Music Lessons in Washington Heights, NY

Instruments: Voice

I like to start every lesson with a warmup including breathing exercises and vocalises. Students can either bring in repertoire they'd like to work on or I will suggest material. We will work for freeing the voice in a healthy way while learning repertoire that interests the student. Read More

Instruments: Drums

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Head, Hands and Heart: ( example given below) Week 1: Learn To Play Your First Song Head: A Time, A Place and The Parts Of A Drum Set Hands: Your First Drum Beat (No Drums Required) Heart: Move Before You Groove Week 2: Playing with Sticks Head: How to Buy and Hold...Drumsticks Hands: Play Your First Song with Drumsticks Heart: Clap To The Music Week 3: Learn To Play the Parts of a Song Head: The Parts of a Song and What They Mean To a Drummer Hands: How To Play a Closed Hi-Hat Heart: Quiet Verse plus Loud Chorus equals Dynamic Drums Week 4: Learn To Play Drum Fills Head: Pracetice Without Drums - Think Before You Play Hands: What Are Drum Fills and How Are They Played? Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele

I have been teaching music since high school. I have a real organized approach to teaching that makes it easy to understand techniques and theory. I have played in many groups of all styles. The musical styles of these groups range from rock, folk, country, zydeco and blues. I have a Bachelor's degree in music from University of Massachusetts Lowell. While studying there I focused on producing and performing on recordings. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

In my private lessons I emphasize building a strong foundation in rhythm, intonation, and note accuracy.  I incorporate learning theory, and playing with musical intention into every lesson to develop maturity, even in young musicians.  My students are comfortable reading music, and have all the skills they need to practice effectively.  In addition, I have prepared many musicians for successful concerts, festivals, and gigs. I create my own custom lesson plans and materials to cater to the students needs.  For young beginners, I recommend the KJOS Standard of Excellence book. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I try to customize my teaching style based on what I observe each student needs. Some are visual learnings, in which case I do lots of demonstrating on my own violin. Other students respond very well to imagery, and listening to their own imagination/instincts. Some students need more systemic discipline, others require more freedom and nurturing. It's important that each student develops at their own natural pace, and I try to give a clear schedule/plan for each student's practicing at the end of every lesson. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I would say that I am quite fungible when it comes to a particular style of teaching. I always try to bring a lot of energy and excitement to each individual student! I will teach my methods, but try to find the right language for the student to best understand. Every person is different in how they learn and I think it is important to be adaptable to see the best progress and success with students. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

It is a very special experience to be able to see a student progress. Depending on the frequency of the lessons, I will set goals for the student to reach by the time the next lesson occurs. I always make the goals realistic for the student and I try my best to make the goal something that the student will enjoy. This will also help them to practice more frequently and work harder towards reaching this goal. Read More