Piano Lessons in Hamden, CT

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

All students come with different strengths and weaknesses so I decided what needs to be done after hearing them. Basic technique is very important to consistently sing in any style. A singer must have stable, and consistent breathing as well as proper vocal balance. I have a substantial number of excursuses to begin training these aspects with a singer at any level. I structure the first part of a lesson as technical work and the second half as repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I typically begin scales and exercises early on and prefer Hanon and Czerny exercises for strength and coordination development. For voice students, depending on age and musical genre, I will work with the student on healthy singing by good breath control, releasing any tension and learning how to articulate words without interfering with vocal production. Selections can include classical art songs, opera, musical theater, light opera (G&S) and pop music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn

The student decides how fast he/she will progress by practicing very hard, or by working at a more moderate pace. Once again, I always participate in the learning process, as this method of teaching will enhance the private lesson, and a mutual enjoyment and respect will develop! The student must convey to me what he/she desires to focus on, and there will be a "win/win" situation which is always preferred. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Music

Furthermore, I dont limit my students and put them into a mold- I encourage them to embrace their unique ideas and embrace their individuality as part of their identity. I am confident that with my help, my students will not only fall more deeply in love with violin playing but also become more confident in performing. I have worked with students of all levels, so whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced player, I can promise you will get the most out of me. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute Synthesizer Euphonium Music Keyboard

I am no drill sergeant, but I wont lie to you either. I know when you've practiced and when you haven't. I encourage you and always be honest with you about your progress. I am on your side and want you to succeed.  That being said, I have a fairly structured lesson. Starting with a breif warm up, we wilk touch upon a review of the previous lesson, technique drills, and then the music we are currently workung on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Drums Recorder Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

For beginning students I start with an Alfred's beginning drum method to help with reading. We also start on the basic understanding of musical concepts such as tempo, dynamics and so on.  While reading is important I do also include learning by wrote or by ear.  A good ear is just as important as good reading skills for the complete musician.  I always include music that the student is interested in to keep the lessons fun and engaging! Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer

My preferred method of teaching for beginner students is my own adaptation of the Thompson method with strong emphasis on theory and technique. A study of intervalic relationships, chords and progressions combined with terminology, sight reading, ear training and form will provide the student with skills which will allow them to play any style and genre of music they desire. Although the Suzuki method seems to be popular today, I have discovered many short comings of this pedagogical approach and often renders a good pianist limited in their capabilities as a well rounded musician. Read More