Flute Lessons in Hardwick, MA

Instruments: Flute

As mentioned previously, I will encourage students to have a practice journal that tracks many aspects of progress. This, combined with gauging each student's skill level and needs, is the basis of my teaching style. I never use negative incentives with my students, as I believe that does more harm than good. I am always patient with my students and take the time to explain anything until my students understand. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

I always emphasize musicality in my teaching, because if as performers, we are focusing on being expressive, we'll convey our love of music! If a student can think about what the music is expressing, they will be more motivated to keep practicing.  I focus on the fundamentals such as tone, rhythm, dynamics, timbre, basic music theory and history. I always give specific positive feedback, along with a tip for improvement. Finally, I always go over how, how much, and what to practice in lessons, so the student can learn what to listen for and focus on outside of the lesson, and keep improving during the week. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Oboe

For younger students, I typically assist and follow the method books students are working on. For example, they may use Standards of Excellence or Hal Leonard’s Essential Elements. These lesson books are crucial to teaching the fundamentals as a student is beginning to learn an instrument. I will break away from the books and introduce appropriate solo repertoire. I will also be mindful to the interests of the students to keep them engaged. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Trumpet Trombone Flute Clarinet Double Bass Euphonium

I will share fun and efficient ways to practice so that you get immediate results. If desired, I also guarantee you will be playing a blues and improvising within a maximum of 6 weeks as long as you practice at least 10 minutes, three times a week.  You will have the option of playing along with recordings minus your part so that you can experience the joy of ensemble playing early on in the safety of your own home. I love creating small ensemble groups of students at similar levels and arranging concerts at regular intervals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute

For beginner piano students I generally work out the Faber Piano Adventures and for adults I use The Older Beginner Piano Course by Bastien. For Flute students I use the Trevor Wye Beginners Book for the Flute. Clarinet I use the Rubank Method books. Once the essentials are learned I will add in various solo pieces and other method books pending on each student and their music interests. Read More

Instruments: Flute Recorder Music

For all of my students I like to approach the lesson through the lens of preparation, skills, solos, and fun. I believe it is very important to prepare the mind and the body for the lesson to get the maximum benefit. In all of my lessons I begin with appropriate warm-ups before moving on to skills and technique. I use a variety of method books depending on the goals and wishes of my students, and I tailor them to make sure they are learning all the skills they need to be able to play the solos and fun music that they want to learn. Read More