Dr. Mark Miller Low Brass And Theory Lessons
About
I specialize in Trombone, Baritone, Euphonium, and Tuba private lessons. I also can tutor music theory students. I have been teaching Low Brass and music classes at several colleges throughout California since 2015. I have a Doctorate in Trombone Performance from USC. Other degrees include a Masters in Trombone Performance (also from USC) and a BA in Music from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Currently I am a member of the San Luis Obispo Symphony and I have played with the San Diego Symphony, Fresno Philharmonic, and Monterey Symphony.
I love getting to know a wide variety of students, from beginners to college students and seasoned professionals. I learn from all of them and the feeling of helping them achieve their goals and grow as musicians is the ultimate compliment I can receive as a teacher.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I customize each lesson to the student's goals and needs. Through fundamental techniques I help bolster the student's abilities to help them meet and exceed their goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been teaching privately since 2008 and at the college level since 2015. My students have performed in the SCSBOA All-Southern Bands and Orchestra, Tournament of Roses Honor Band, and local youth orchestras. My college students have gone on to pursue various careers in music, including attending graduate programs at major music schools.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I offer three types of lessons based on length.
$100/hour
$75/45 minutes
$50/30 minutes
How did you get started teaching?
Ever since the 4th grade I knew I wanted to be a teacher! During an assembly at school I was asked what I wanted to be and when I replied "a teacher!" the students all groaned and the teachers cheered. Once I discovered my passion and talent for Trombone, it was inevitable that I would become a music teacher.
What types of students have you worked with?
All kinds, from beginners in elementary and middle school through advanced college and adult students. I love meeting and getting to know people and using my skills and experience to help them become the best musicians they can be!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently participated in the Body Mind Spirit Workshop put on by Jeremy Wilson (Trombone faculty at Vanderbilt University). It focused on creating a complete musician by bringing all aspect of ourselves - Body, Mind, Spirit - into harmony.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone that has specific professional teaching experience in YOUR instrument. Many teachers teach lots of instruments, but there are certain techniques and skills that only someone who has put in many years of study can address. This is the best way to avoid learning bad habits or incorrect technique.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What do they want out of music lessons? It is critical for me as a teacher to know what my students are aiming to do - it guides my entire teaching approach. A student that wants to make an honor band will need different instruction than a student that merely wants to improve on their instrument out of pure enjoyment and curiosity.