Flute Lessons
Weekly private flute lessons are a great way for students of all ages to learn flute repertoire and improve their musical skills. My goal as your teacher is to equip you with the tools you need to always sound your best, whether you are just starting out on your musical journey or prepping for conservatory auditions.
Lessons are given in-person at my home studio in San Diego, in your own home, or online, and new students may begin at any time. If you or your student would like to get a sense for my teaching style or ask any questions before committing to monthly lessons, please contact me to set up a free 30-minute video lesson.
Programs Offered
Royal Conservatory of Music Certificate (RCM)
San Diego CAPMT Festivals, Competitions, and more
Training
MMus (Flute Performance) Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
MA (Chamber Music) Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
BM (Flute Performance) Oberlin Conservatory
What's Offered
A Holistic Approach to Music
I aim to develop well-rounded musicians. In addition to their flute-specific studies, students will also complete written music theory homework, aural skills exercises, and listening journals. Students also have access to monthly studio newsletters which contain articles on broader topics of musicianship, including practice tips, performance etiquette, networking, and more.
Monthly Studio Class
It is important for young musicians to be comfortable in front of an audience and to develop the art of offering constructive feedback to their peers. These two aspects of musicianship are practiced in Monthly Studio Class, where students get to perform and listen to each other. This fosters a positive and inspiring studio environment.
In-Person Recitals
I view performance as an opportunity to share the beauty of music with the audience, rather than a mere display of skill or technique. For this reason, I highly encourage all of my students to participate in studio recitals and join a performance group (band, orchestra, flute choir, etc) where they will get to perform with and for others.
Standardized Music Curriculums
The Royal Conservatory of Music Certificate Program (RCM) is available to all eligible students. Though not mandatory, this program can be a rewarding and enriching experience, offering a structured path for musical development and a recognized certification upon successful completion.
Lesson FAQ
Why take flute lessons?
One-on-one lessons ensure that students receive instruction tailored to their individual needs. While school band is a fantastic introduction to learning music, some students may feel frustrated by the pace of the group. Perhaps your child learns best in a more relaxed environment - or on the flip side, has even excelled at their instrument and feels bored in band. Whatever your student's level, private instruction guarantees that they will be playing at a level appropriate for them and receive 100% of the teacher's attention.
What age can my child start learning the flute? (And do you teach adults?)
Generally, students in the fourth or fifth grade are ready to begin learning a wind instrument. Students at this age are able to hold the instrument and can learn to control their air. Younger students may also start their wind instrument studies on a recorder, which is lighter and does not require as much air.
Yes, I love working with adult students! Often, adults have more specific musical goals in mind and understand the importance of discipline when it comes to practicing. Whatever your age, it's never too late to start learning the flute.
What materials do I need to start flute lessons?
To be successful in your flute studies, you will need a music stand, a binder for your music, a tuner and metronome (apps work great), and of course a working flute. You should also be prepared to purchase books appropriate to your level, recommended by your teacher (me). If you ever need any assistance purchasing books, please let me know - I'm here to help!
Is flute an easy instrument to learn?
I believe flute has one of the steepest learning curves of all the woodwind instruments, simply because sound production on the flute is more complex than that of reed instruments like clarinets and saxophones. Playing the flute also takes much more air than other woodwind instruments. However, the flute has one of the simplest fingering systems. It's also the lightest instrument and very easy to care for. If your student is willing to put in the work, they will find this beautiful instrument very rewarding to play.
What ensembles can my student participate in as a flutist?
Flute is one of the instruments offered in fourth and fifth grade bands. If your student decides to continue the flute through high school, some exciting ensemble opportunities open up, including marching band (where they may also be required to play piccolo) and, depending on the school, symphonic orchestra. It is not uncommon for flutes to also appear in jazz bands. The flute is a very versatile instrument!
Do you play and/or teach any other instruments?
I play piano and often accompany my students on their solos. I also teach beginning piano. I highly encourage younger students (ages 5-8 who are too young for flute) to start on piano or even recorder, as they'll have a head-start on reading music and understanding musical concepts when they switch to a wind instrument.
Do you teach online?
Yes! Students meet with me over FaceTime, which I have found to be less laggy than Zoom. I strongly encourage online students to supplement their studies by attending once-a-month studio class in-person.
Do you hold recitals?
Yes! Recitals are held thrice a year (spring, summer, and winter) and I encourage all of my students to participate. After all, music is meant to be shared with others!
How do I know if my child is ready to start flute lessons?
Students who enjoy playing in band or orchestra and exhibit natural musical talent are great candidates for private lessons. Lessons also benefit students who have a goal to reach and students who need extra help. If you're still unsure about starting lessons, book a free trial lesson and get all your questions answered in-person.