Cello Lessons in Essex Fells, NJ

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I adjust my private instruction based on student interests- if a student is into composing or using programs like finale or garageband, we construct lesson content around these interests. There's always the inclusion of music theory, at all levels of experience, because I feel that it is necessary for students to understand how the music is created and why in order to become better performers and musicians. I never let a student let a bad day get in the way of having a productive lesson- I like to touch base on how they're doing, and if things aren't going so well, we will always be able to find something positive that's going on in the lesson. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I enjoy watching my students grow and watching them develop their own interests and personal tastes. I open the door for my students with a strong technical instruction, and encourage them to walk through that "door" and develop their musical expression and curiosity. Through hard work, patience, and curiosity, we can form a connection that will help us both grow in innumerable ways. Moving beyond the teaching setting, I believe it is important to foster a connection to many other art forms. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Clarinet Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Double Bass Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I like to make learning an instrument an enjoyable experience and allow students to progress at their own pace.  I also introduce them to different styles of music such as classical, folk, Broadway musicals as well as popular songs.  In addition, I teach students new skills and techniques to enhance their playing abilities. I encourage my students to practice, ask questions about the music and how it should be played with respect to the technique and expression required to perform a piece of music effectively. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I frequently premiere and performs works of contemporary composers. I have had the opportunity to work directly with numerous composers including Pulitzer Prize winner Paul Moravec, Nick Virzi, Felipe Salles, Nick DiBernadino, Shelley Washington, Gemma Peacocke, Rob Deemer, Saad Hadad, William David Cooper, Matthew Recio, and Masatora Goya. I have performed on such series as Bargemusic: Here and Now, Fordham University at Lincoln Center Concerts, Luzerne Faculty Concert Series, the Composer's Voice, and Interlochen New Music Series. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I gravitate towards the Essential Elements for Strings books for beginner students because the books so effortlessly combine the first steps of cello playing with basic concepts of music theory and history. I then use a combination of cello duets, etudes (like Dotzauer and S.Lee), and method books (Feuillard) for technical studies. I always incorporate traditional music for the cello (like Bach Cello Suites, famous cello concertos), but work with students on whatever music they enjoy. Read More

Instruments: Cello

For beginners, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books and Suzuki books 1-3 and supplement them with technical exercises. Once the student is comfortable with the fundamentals, I introduce appropriate cello solos and etude books. For children, I like to assign a well-rounded repertoire from various time periods and styles. Students of all ages can request to learn music that they find exciting. With adult students, I prefer to let the student direct repertoire choices according to their particular musical passions. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For young piano students, I useJohn Thompson's Easiest Piano Course and A Dozen a Day. For adults, I like to useAlfred's Basic Adult Piano Course for a lesson book. I use various books for additional songs or technique depending upon a student's interests and abilities. I like to use different types of music - classical, traditional, pop, modern, etc. For strings, I like to use String Builder, Suzuki, and other method and etude books. Read More