Beginning players
A clear foundation in breathing, embouchure, posture, rhythm, and reading—without losing sight of making music.
Jonathan SnyderPerformer · Composer · Educator · Arts LeaderPrivate instruction · Las Vegas, Nevada
French horn lessons
in Las Vegas
Jonathan Snyder teaches students from beginning band through college, as well as adult horn players. Lessons are built around each student’s experience, goals, and way of learning.
Ask about lessonsPrivate horn study
Individual teaching for individual musicians
There is no single method that works for every horn player. Jonathan helps students understand what they are doing, hear what they want to change, and develop practical ways to make that change.
The goal is not simply to prepare the next assignment or audition. It is to help each student become a more confident, independent musician—and eventually their own best teacher.
Who Jonathan teaches
Students at every stage
Middle & high school
Support with school music, honor ensembles, auditions, solo and ensemble repertoire, and the transition to more advanced playing.
College & advanced
Focused work on repertoire, orchestral excerpts, auditions, musicianship, and the technical demands of serious study.
Adult players
Individual instruction for adults returning to the horn, beginning later in life, or looking for a more efficient and musical approach.
In the lesson
What students work on
The balance changes with the player. Some lessons may concentrate on fundamentals; others may focus on a specific audition, performance, or musical problem.
Sound & air
Tone production, efficient breathing, endurance, range, and a relaxed physical approach to the instrument.
Technique
Flexibility, articulation, coordination, technical exercises, and practical ways to solve difficult passages.
Music & repertoire
Solo literature, etudes, orchestral excerpts, sight-reading, style, interpretation, and musical expression.
Goals & auditions
Preparation for honor ensembles, college auditions, chair placements, recitals, and other individual goals.
Teaching approach
Music first
Sound, expression, and musical intent come first. Technique matters because it gives a player the freedom to communicate—not because technical work is an end in itself.
Jonathan emphasizes efficient air, physical ease, careful listening, and an approach that feels natural to the individual player. During his doctoral studies, an overuse injury forced him to reconsider how he played and practiced. That experience continues to inform his attention to tension, efficiency, and sustainable habits.
Lessons are welcoming, direct, and collaborative. Repertoire is chosen both to meet a student’s immediate needs and to introduce music beyond the narrowest standard lists.
Experience
A performer and educator
Jonathan earned his Doctor of Musical Arts degree in horn from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2019. He has taught privately in Las Vegas since late 2016 and has served as an instructor at UNLV and as instructor of horn at the College of Southern Nevada.
His students have been accepted to Nevada All-State ensembles, local honor ensembles, and university music programs. His continuing work as a professional performer keeps lessons connected to the practical demands of rehearsals, auditions, and the stage.
Studio questions
Before the first lesson
Does Jonathan teach beginners?
Yes. Jonathan works with beginning horn players as well as students at the middle school, high school, college, and advanced levels.
Where are lessons held?
Lessons are currently taught in person at Jonathan’s home studio near U.S. Route 95 and Rainbow Boulevard in Las Vegas.
Can lessons help with an audition?
Yes. Audition preparation may include repertoire and excerpts, practice planning, musical interpretation, recording review, and strategies for performing under pressure.
What should I include in an inquiry?
Share the student’s age or school level, how long they have played, their current goals, and whether they are interested in 30- or 60-minute lessons.
Lesson inquiries
Ask about availability
Tell Jonathan a little about the student, their playing experience, and what they hope to work on. He will reply with current scheduling information and next steps.