Teaching:
I am currently offering both online lessons and in person lessons. Online lessons are taught over Zoom, and in person lessons are being held after school at Longfellow Middle School in Falls Church, VA. Please email me at nick.thompson121@gmail.com to inquire about my lesson rates, studio availability and to learn about my studio policies.
Teaching Philosophy:
My teaching is practical in that I focus on building clarinet fundamentals, musicianship and practice techniques early on with my students. I use several warm-up studies throughout the course of lessons that help in developing the student's tone, technique, intonation, articulation, music theory and rhythm. When working on repertoire, whether it be ensemble music, etudes, or solo pieces, I will talk with the student about which era the piece falls into within music history, and use this as a way to guide and develop their sense of style, musicality and imagination. I will also guide them in establishing their own practice schedule and building both efficient and consistent practice habits that the student can follow weekly.
Throughout my time working with my students, I have three goals. I hope to give them the tools they need to go beyond the basic challenges of the clarinet, so that they can reach a deeper understanding of both clarinet playing and musicianship. Next, I hope to guide them in developing their curiosity and passion about specific topics within music, which will in turn fuel their enjoyment of music for years to come. Lastly, I not only aim to develop my students ability to teach themselves independently, but also to help them grow into becoming organized, disciplined, and passionate well-rounded adults. With these tools and attributes, I believe that they will be successful at whatever they put their minds to, both inside and outside of the musical world.
Required Materials:
- Clarinet in good working condition, mouthpiece, reeds (at least a whole box), ligature, music as assigned, metronome (either a physical one or an app is fine)
- If you have any questions about buying a new clarinet, upgrading your equipment (mouthpiece, ligature, barrel, reed), or where to get your clarinet repaired, please ask me first as I have many suggestions and recommendations!
I am currently offering both online lessons and in person lessons. Online lessons are taught over Zoom, and in person lessons are being held after school at Longfellow Middle School in Falls Church, VA. Please email me at nick.thompson121@gmail.com to inquire about my lesson rates, studio availability and to learn about my studio policies.
Teaching Philosophy:
My teaching is practical in that I focus on building clarinet fundamentals, musicianship and practice techniques early on with my students. I use several warm-up studies throughout the course of lessons that help in developing the student's tone, technique, intonation, articulation, music theory and rhythm. When working on repertoire, whether it be ensemble music, etudes, or solo pieces, I will talk with the student about which era the piece falls into within music history, and use this as a way to guide and develop their sense of style, musicality and imagination. I will also guide them in establishing their own practice schedule and building both efficient and consistent practice habits that the student can follow weekly.
Throughout my time working with my students, I have three goals. I hope to give them the tools they need to go beyond the basic challenges of the clarinet, so that they can reach a deeper understanding of both clarinet playing and musicianship. Next, I hope to guide them in developing their curiosity and passion about specific topics within music, which will in turn fuel their enjoyment of music for years to come. Lastly, I not only aim to develop my students ability to teach themselves independently, but also to help them grow into becoming organized, disciplined, and passionate well-rounded adults. With these tools and attributes, I believe that they will be successful at whatever they put their minds to, both inside and outside of the musical world.
Required Materials:
- Clarinet in good working condition, mouthpiece, reeds (at least a whole box), ligature, music as assigned, metronome (either a physical one or an app is fine)
- If you have any questions about buying a new clarinet, upgrading your equipment (mouthpiece, ligature, barrel, reed), or where to get your clarinet repaired, please ask me first as I have many suggestions and recommendations!