Cello Lessons in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ

Instruments: Cello

My teaching style is totally focused on the goals and aptitude of the student, as well as any personal matters that might interfere with the learning process. An example of the latter is a student who might have a high level of anxiety due to their past learning experiences. Every effort is made to understand the students anxiety, and help them overcome it, rather than add to it, in any way. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

I believe the student is there to find a passion. It is so important to find love for the art, and this is what I try to provide. A lead-by-example approach is the core of what I do. I "draw" the student toward their own voice. It is imperative to help them find their own "style." The greatest musicians are true originals; and so I do not encourage my students to follow in my footsteps, but to blaze their own trails. Read More

Instruments: Cello

When teaching young children and beginners, I use the Suzuki method. I have been certified in pre-book 1 and book 1 of the Suzuki method by the legendary educator Tanya Carey. For older/more advanced students, I use a series of methods taught to me by the renowned cellist and pedagogue Robert Jesselson, whose teachings have lead me to where I am today, and have produced cellists of the highest quality that can be found among the worlds greatest orchestras and institutions. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Cello Bass Guitar

For beginner students I always like to start from the Hal Leanords Essential Elements. It is a great way to start a student off and provides them the fundamentals they need to improve. After that I like to mix in a combination of scales and etudes to continue their technical training while introducing solo pieces to give them something more interesting to play. Starting from a strong foundation will allow the student to progress much faster and helps keep them from getting discouraged. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass Keyboard

The most important over-arching philosophy in ALL of my teaching, is INDIVIDUAL CURRICULUM. Every student is a unique human being, bringing unique perspective, experiences, talents, and flaws. I adjust all curriculum based on the needs of their students, in order to play up their strengths and address their flaws. My curriculum is also unique in that it values student input much higher than many people who teach strictly from the classical method. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Cello Saxophone Bass Guitar Double Bass Keyboard

During the first lesson, I have a short discussion with the student to see what their goals are. I also ask what about music interests them. I then ask them to perform anything of their choice to assess their ability level (if applicable). After that, I tell them what immediately needs to be addressed and how this will work with their longterm goal. Then, based on their progress, we set benchmark goals that are adjusted according to their pace. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I am friendly and encouraging; I believe that everybody moves at their own pace and strive to help my students make progress. I believe in a goal-oriented mindset; sometimes I like to help students by creating practice guidelines for them to follow in between lessons. I also enjoy giving listening recommendations and the conversations that ensue - by discovering what a student likes or dislikes, I can have a clearer sense of his or her musical personality. Read More