Flute Lessons in Somers, NY

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder Double Bass Music

For beginning woodwind students, I have had success using the Rubank method books as a starter. Alongside a method book, I like to work on material chosen by the student, as well as my own supplemntal exercises. It is important for the student to understand the musical concepts associated with the repertoire, as well as focusing on performing well. I also prefer to have my students keep a practice log book, in order to track their progress. For piano and music theory, I like to use the John Thompson method for beginner students, and the Bastien Piano Literature series for more advanced students. Read More

Instruments: Flute Recorder Piccolo

I use elements of Social and Emotional Learning in my teaching: students are encouraged to have their own voice in the learning process. We discuss repertoire selection, I encourage them to talk about how the music makes them feel or what they think it's trying to express. This also assists in goal setting, which I do collaboratively with the student, rather than dictate their practice regimen. I respect that lessons are probably not the only thing they're doing and I believe that respect is why students enjoy studying with me for many years. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

A Berklee College of Music Alumni, Simon has studied with an array of professors including Dino Govoni, Dennis Montgomery, Walter Beasley and Kenwood Dennard. His aggressive funky style has made him a mainstay in groups like the Brian Rigby Band and SlackTide both of which tour regularly up and down the east coast. In addition to these groups Simon has worked with groups such as SoulPax, and Jon Oneal and the Bayou Boys. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute Synthesizer Euphonium Music Keyboard

I have been teaching lessons one on one for 13 years in voice, piano, and flute. I have also been an elementary school music teacher for the last 4 years. In my experience, I have worked with students from age 3 to age 70 with a variety of skill levels and disabilities. Over the years I developed a strategy to help each individual student reach their music goals and foster a love for music. 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: Piano Flute Recorder Piccolo

Having taught many students over the years, my favorite books for young beginners are the Rubank series and Pares Scale book. These give a good foundation and progression and have easy to read fingering charts. Once a student gets going with these I introduce simple duet books so that, by playing with me, they develop a strong sense of tone and intonation. The first solo books I recommend are collections of solo's by famous composers, these give the student the chance to gravitate toward the style and composer they like best. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My philosphy for all my students is that any student can achieve any goal if they believe in themselves and put in steady effort. One of my major teaching methods involves learning music the student listens to regularly. So much is learned from this process be it technique, time, rhythm, theory, but the most important part is that the students love and understanding of music grows, not just their knowledge. Read More