Experienced tutor in Guitar in Leesburg, offers private lessons tailored to your needs.

I began mandolin lessons with Tara as a total beginner in my 40s, and within a year I was playing at local festivals and old-time jams—something I never would have imagined. She’s not only a masterful mandolinist but also a gifted teacher with a deep knowledge of bluegrass, old-time, and American roots music. What makes her extraordinary is her ability to meet students where they are, whether you’re just starting out or already an experienced player.

Tara teaches more than just how to play the instrument—she introduces you to the entire world of roots music. Thanks to her, I discovered jam circles, fiddlers conventions, pickin’ parties, and the wider community that makes playing music such a rich and social experience. At her encouragement, I even entered my first old-time mandolin contest (and placed!), which opened the door to years of joyful playing and performing.

She’s endlessly supportive, down-to-earth, and incredibly generous with her time and knowledge. I’ve been playing mandolin for many years now, and I can say without hesitation that Tara’s teaching was the spark that started it all—and the reason it stuck. Whether you’re just picking up the mandolin for the first time or looking to take your playing to the next level, Tara is the real deal.

I’m deeply grateful to her and recommend her with all my heart.