A: To me, a successful student is one who develops a love of music and who experiences continuous improvement. There are more objective measures of success, such as winning competitions or auditions.
Q: OK, but what does it take to win auditions and competitions?
A: In my studio, and with my colleagues, the two elements that determine success are the student's intention and persistence. Working intelligently every day is the key.
Q: How can I tell if I am talented?
A: While it is undeniable that some people exhibit talent at a very early age, most musicians develop their talent through years of disciplined practice. Usually, when a musician is considered talented, it is because she or he is an accomplished musician—someone who can play virtuosic music and make it sound easy. To achieve this takes years of intelligent practice. I truly believe talent can be developed.
Q: You teach 45 minute and hour lessons. Why not ½ hour lessons?
A: I believe it is important to develop a relationship with students. Also, there are many elements in clarinet playing and developing musicianship that require more than 30 minutes to achieve.
Q: Where do lessons take place?
A: Clarinet lessons take place in the studio in McLean, Virginia, just across the Legion Bridge from Montgomery County, Maryland. It is approximately 20 minutes from Bethesda, and Potomac, Maryland. Virginia clarinet students come from Fairfax County and Loudon County including Falls Church, Vienna, Arlington, and Centerville.
Q: Do you offer a scholarship?
A: Yes. I offer an annual half-scholarship in memory of my principal teacher, in the form of tuition reduction. To be eligible, you must be a student with exceptional talent and financial need.