About
I am a full time multi-instrumentalist session/touring musician, producer, songwriter, and artist who is classically trained but proficient in many genres including, but not limited to jazz, funk, rock, metal, and pop. I teach piano, guitar, bass, music production, mixing/mastering, songwriting, and more. My teaching style is specific to your level and goals do there is no one size fits all approach. I teach using a mixture of exercises, ear training, music theory, song performance, and improvisation and I believe the most important thing when learning music is being able to internalize what it is that you are playing, whether that be through your ears or your overall understanding of music theory, both of which I use to supplement my lessons.
I love being able to talk about and teach the more nuanced aspects of music and help people on their own personal musical journey. I'm not interested in giving everyone the same playing style, rather, I believe that everyone has their own unique sound that can be revealed by a deeper understanding of music.
Reviews
Daryl D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I start by assessing the student's current level in their respective instrument(s). Then I ask them about their musical goals and preferred playing styles. From there I make a curriculum tailored specifically to them consisting of different levels of ear training, sight reading (if that is one of the goals), exercises, music theory,s performance, and improvisation. My overall goal is to make sure each student has a deep understanding of what they play and why.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've studied piano and music theory for 23 years under many different teachers, as well as guitar and bass guitar for 16 years, and composition and music production for 10. I am also part of the 2020 class at the Lillehammer Institute of Music Production and Industries in Norway; a one year program taught by some of the best songwriters and producers in the world that accepts 48 students worldwide every year.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $25/half hour and $40/hour. Any amount of time past that can be negotiated for a further discount.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching at Bach To Rock in Bethesda Maryland after graduating highschool. I began by coaching rock bands but then transitioned into private lessons as well.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages from early childhood to adult, and spanning across all musical styles and backgrounds from beginner to advanced.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I recommend coming up with a list of your musical goals and aspirations to have something tangible to work towards.