What is your typical process for working with a new student?

Question

It's crucial to familiarize oneself with the students and their goals, understanding their strengths and weaknesses, and observing how they respond to new challenges and information. This insight enables the delivery of new knowledge in the most effective manner.

I strive to make my lessons as productive and impactful as possible while delivering information in a joyful and effective way.

Answer 1

My process begins with listening — literally and technically. In our first session, I assess tone quality, breath support, embouchure, articulation, and musical phrasing to understand where the student is starting. I also ask about their goals, whether that’s improving fundamentals, preparing for auditions, mastering music theory, or building performance confidence.

From there, I create a focused plan that balances technical development with musical expression. Each session includes warm-ups, skill-building exercises, and applied repertoire work. I believe strong fundamentals create freedom in performance, so I emphasize breath control, tone production, and rhythmic precision while also encouraging musicality and confidence.

Students leave sessions with clear practice strategies and specific goals for the week.