Music Lessons in Central Riverdale, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am all about making sure that my students are receiving enthusiasm and inspiration. I think the best way is to customize every lesson to each student and their learning style. I like to create lesson plans/practice schedules so that my student and I can keep track of growth and accomplishing goals. I will help the student in whatever way I can to achieve their musical goals. I make myself available for any student. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I draw attention to the importance of listening and help the student identify what to listen for. There is nothing more frustrating than practicing a particular fill 1000 times, only to later realize you've been practicing it incorrectly. This is very common among drummers young and old, but is easily dealt with by simply cultivating a sense of listening and apt imitation. However, I do not endorse perfectionism as a means of effective learning either, and I also will remind the student of the fact that sometimes when you're jamming,even if what what you're playing is not perfect, it's "good enough for rock and roll." This is part of the attitude of rock and roll that I feel is conducive to better, faster learning: a willingness to make mistakes, acknowledge them, learn from them, and move on. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am enthusiastic about music, and my primary goal is to pass that enthusiasm on to my students. I work with students to discover what they are passionate about, and then pursue that passion with them. If students display an interest in a particular subject, I am always willing to follow that path. Goals are a big part of my lessons, but they will be established according to what the student can handle. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For younger students/beginners, I am a huge advocate of the Rubank Elementary Method for Saxophone, since it covers a lot of the basic materials such as note values, scales, and arpeggios. For students who have progressed past this stage, I introduce "The Art of Saxophone Playing" by Larry Teal which introduces some more advanced rhythmic and articulation concepts. For saxophone students of all levels I strongly recommend Sigurd Rascher's "Top Tones for Saxophone" because it develops a students understanding of how to develop a strong sound and knowledge of the overtone series. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Recorder Keyboard

For age 0-4, I have opened Zumbini program for those babies and their caregivers. My piano lessons start at age 4. For those beginner students, I use Piano Adventures from Faber and Faber, typically focused on lesson books, performance books and theory books. When students move on to the higher levels, I will start to introduce easy classical repertoire, such as J.S. Bach or Bergermuller. If students have specific interests or preferred genre, I will encourage to explore them and help them along the way. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Music

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music and find enjoyment! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace with fun. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice

I'm all about creating a good balance of learning practical skills, building confidence, and having fun (a very underrated aspect of music lessons.) We will cover new ground every time we meet, and go at your pace. My personal goal is for you to leave the lesson feeling great about your creative future, and eager to learn more. Read More