Private Instruction

Lessons

Clarinet and piano instruction for students of all ages, rooted in real performance experience, and a genuine love for teaching.

All levels welcome

Clarinet Lessons

From beginner band students picking up the instrument for the first time to advanced players preparing for region and all-state auditions, Daniel brings a deep technical foundation and real competitive experience to every lesson. He has made TMEA Region Band multiple times and placed in the TCCBDA All-State process, earning 3rd chair in the state, and he knows exactly what it takes to get there. At the University of Houston, he will study clarinet under Sasha Potiomkin as he pursues his undergraduate degree, with long-term aspirations toward graduate and doctoral study in performance.

What we cover

Tone Production & Embouchure Development
Scales, Arpeggios, & Technical/Fundamental Exercises
Audition & Region Band Preparation
Repertoire Selection & Performance Coaching
Music Theory

Beginner to intermediate

Piano Lessons

Daniel began his own piano journey at the Suzuki Academy of Music and returned to serious study under Dr. Paul McCarroll (D.M.A., University of Houston) at Lone Star College — where he also performed as the jazz ensemble pianist. At the University of Houston, he will continue his piano studies through the Community Arts Academy at the Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts, studying under master's and doctoral students in the program. His lessons blend classical technique with musical curiosity, meeting each student where they are.

What we cover

Proper Technique & Hand Position From Day One
Reading Music & Understanding Notation
Classical & Contemporary
Ear Training
Music Theory

The Approach

Teaching Philosophy

Daniel's approach to teaching is shaped by his own journey, from a beginner band student to a competitive performer at the state and national level. He teaches with clarity, patience, and high expectations.

Foundation firstGood habits built early last a lifetime. Daniel prioritizes tone, posture, and technique from the very first lesson — not as rules, but as tools that unlock everything else.

Every student is differentThere is no one-size-fits-all approach to music education. Daniel tailors each lesson to the individual — their goals, their learning style, and where they are right now.

Music theory belongs in the roomUnderstanding why something works makes you a better musician. Theory is woven into every lesson naturally — not as a separate subject, but as the language behind the notes.

Performing is part of learningPlaying for others — whether at a recital, an audition, or just for a friend — is a skill in itself. Daniel prepares students not just to play well, but to perform with confidence.

Train your ear, unlock everythingEar training is one of the most overlooked fundamentals in music education — and one of the most powerful. When a student can hear what they're playing, intonation improves, rhythms lock in, and music stops being a series of notes on a page and starts becoming something they feel. It makes every other skill easier to develop.

Why it matters

Trained to Perform. Built to Teach.

Daniel doesn't just teach from a textbook, he has lived the audition process, competed at the state level, and studied under some of the most respected musicians in Texas. That experience comes into every lesson.

TMEA Region Band — soprano clarinet (multiple years)

TCCBDA All-State — 3rd chair in the state (2nd year)

The Woodlands High School Wind Ensemble

Lone Star College Jazz Ensemble — pianist

Spirit of Houston Marching Band — University of Houston

Clarinet studies: Dr. Roberto DeGuzman (D.M.A., UH) & Jennifer Daniels (M.M., UH)

Clarinet studies continuing: Sasha Potiomkin — University of Houston

Piano studies: Dr. Paul McCarroll (D.M.A., UH) — Lone Star College

Piano studies continuing: Community Arts Academy, Kathrine G. McGovern College of the Arts (UH)

Transferring to University of Houston — Clarinet Performance & Music Education

Returning to Conroe ISD as clarinet lessons instructor

Ready to Start?

Whether you're a complete beginner or preparing for a competitive audition, Daniel would love to work with you. Reach out to discuss availability, rates, and scheduling.

Get in Touch