Cello Lessons in Ridgefield, NJ

Instruments: Cello

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with the Suzuki Method and the Sassmannshaus Early Start books. As they grasp the beginning fundamentals, I incorporate the Alfred "My First Theory Book" series. As the students advance, we begin using Martin's "I Can Read Music," Rick Mooney's "Position Pieces for Cello" and "Fun in Thumb Position." For adults, I also use the Suzuki method, as well as the Rick Mooney books. Read More

Instruments: Cello

While the relationship every teacher and student will be different, I strive to find a balance of discovery and fun with determination and work. Developing skill at a musical instrument is difficult and takes time! Nurturing my students' love of music is essential to helping them persevere through the challenges of learning. Based on students' goals, we develop roadmaps together to help pace their growth. Every lesson is an opportunity to evaluate and adjust those goals, and consistent lessons means that there will always be clear communication about where a student is at and where they want to go! 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: Piano Cello

I work with beginners book sting builder and Suzuki. Students who start need to learn how to take a Bow first so I work how to take a Bow most time and play each sting slowly one count note only low part of Bow then 2 count slowly until half bow and then 4 count while bow. Intermediate work with klengel scale book,lee Methods Suzuki 3-5 Working make good sound and practice sight reading a tenor clef. Read More

Instruments: Cello

It depends on the student's age and level of skill, however, I like to focus on building a good rapport with a student while learning and cementing the essentials of cello playing: having a good posture, holding the bow, reading, etc. I prefer to have a process that is somewhat slow in the beginning and that gradually picks up as the student becomes more acquainted with the cello. If a new student already knows the basic things, I still like to do a quick brush up to see what bad habits need to be fixed and how we can move forward in the most productive way. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I started teaching cello lessons 10 years ago in an after school program for 3rd and 4th graders. In this program, I taught music theory and group cello lessons for classes of 4-20 students. Around this time I also started teaching private cello lessons to students who wanted to move at a faster pace than group lessons. Since then I have taught many students of all ages and and levels. Many of my students have started to play the cello with no musical background or knowledge. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Cello Bass Guitar

For 10 years I have held a private studio where I teach students of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels including very advanced children and adult beginners. My teaching style is tailored for each student as everyone is an individual and we all learn at different rates and require different techniques. I do however have a few principals that carry over to all students. First and foremost music should be fun! Read More