Even before we meet-whether in person or online, there are a couple of things you can do to enhance our first lesson experience. We may be acquainted on some level, and in a general sense, but of course that's the tip of the iceberg. I look forward to getting to know you, and more importantly, how I can help you get where you’d like to go. The list below gives you, the new student-to-me, suggestions to get a head start on our lessons.
Students who have studied in my studio are witness to my own philosophy of playing; how I conduct my own preparation for performance, and how I approach problems and solve them. Most have had success far beyond their wildest imaginations. Students are regularly placed in Music Festivals through Auditions at all levels, from Junior and Senior District Music Festivals, to All-State and All-Eastern Music Festivals. Lessons preparing for orchestra placement auditions have regularly placed students in sections in each of Boston’s many youth orchestras. Further audition preparation lessons may include college auditions, as well as professional orchestral auditions.
Whether students are coming from advanced formal musical training, or are students who are just wondering what’s out there in the world of music, I try to guide them toward the many musical opportunities that will suit them. And being located in the Boston and greater New England area, there are many orchestras and bands available for young and old. For those students interested in making the important step of private instruction to more fully realize their potential, here are some things you can do to set yourself up for "hitting the ground running" when you take your first lesson:
- If lesson is to be Online, Virtual, or Distance, please set up such that I can see your slide arm and your embouchure in the camera. (That means to point the slide to the left of the webcam.) Also please see to it that you are reading from a music stand placed to the right of the slide. Always play to the left of your music stand- so that you won’t have to blow directly into the stand, nor have to look through the bell to see the music.
- Download and Print my warm-up Nutrients, and Lesson Agenda. Procure the music mentioned in this website, especially those pieces ability-appropriate for you.
- Get a metronome, tuner, b.e.r.p. (look it up online…), pencil, and music stand.
- Be sure your instrument is cleaned and well-maintained (slides/valves function smoothly and quietly). Get a Cleaning Rod and water spray bottle for the Slide…see my video about slide maintenance
- Please be on-time and warmed-up upon arrival so that we can dig right in!
- While I have certain ideas about how to go about making the most of your physical and musical abilities, you are the most important element in the process. You become you own best teacher, and having a great attitude can help you take advantage of my extensive experience following our collaboration!
- I hope to be inspiring, and your attitude and energy will complete the successful package. Bring your curiosity and musical passion!
- Come loaded with questions and prepared with music to play as I get to know you and your music-making.