Music Lessons in Queensbridge, NY

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

My teaching career began nearly 20 years ago as the assistant director of a concert band for senior citizens! I was about halfway through college when a music education professor asked me if I'd like the opportunity. From there I went on to teach full time or as a clinician and many middle and high schools in the DFW area, as well as Baylor University. My time living abroad in Brazil and Korea gave me the opportunity to work with both younger (elementary) and older (adult) students in very diverse environments. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Organ Synthesizer

The way I teach is the way I was taught, using methods that were in place when I was a kid, some of these techniques date back to the 1800's. I believe in teaching scales, and also the Carl Czerny exercises and etudes, pieces that are designed to get beginners up to the advanced level. I incorporate elementary theory into the scales by including chord cadence patterns and inversions so as to make the technical transition from method books to playing actual classical pieces and songs as smoothly and as quickly as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Flute Drums Synthesizer Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Ive been a private music teacher for 10 years. I've helped students reach their goals, either for a competition or for leisure. Over the years I've taught many students of different ages and backgrounds and I've learned to adapt my lesson plans to work for them. Everyone learns differently at different paces so I've developed the patience and perseverance that it takes to work hard with students and bring to light their potential. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I have been teaching for more than four years, and each time I encounter a student, I encounter new challenges. I am somewhat stern, yet kind, and I can easily make students laugh. I also try to find out more about the subject that each student likes so that we can both incorporate a bit of fun into the lesson. My sense of humor has come in handy more that once when I find that a student is struggling. Read More

Instruments: Voice Drums

The greatest feeling is seeing my students build a stronger passion and appreciation for the art form! It's crucial for me that students are reminded that progression is made at his or her own pace. A common thing I notice from students is that some feel that others around them may seem to be ahead of them. It's important to me to encourage students to feel very comfortable and relaxed at their level so that they understand that they are not late or early, but on their right timing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Synthesizer Harmonica Ukulele Recorder Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students to enjoy his or her instrument and to motivate them to practice and continue to learn. I do my best to have fun with the students. I also encourage my students to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Flute

My main priority is always create my lesson plan around the students' goals and motivations. Learning how to play an instrument requires time, patience and discipline, that's why it's so important for the students to stay motivated, and enjoy the classes and the practices at home. For this reason I always try to adapt the methods and repertory that I use in my classes, to the the students' personal needs, combining their personal taste in music with exercises and pieces that help to improve their performing and technical skills. Read More