About
Hornist Bill Burns holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Applied Horn from the Catholic University of America (CUA). He studied with Joseph Singer and James Chambers, former Solo Hornists with the New York Philharmonic, James Stagliano, former Principal Horn with the Boston Symphony and Francisco Donaruma, former Principal Horn of the New York Ballet. Bill has performed as the principal horn of the Rome Festival Orchestra, Washington Chamber Orchestra, Montgomery Symphony Orchestra, Capital Wind Symphony, Maryland All State Concert Band, Capital Horns, Rockville Concert Band, and the New Brass Quintet. He spent 30 years in the music recording industry and opened the first Compact Disc mastering facility in the Mid-Atlantic region in 1985. In addition to teaching private horn and trumpet lessons, Bill currently produces websites, does communications consulting for non-profit agencies, and plays the horn for pleasure.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Every student is different and I develop lesson plans based on their individual personalities, abilities, and goals. I mainly work on teaching students the fundamentals that should enable them to progress quickly, which fosters continued enjoyment of playing the instrument. In addition, I work on strategies for successful performance, auditions, and overcoming nerves. There is never any yelling or tension in my lessons. My number one goal is to foster a lifelong enjoyment and appreciation of music.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I earned a Bachelor of Music in Applied Horn and had the good fortune to study with legendary performers/teachers Joseph Singer, James Chambers, James Stagliano, and Francisco Donaruma. In addition to solo performances, I play regularly in a variety of groups including orchestras, wind ensembles, brass quintet, and horn choir.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Most students take half hour lessons on a weekly basis. There's a lot of playing in a half hour lesson, so that's as long as most student's lips will last. My rate for a half hour lesson is $30 per lesson, payable at the beginning of the month. Sometimes students will take extra lessons in preparation for auditiions and performances. As students progress, they may need to take one hour lessons. My rate for an hour lesson is $55 per lesson, payable at the beginning of the month.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching when I was in Music School in college. I found I enjoyed it a great deal and derived a lot of satisfaction from experiencing student's progress and have continued teaching ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I enjoy working with students at any stage of their development, from rank beginner to adults. I currently teach students from those that simply enjoy playing and taking lessons, to those that perform with the Maryland Classic Youth Orchestra, the Potomac Valley Youth Orchestra, and Montgomery County Honors Band.