About Me

My name is Jeff Doenges, and I am a highly experienced instructor who uses many techniques, materials, and styles of music to reach my students at all learning levels and abilities. I utilize a variety of materials, catered to the needs of the student, including the use of Russian methods, when appropriate, and incorporate theory, technique, and ear training into the lessons. I strive to develop the imagination, artistry, and musicality of my students, as well as the technical skills. I also use a variety of genres of music, again, catered to what makes the student come alive.

My students have participated in WMTA recitals, Maryland state theory exams and festivals, the Rockville Competition, and Gottleib Competition, where they have won various awards.

References are available.

Qualifications

Member of:

Optional experiences I offer:

My studio recital, held twice yearly (almost all students participate in this event)
Maryland state theory exams
Washington Music Teachers Association recitals
Various competitions: Maryland state spring festival, Rockville Competition, and Gottleib
The Royal Conservatory of Music program, a series of performance assessments designed to motivate students by striving for national standards, and the best testing program available in the USA

Client reviews

"Fantastic.” That was the first word out of my mouth after our first meeting with Jeff. I was impressed how he connected with our daughter, Isabella, age 6, and made her feel at ease. He knew just how to break down concepts so that they made sense to her.

Ede I.

parent

I believe there is a lifetime benefit to learning to play the piano. Jeff is giving my two children a strong foundation in technique and theory and a love of music so that they will want to continue their studies for years to come. I love his repertoire choices, too, and his efforts to help my children use their imagination and play musically.

Jane Z.

parent

Jeff Doenges has been teaching piano to my family since 2011. Both my sons started lessons with Mr. Doenges when they were each around age 7. After watching them play so beautifully over the years, I started lessons with him myself in 2015! Although I had spent years taking piano lessons as a child, Mr. Doenges taught me fine points that I had never learned before. He has a wonderful gift for teaching children to not only read music, but to play musically with a beautiful sound and technique. He includes piano theory with the older students, which helps with understanding the many patterns of music and the secrets behind the sound. He hosts a spring and winter concert, which is a wonderful time to see and hear the other students, all of whom sound impressive, even beginners. This is attributed to his unique pedagogical methods. Equally impressive is watching the older students who have been with him since they were small children. I highly recommend him!

Laura H. E.

parent / student

I have been studying piano with Mr. Doenges for 12 years, starting when I was five years old. He has been a wonderful teacher -- patient in helping me with more difficult pieces, working with me to find pieces that are both challenging and fun, and understanding when my school and sports have occasionally impacted how much I can practice. I have progressed to playing pieces by Chopin, Debussy and others. The foundation that I have learned in studying piano with Mr. Doenges has helped me in other musical endeavors such as singing in my school chorus and arranging pieces for my a capella group to perform. Because of what Mr. Doenges has taught me, I plan to keep listening to and playing classical piano even after I go off to college.

Jacob D.

age 17

“music begins where words end”

~ GOETHE