
Sandra offers trumpet lessons online and in her Beamsville studio. With a diploma in Applied Music from Mohawk College and a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance from the University of Toronto, she brings both technical expertise and expressive range to her teaching. Her experience spans performance, composition, and improvisation, and she is beginning a Master of Music Therapy at Wilfrid Laurier University.
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.
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.
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.
Sandra is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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