Joshua K.

All students of orchestral instruments (primarily brass) will be guided through techniques to strengthen their understanding of their instrument. These techniques will include time honored warm ups, etudes, theory, and excerpt study. Beginner students are advised to bring the method book used by their school if available. If not available, I use the Rubank method books primarily for study and learning and can provide a copy at lessons; however, it is recommended to purchase a copy for the student as well so they may use it at home. The theory element of the lessons is matched to the student. If the student is unfamiliar with any aspect of music beyond just making a sound, the theory will be introduced very gradually as the lessons progress. If the student is well acquainted with more advanced topics of theory, then the content covered will be suitably more advanced.

First lesson always begins with 10-15 minutes of "getting to know you" time. Introductions and learning about the student's interests, experience, and goals. Following this, I ask the student to sing a familiar song, whatever they are most comfortable singing, so that I can form an understanding of their voice and how they use it. I might, after this, ask the student to sing the song again to a backing or karaoke track to listen to how the student relates to pitch and tempo. The remainder of the first lesson is comprised of warmup techniques and vocal exercises chosen to complement and challenge the student. Closing the lesson will set up goals for the next session and answer any questions that may have arisen. Subsequent lessons will be focused on building the techniques and strengthening the student's voice to reach the goals they set in the first lesson.