Private Lessons

Using techniques from Dalcroze-Eurhythmics, Suzuki, Art of Mentoring and years of training from my own private teachers, I strive to inspire in my students a great love of music, to teach them the necessary skills so that they can express themselves fluently through music, and for them to feel and be successful.  I feel very strongly about "success" and how that relates to each individual student.  Success to one may be winning an all-state audition, and to another it may be playing the G major scale without a Bb.  Each is just as valuable.  Starting simply and building upon knowledge from previous lessons, the student grows in an encouraging, organic environment. Lesson curriculum covers clarinet technique, expressive, musical playing, sight-reading, music theory, rhythmic training, music history, and efficient practice techniques. Individual lessons are enhanced throughout the year with group classes, competitions, master classes, and recitals.

My students consistently play first chair in band, attend All-County, District, and All-State Band, and rank superior at Solo and Ensemble Festival. Sweedy Studio of Music members have also majored in music education or clarinet performance in college. While only a few of my students pursue careers in music, nearly all maintain their love of music and clarinet playing throughout their lives. I have many students who are adults who have returned to the clarinet or are picking it up for the first time.

Students of all ages and abilities are welcome to study with me by appointment via Skype/FaceTime or in Leesburg, Virginia.

60 Minute Lessons are $90

45 Minute Lessons are $67.50

30 Minute Lessons are $45

Spots are limited, so please contact Catina at csweedy@gmail.com for more information today!

Group Lessons!


Group lessons are 45 minutes long and are a great way for students to interact with and learn from each other and me. PDFs of scales and music will be provided. 

Each week students will:

  • Begin with embouchure check in.
  • Play a group warm-up together that students can use as their practice warm-up for the week.
  • Cover one new fundamental technique such as articulations, breathing, voicing, hand position, how to prevent squeaks, beautiful sound, music reading, and more.
  • Learn new rhythms.
  • Learn a new song or scale.
  • Have a chance to play by themselves for constructive feedback from me.