Flute Lessons in Oakland Gardens, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Flute Clarinet Ukulele Oboe Bassoon English Horn Keyboard

I always begin a lesson with having the student play a song/piece of their choice, so that they can feel confident and comfortable in their own skin and in the lesson space. For wind instruments, long tones and scales will occur at the beginning of the lesson, and will be followed by study of an etude and/or piece of repertoire. I will ask the student to sing through the piece, so that the student can make a connection with their own voice and with the music, followed by the student reading through the piece with their instrument. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

I have created my own method of teaching which I have perfected over the years. I create my own exercises and practice materials based on the level and interests of each individual student. I use the software program "Finale" in order to create the musical compositions that I prepare for my students. I always accompany my students on the piano. I am well versed in the various styles of music and am comfortable teaching students how to improvise also. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Keyboard

I do, however, allow diversion and conversation in lessons. If there is a song that may explain the musical idea, we will stop and listen. If a young child wants to relay a story from school they thought of because of our practice, I will stop and listen. I may also speak in depth about musical history, style, or even the psychology of music. I think this combination draws students into the mind of a musician, and gets them to start thinking like one. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder

I use what some have called the target approach. With this method you are working on one concept at a time, and you should always have one concept in mind while you practice. Some examples of beginning concepts are 1) keeping a steady beat, 2) sound quality, or 3) smooth finger technique. In one practice session using the target approach you may spend 10 minutes on target 1) and 15 minutes on target 2). What is important, however, is that you continue to work on a target every day until you find yourself performing that single concept flawlessly and effortlessly. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder

I have enjoyed teaching since High School, when I traveled to teach students by bus. Later I traveled by car to homes to teach, but have only taught in my studio for over 20 years. I find that the lessons are better where I have all of my wealth of music. I try to relate to each student personally, so they feel comfortable, and enjoy their lessons. Some students will respond to certain methods, while others need to be taught differently. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I had a very unique opportunity to be mentored by the legendary drummer/bandleader/NEA Jazz Master Chico Hamilton. I spent a lot of time with him on and off the stage. I was observing and loving all of these moments on tour and in the studio. I learned so many things from him, most importantly what it means to be a teacher. In order to teach, one should never stop learning. Read More