Music Lessons in East Granby, CT

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning students, I use Faber Methods. Once the student has progressed, I would introduce solo repertoire that supports the skills necessary for improvement. Usually, I ask students if they are DYING to learn a piece, and with that selection, I'll look for techniques that can be improved upon. For adults, I try to ask what they are interested in learning, and help gauge the technique into their learning. Because adults learn differently from children, it is key to help integrate a different method of learning. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Clarinet

I want my students to succeed, but also make the lessons enjoyable for them. Each student progresses by how much they practice, and their focus during the lessons. I believe that each student progresses at their own pace, and each student should be evaluated for the best method of improvement. I believe in positive reinforcement. Making students aware of their progress is important for self motivation, which I think is essential to learning an instrument. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I am new to the teaching aspect of music, however, I will be attending UMass Amherst in the Fall to get my Teacher's License. I am interested in private lessons because it offers a more personal one-on-one experience in which I can shape the curriculum specifically to the student's needs and desires. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

For elementary students and some middle schoolers, I usually either work out of Standard of Excellence or Essential Elements book 1 to begin their studies or continue where they left off. For high schoolers and more advanced middle schoolers, I like to have them play solo flute pieces that fit with their ability level. If the student is in band at school, I also work through that music with them if they are interested. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar

I have found, especially for beginner and younger students (I.E. friends and family members I have taught), it is best to first see where they are in ability to play the instrument. From there, we work on correcting bad habits that develop from being self taught, things such as poor picking technique, finger placement, hand placement, minimal understanding of rhythm and basic theory concepts. Then we discuss what the student would like to learn, and after a solid foundation of basic concepts has been developed, I can create more personalized lessons from there! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Viola Banjo Ukulele

My students cover a wide range, from bluegrass to concert classical. The correct technique is, in my experience, the one that will be able to underlay any musical style. For example, if the left hand is flexible and well-formed, then blues, Bach and flamenco all will come more easily. This core is essential, because even at the most beginning stages, the student should be able to play with musical expression. Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin Electric Violin Music

For all of my students, I let them pick a song (vocal) or piece (violin) that they would like to sing or play. This way I can analyze what level they are on. For my voice students, I start with vocal warm-up exercises of the different vowels. It helps me to understand their range as well as tone of voice. For my violin students, I usually stick with the Suzuki Method, or Essential Elements books, if they are in the more beginning stages. Read More