Sandra - Teacher #4798

Instruments:
- Trumpet

Languages:
- English

Teaching Philosophy

My journey in music began in grade 8, inspired by a brass band concert and early lessons from my grandfather. These formative experiences taught me that music is meant to be shared—a belief that continues to guide both my playing and teaching. Rooted in the brass band tradition, my earliest exposure fostered a deep love for the sound of the cornet, trumpet, and flugelhorn.

During my studies at Mohawk College and the University of Toronto, I developed a strong foundation in performance, composition, and improvisation. I also gained a deep appreciation for hands-on, student-centered learning—an approach I now bring into my teaching by encouraging creativity, building confidence, and tailoring instruction to each student's needs.

Performing in culturally diverse settings—from Argentina to Toronto—broadened my perspective on music as a universal language. These experiences emphasized the importance of adaptability, inclusivity, and the ability to connect with learners from all backgrounds. I’ve also had the opportunity to perform across a wide range of musical styles, expanding my understanding of the many expressive possibilities of the trumpet.

Whether playing at a wedding, festival, or church service, I’ve come to see music not simply as a graded pursuit, but as a means of connection, expression, and community. This philosophy informs every lesson I teach. Music is for everyone, and I strive to create a welcoming space where each student can engage with it in a meaningful way.

Musical Education

My post-secondary education in music began with the three-year Applied Music diploma program at Mohawk College. My core areas of focus included private trumpet instruction—studying under Mike Malone, who had a profound impact on my approach to trumpet playing. Additional studies included large and small ensemble performance, jazz orchestra composition and arranging, harmony, and music theory.

Following this, I completed a Bachelor of Music in Performance (Jazz Studies) at the University of Toronto. As at Mohawk, private trumpet instruction remained a key component, this time with esteemed instructors Kevin Turcotte and Chase Sanborn. Lessons focused on trumpet technique, jazz studies, and overall musicianship. My coursework also included jazz improvisation, ear training, ensemble performance, and 20th-century composition, studying under Phil Nimmons.

More recently, I have pursued piano studies intensively to meet the entrance requirements for a Master of Music Therapy program. Over approximately seven months, I progressed through three Royal Conservatory of Music levels to reach Grade 6 proficiency, enabling me to complete the audition process this past winter. I will begin full-time studies in this program at Wilfrid Laurier University in September.

Special Skills and Training

In addition to my post-secondary studies in music, I’ve continued to develop my skills in business administration, gaining valuable tools for leading projects and teams effectively. This combination of academic and practical experience has shaped my philosophy around self-aware leadership and the value of coaching. Whether as a manager or in teaching, the greatest reward for me is seeing others grow, develop, and thrive. My recent academic work toward acceptance into the Master’s in Music Therapy program at Wilfrid Laurier University—beginning in September 2025—has also deepened my understanding of student-centered teaching. These studies have further equipped me to support learners with empathy, flexibility, and a focus on their individual strengths and goals.

Rates

30 Minutes: $39.00
45 Minutes: $49.00
60 Minutes: $59.00

There is a one-time registration fee of 25 $ charged with the first lessons. All Taxes are included in prices, if applicable

NOTE: Your Credit card will be charged ONLY when the first lesson is set up and confirmed with the teacher

Policies


1. Cancellation Policy

Lessons not cancelled or rescheduled with at least 24 hours notice are billable to the client and payable to the teacher. This does not of course apply to travel fees unless the notice is effectively given at the door and the teacher has travelled to the location.

2. Cessation (quitting) Policy

A client must provide a 2 lesson notice period to stop lessons. So a weekly student needs to give 2 weeks of notice, a biweekly student works out to 3 weeks notice and a twice weekly student works out to a week of notice.

3. Illness Policy

Lessons cancelled due to illness or extraordinary circumstances with less than 24 hours notice remain billable to the client and payable to the teacher.

BAH teachers are encouraged to offer a make-up lesson at a future date in the interest of client relations and general goodwill. This only makes sense as teaching a student with the flu for example, will ruin the rest of your week's employment.

No more than 2 lessons may be made up due to illness within a 60 day period.

4. Rescheduling Policy

Any lesson can be cancelled or rescheduled with at least 24 hours notice.

Summer Vacation and Extended Absence Policy

Clients may schedule longer absences for trips etc. 24 hours notice is required.

It is normal and typical for students and about 20% of our teachers to schedule a break in the summer. We do not enforce a notice period (see cessation of lessons) at the end of a long summer break.

5. Evaluation Period

There are no free trial lessons with Beethoven at Home but we do offer a 2 lesson evaluation period where it is easy to try out a teacher. There are no free lessons during the evaluation period and clients may choose to discontinue the lessons at any time by providing the required 24 hours notice. After the student's 3rd lesson the required 2 lesson notice period will apply (see cessation of lessons above).

Register with Sandra

Information for Student #1


Student(s) Availabilities

Billing Contact Information