Music Lessons in City Island, NY

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

Here are the things that I want to impart to my piano students in their first 10 weeks of lessons: That I love music and I love teaching them That music lessons are creative and exploratory That creating music is fun and easy That music can tell stories That music is more than pushing down keys That music is art and involves dynamics, speed, feeling, etc. That singing and moving to music is just a part of how we do things in music education That playing the piano the right way (ie. with the right technique) is really important The importance of understanding, feeling and moving to meter (duple/triple) The concept of home, tonic/dominant tonalities and being able to hear and create bass lines That music is made up of chords, patterns, and melodies That they can transpose music into different keys I use Alfred Piano Method, it also dives into intervallic reading, as described above. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Music

Together with the student, we have to create a non-pressure, stress-free, enjoyable atmosphere that motivates the student to view music and instrument-playing as a means to happiness and relaxation. That is why I like to play together with my students during the lessons, even if we play the same thing together, like tunes or exercises. Playing together is a great teaching tool and it brings the students an invaluable experience of playing with others, which many people today don't have otherwise. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Keyboard

My teaching style is totally based on the energy and personality of the student. With younger students I try to be as patient as possible by allowing them to tell me exactly what they are looking to learn in the lessons. I then base my lesson plan on this interaction and build the relationship from there. I will assign tasks for the students to complete before the next lesson so that they are doing the work needed to improve their musicianship. Read More

Instruments: Voice Drums

As an educator, I have 10+ years of teaching experience in voice, drums, composition, music theory and ear training. Currently, I teach privately in my home studio and for several local music schools. Starting in the Fall of 2014, I'll be an adjunct professor in Composition, Music Theory and Music Fundamentals at Housatonic Community College. Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer Accordion Music Keyboard

I’m passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of music. I graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston 1996 and completed studies in composition and arranging with teachers: Donny Nolan, Phil Wilson, Dan Moretti. Majored in piano performance with teachers: Joanne Brackeen, Kenny Werner and Lyle Mays.  Graduated and received Performance Major Diploma in Music. Studied at the YAMAHA Music Academy in Japan. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The first thing I ask a student is what kind of music they enjoy. What we love to hear is almost always what we want to play. As someone with ADHD I completely understand and empathize with students who have a difficult time focusing and a different way of understanding a concept. Taking a breath and a stretch can sometimes be the best cure for learner's block. Pointing out real progress is one of the best way to fuel the desire to learn more and is itself a reward! Read More