. Bassoon is complicated (the fingerings have never been standardized! The reeds are handmade!), and because they've never studied it at a professional level, they don't know exactly how wrong their information is. Never go to a bassoon teacher whose major was not bassoon. You'll have to re-learn everything about technique when you want to progress beyond a beginner level.
I experienced this personally and wouldn't wish that process upon my worst enemy.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Why do I want to learn bassoon?
What environment do I learn best in? (high pressure, low pressure, etc)
What kind of learner am I? (Audio, visual, kinesthetic, etc)