About
Music has been my lifelong passion, starting from the moment I taught myself to play Fur Elise on my aunt's electric piano as a child. Now, as an experienced music educator, I'm here to help you achieve your musical aspirations in a personalized and genuine way.
With over 7 years of teaching experience, both online and in-studio, I take pride in meeting each student where they are on their musical journey. I tailor my instruction to your unique needs, whether you're a beginner or an advanced musician. Together, we'll cultivate the skills necessary to play the music that fuels your passion.
Being a professional musician, composer, and arranger with a decade of experience, I have the ability to transcribe and arrange your favorite songs effortlessly. From popular hits by Bruno Mars and Stevie Wonder to iconic video game themes like Super Mario Brothers and Zelda, I've worked with a wide variety of music to inspire my students. Through my extensive knowledge of music theory and ear training, I'll not only help you learn the songs you love but also develop your own musical style.
In addition to my teaching expertise, I hold a BA in Psychology with a Music Minor from the Ohio State University and a MM with an emphasis in Jazz Studies from the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. As an M1 certified instructor at Musicologie, I'm dedicated to unlocking your full potential.
I offer private lessons for trombone, euphonium, and trumpet, covering fundamental techniques, music theory, jazz theory, improvisation, composition, and music engraving and notation. To support your learning journey, all students enrolled in private lessons gain access to a Google Drive folder filled with educational resources for all instruments
Specialties
Student's age
Able to read music
Years experience
Instrument style
Musical styles
Photos and videos
Reviews
Amanda R.
Sebastian S.
Tommy L.
Shannon K.
Ben L.
Stephanie L.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Typically, depending on the age of the student, I will ask a series of questions or have the student complete a few exercises in order to guage their skill level. From there, I ask the student to create a few specific goals for themselves and then work with them to achieve those goals! It is also important to understand the interests, needs, and personality of each particular student. This allows me to cater to everyone!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree in Psychology and Music from The Ohio State University and a Master of Music with an emphasis in Jazz Studies from the Cincinnti College-Conservatory of Music. I am currently an Adjunct Professor of Trombone at Xavier University, a Department Leader at West Chester Academy, and an M1 Certified Instructor at Musicologie Anderson. I have been teaching private lessons in-studio for 6 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Online:
$40 per half hour
$80 per hour
In Person (You come to me):
$50 per half hour
$100 per hour
In Home (I come to you):
Same rate as in person, plus commute time (rate will depend on travel time)
Rate is flexible depending on the student's needs!
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching while a student at Ohio State University by working band camps in 2016 with Dublin Jerome High School and New Bremen High School. From there I began teaching privately in Columbus and the surrounding areas through Encore Music Studios in Dublin/Westerville and through Music & Arts in Reynoldsburg. For a short time, I taught private trombone and euphonium lessons at Teays Valley High School in Ashville, Ohio
From 2017-2019, I taught guitar, brass and piano at Encore Music Studios in Westerville and Dublin, and from 2018-2019 I taught at Musicologie in Grandview, Ohio and GnG Music in New Albany, Ohio. Shortly after moving to Cincinnati in 2019 for my masters degree, I was hired to teach guitar and brass at West Chester Academy and Anderson Music Workshop (which became Musicologie Anderson in 2021), where I currently work. During my time at CCM, I led an undergraduate student jazz combo, in addition to leading my own groups.
After graduating with my masters degree, I was hired to teach trombone at Xavier University, and am currently employed there as well. I have several private students outside of these three places as well.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students as young as 4 and as old as 70.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have recently been performing with the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, assisting in their efforts to extend jazz education to Columbus and the surrounding areas. What an experience!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone who vibes well with your personality! It is also very important to have a goal or set of goals in mind when looking for a teacher. Ask lots of questions!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What would you like to gain by taking lessons? Where do you see yourself musically in the next few years or so? What kind of music would you like to play? Think about music from the following contexts:
Video Games
Movies
Tv Shows
The radio
Any other areas that resonate with you?