Flute Lessons in Roxbury, CT

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo Oboe Bassoon Keyboard

I basically teach as I've been taught by the masters. There are musical essentials that must be mastered for every musician, with no exceptions. By completing one level of proficiency one moves on to the next level, and so on. Eventually students are able to grow to become masters themselves. This has always been the case throughout history, and in all fields for that matter. Never allow yourself to get bogged down by futility; there is always another way. 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 Voice Saxophone Flute Recorder Piccolo Music

For Beginner students I have them start with the recorder. The instrument allows for a smooth segue to the flute being that the student can see their fingers and the recorder does not require the same air speed and lung capacity that the flute does so the student can pace themselves. For intermediate or advanced students I will go through orchestral excerpts, etudes, or technical studies with them. I follow the same model with my adult students, if they are just starting out I will recommend beginning on recorder to solidify fingerings however the mental and physical capacity of an adult versus a young child are very different. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I find that it is imperative to acknowledge accomplishments so that student's have the desire to grow and progress. I do not believe in setting "practice times" as I find that can create very unhealthy practice habits physically and emotionally. Instead, I teach my students to listen to their body and their emotions as to when they want to practice - this will lead to them becoming confident musicians while also growing their love for music! Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

For elementary students and some middle schoolers, I usually either work out of Standard of Excellence or Essential Elements book 1 to begin their studies or continue where they left off. For high schoolers and more advanced middle schoolers, I like to have them play solo flute pieces that fit with their ability level. If the student is in band at school, I also work through that music with them if they are interested. Read More

Instruments: Flute Music

Always start with the basics to build upon a strong foundation. For beginners, I typically recommend the Rubank series (now part of the Hal Leonard Corporation), likely the Rubank Elementary Method, or E. Wagner Foundation to Flute Playing, depending upon what level they've already achieved. I teach both to the book and to the student's needs preferences; thus, we may progress on a page-by-page basis, covering approximately 1 book page per week with a weekly 45-minute lesson to review and then progress, or focus on areas the student needs to strengthen, such as practicing long-tones to improve tone strength and quality and using the book lessens only as a supplement. Read More