Education
Clarinet Lessons
With over a decade of experience teaching the private lesson format, I take a custom-tailored approach to help each student accomplish their goals. My students have earned the top seats in their band, jazz band, and orchestra programs. Students of mine have won first chair in both Maryland’s and New Jersey’s all-district and all-county bands.
To me, a private music teacher is not just someone who shows up once a week to help their students. Professor DiLutis taught me that it’s more than just learning how to become skillful at an instrument. It’s a bond developed over time, one where both teacher and student support and communicate with each other. It’s about learning how to be not just a good clarinetist, but how to be an engaging collaborator and wholistic musician. Current and former students of mine keep in continuous touch. I’m just a phone call or text away!
I teach clarinetists of all ages and skill levels in ANY imaginable style. I am classically trained with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Maryland School of Music. I received my primary training under professor Robert DiLutis, the principal clarinetist of the Annapolis Symphony and former professor of clarinet at LSU and Eastman.
My classical teacher lineage stretches back to famous figures such as David Weber, Daniel Bonade, Simeon Bellison, and Cyrille Rose (yes, the same Rose who made all the etudes we know and love!)
I have also learned from many other accomplished teachers and performers such as Jo-Ann Sternberg, current Faculty with the Manhattan School of Music Pre-College and Juilliard’s MAP program. Other teachers include Dr. D Ray McClellan, David Drosinos, and Sara Reese.
I teach a variety of lesson formats! Weekly hour-long lessons are standard and highly encouraged, but bi-weekly, monthly, or 30-minute lessons are available.
Travel options are available. I can come to you to teach lessons in your own home!
I teach several of my students exclusively online through a Zoom format. These students have met great success. All you need is a microphone, computer, and a growth-mindset!
What about bass clarinet? Eb Clarinet? Saxophone?
No worries! I am an experienced auxiliary clarinetist and have taught students in all of these areas!
“I don’t want to play just classical clarinet! I like Jazz/Klezmer/Polka/Pop”
GOOD! I have experience in all of these areas! I encourage all of my students to seek their own form of music-making. If you have a particular interest in a certain style we can discuss this to adjust your lesson plan.
Masterclasses
As a youth, I did not have access to regular private lessons. Scholarship to participate in summer programs and masterclasses is what allowed me to attend music school. I am passionate about giving back to the community by offering masterclasses in clarinet, music theory, aural skills, music production, and chamber music to local public schools and universities.
Testimonials
“Kyle has been my son's clarinet teacher since 2020 at 9 years old. Kyle is kind, patient and very talented. My son's ability to play the clarinet has blossomed and grown. My son went from beginning band to advanced band and a leader. It has been a true pleasure working with Kyle weekly and watching my son grow in his love and ability on the clarinet.”
— The Treister Family, Student since 2020
“After a 30-year hiatus, I became reacquainted with the clarinet and began lessons with Kyle. We meet virtually once a week. He effectively meets students where they are on their musical journey, bringing an enthusiastic yet rigorous approach to teaching, with an emphasis on developing strong fundamentals. I have learned so much from Kyle, who has helped me rediscover music as an integral part of a full life.”
— Cheryl, Virtual Student Since 2021
I am an older student who has returned to playing on a regular basis for the first time since the 1980s. I really appreciate Kyle’s holistic approach to teaching. In addition to working on the basics of playing, such as having a good embouchure and properly articulating tricky passages, Kyle has been helping me with better practice habits, teaching me to think more musically when interpreting a piece, and explaining how to use my air properly for a fuller and smoother sound. Thanks to my lessons, I once again have the confidence to play with other musicians and in front of friends and family.