Music Lessons in Fort Greene, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

I first ask each student to play for me so I can properly gauge the student's ability. From there, I assign practice pieces and songs that work on the techniques that require the most work. I have used this method for years and all of my students have found this to be the easiest and fastest way to improve. The practice pieces I write are written in the genre that the student wishes to practice. Read More

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

I'm very nice and patient with students, but I'm also very sink-or-swim. For example, if a student is trying to play a melody they know, I won't simply write it out for them and have them recite it: I'll push them to figure it out themselves and develop their ear. I'll of course step in at any significant roadblocks but people tend to make a lot of progress when they're pushed to do it themselves. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola

Mostly I'd refer to the methods section. Though here I will discuss the dragon that is practice. It's difficult. Even I don't practice as much as I'd like and I'd wager few truly do, but it is consistency that makes the difference. I often say that music has more in common with a physical activity than an intellectual one. What I mean is, you can learn a fact and know it. Read More

Instruments: Piano Harp

Piano:  I have played piano since I was 7 .  I have been teaching piano privately for the past 5-10 years in my home or in a studio.   I encourage students to learn to read music well and also learn about the composer and the musical intentions behind each piece. Harp:  I have played harp since I was 18 and perform regularly.  I have taught privately for the past 5-10 years and I can teach various techniques and repetiore that I have learned over the years.  I also believe and want to pass on love and respect for the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

My approach depends completely upon the genre and goals of my students and their skill level. For beginners, I must always take a lesson to explain exactly what each part of the instrument is and how it works. For rock and pop students, the very first thing I will teach them are open chords and the pentatonic scale, and maybe even a simple song depending upon the student. For classical, I like to start out with simple sight reading exercises and move on to material that applies the principles I teach. Read More

Instruments: Voice

My method of teaching is centered around building technique and encouraging hard work, all whilst finding the inspiration within and keeping my students excited to learn.  In the first lesson, I have the student bring me a list of goals and then prepare future lessons individually tailored to their needs.  I teach vocal and breathing technique, repertoire and interpretation.  I also provide exercises that help tackle performance anxiety for those that need help with this common problem.  For my jazz students, I also offer the opportunity to learn improvisation and scatting.  Read More