Music Lessons in Beacon Hill, MA

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn

My methods used for piano students are the Randall and Nancy Faber teaching books; they are among the very best teaching materials due to their ease of comprehension, their logical sequence of concepts taught, and also their practical exercises and songs for the student. My methods used for Band instruments (trumpet, clarinet, flute, drums, and trombone), are the Standard of Excellence books, as they are also among the very best in regards to explaining musical concepts, presenting new songs, and logical progression. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Every lesson begins with play! Learning is easiest when fun. My lesson plans typically follow helping the student develop a practice routine. This is customized to their needs. Then I help evaluate their progress -- perhaps they are learning a new song. Listening to what the student plays is important! We play together as if their are melodies. Much of my teaching is mental coaching to boost confidence so that the student can focus on the emotion and feel of the music. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

For elementary students, I usually have them work out of Standard of Excellence books or Rubank Elementary method books and supplement them with fun popular music they enjoy to play. For middle school and high school students, I encourage them to work on appropriate solos, scales, and duets we can play together. For adult students, I typically ask them about their musical goals and interests so that we can make a plan that they’re excited about! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar

I do not posses large amounts of formal teaching experience, but everyone has to start somewhere, right? I have taught a few friends a handful of basic concepts on guitar, as well as some basic theory knowledge. I have had experience trying to teach younger children (under 10), and have found that most children that age have a hard time grasping theory concepts, as it involves counting in cycles and can become confusing for them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

The technique that I teach to my students has helped me sing for hours a day, and has gotten me through the most rigorous performances with no vocal strain or fatigue. I always introduce my students, no matter the age, to the Vaccai Vocal Methods book. This book has many exercises that takes the singer through all of the facets of their voice, and helps them hone their skills. If I find a student is too advanced for the book, we usually jump right into solo repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Viola Banjo Ukulele

 Stephen is a graduate of Columbia University. A composer of more than fifty pieces, his music has been performed by both chamber groups and orchestras in the US and abroad. The most notable performers of his compositions include the Gregg Smith Singers, Stitching Combinatie van Utrechtse Muziekbelangen, New Calliope Singers, Group for Contemporary Music, and the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble. Stephen continues to work as a freelance guitarist and conductor, performing in various national venues with the Gregg Smith Singers, the Group for Contemporary Music, the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble, and the Composers Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trombone

I have been a music teacher since 1972, teaching classroom music, as well as being a Choir and Band Director, in Vernon, Glastonbury and West Hartford. Especially popular were my guitar and music of the theater classes. I have also directed various musicals on the Middle School level, such as You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Fiddler on the Roof, Babes in Arms, Oliver and others. At times, I even accompanied the shows on piano as I directed! Read More