Frederick Vaughan-Instructor

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Bio

A native of Dinwiddie County, Frederick is a versatile, multi-instrumentalist.  He has spent nearly 20 years performing with the Busch Gardens polka band, touring the world with Navy Bands, performing with critically acclaimed big bands, performing classical recitals, and gigging with various pit orchestras,  churches, function bands, and chamber groups.  As an educator, he has maintained a private lesson studio where he has taught clarinet, saxophone, flute, piano, and guitar to hundreds of students at all levels.  Students range from kindergartners learning the fundamentals of rhythm and melody, to teenagers in all-state bands with college scholarships, to adults wanting to learn a new skill.  In addition to private studio lessons, Frederick has also had the privilege of working with top-rated public school music programs.  Frederick studied liberal arts, woodwind performance, and music education at the Armed Forces School of Music, Florida State College at Jacksonville, and the University of North Florida.  

 

When he's not in the studio or at a gig, Frederick enjoys spending time with his two children and partner/office manager, Jennifer.  The family can be found fishing, cooking family meals, canoeing, and playing with their two dogs.  Frederick also enjoys reading, woodworking, gardening, and fishing.

 

My Teaching Philosophy

When working with beginning music students, my approach is to keep the lesson light and entertaining for everyone.  We use games, friendly competition, activities, recitals, and group discussion.  All of this helps to develop the fundamentals needed to read music, interpret music theory, play with correct form, and function within a musical group.  For advanced students, there is more focus on the studying of music theory, history, style, and instrument-specific repertoire.  Additionally, there is preparation for playing with school bands along with regional honor bands such as all-state and district bands.