Music Lessons in Churchville, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Mandolin Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Conga Latin Percussion

I have had a desire to play and perform music since I was six years old. This interest was sparked by the wonderfully scored film: Tarzan (Disney). The African percussion that Phil Collins incorporated into this movie's score was enough to send me on the path to fulfill a college-level education in music. Initially beginning with percussion, I have expanded my horizons to piano, guitar, and after a degree in music education: every well-known band and orchestra instrument (with the exception of the harp). Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Teaching should be fun for both the teacher and student! I truly believe that the teacher should learn as much from the teacher as the student learns. Each person interprets a song differently and I want to allow my students to be expressive and find their passion for and through music. For vocal performing, it can be a vulnerable experience. The voice is such an innate part of you--no one's vocal instrument is exactly like yours! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I believe that the overarching goal of music is not to become "successful" or to become a virtuoso, but to bring joy into your own life. This is why I create a unique curriculum for each student that is designed to meet their wants and needs as musicians. For example: if the goal of a student is to become a guitarist in a performing band that creates original music, I will emphasize song writing, improvisation, and ear training that is required to become that type of musician. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I've been teaching privately for 10 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for all my students. I've discovered that a combination of jazz and modern music as well as having fun can enhance a student's development and passion for playing music. I encourage my students to enter competitions, recitals and to start their own band playing cover songs and original songs. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

Making music together is about connecting with each other as humansand that is what I emphasize from the first lesson. I want to get to know the real you before I get to hear you playyour interests, your goals. This allows me to see your playing as an extension of your personality. From there, learning is a matter of learning the vocabthe technique on the instrument that lets your unique personality shine through. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

To me, it's important that my students not only gain an understanding of technique and theory, but also an appreciation for the spirit and philosophy of music-making. Whether this includes conversation about each student's unique aesthetic or vision, or the general principles involving listening, leaving space, and communing with other musicians on an almost spiritual level, I do try to integrate at least a little of this type of discussion in my lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For young students starting piano lessons for the first time, I recommend either Bastien or Hal-Leonard method books. I also encourage the development of aural skills, rhythm, and note reading through games and listening assignments. I develop technique from the upper arm down, starting with muscles that are larger and easier to control. For adults, I cater my lessons and teaching to the needs of each student. I encourage being intellectually curious and experimental in approach to piano playing. Read More