Music Lessons in Highland Park, NJ

Instruments: Drums

I started playing drums when I was 10 years old in my elementary school band.  Quickly, I became hooked to practicing and getting better and growing as a musician. I also fell in love with music and it's healing abilities. As a teenager, I played in my high school concert band, jazz band and had my own rock bands outside of school. I was hungry for anything to make me a better drummer. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For piano beginners, I generally start with the Faber method books, but I always supplement with other books or pieces that are tailored to the students abilities and interests. There will be short pieces to practice at home which can be mastered in a week or two, and frequently there will be longer challenge pieces that will be worked on for several weeks with the goal of giving the student a piece they will enjoy playing for themselves or for friends and family. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

My main priority as an educator is to keep music fun and enjoyable while you progress on a path towards mastery of an instrument. Music is an art and a discipline, but it's purpose has always been to provide entertainment, share feelings, incite dance, and accompany celebration. To retain that passion for music while you learn, the focus has to always be on sound, not concepts. You should hear yourself often, be able to hear your improvement, and be able to point towards a tangible goal for your playing. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop and hone their skills! I am extremely hands on and I listen very intently during my sessions. I have a great "ear" which is my best asset. I encourage each student to progress at his or her own pace. I encourage this by maintaining a stress free environment. Each student has goals that I help them set after the first lesson which I use as a baseline to gauge strengths and opportunities. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

I've had a number of devoted teachers and being in New York there's always a chance to learn something new by simply saying hello to a musician. I look at teaching as sharing information enthusiastically and giving a student a chance to check in about issues they're dealing with relating to the instrument, music in general, and psychology of performance. I'm a student of the directions I was nudged towards by several key teachers. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

Private instruction and workshops with Pat Metheny, John Scofield, Dave Creamer, Michael Brecker and others Performance Experience. Extensive experience as a solo and ensemble guitarist, performing all genres of music. Appearances include tours in Europe, Central America, the Caribbean, Asia and throughout the United States. Live concerts and recordings include performances with: Jeff Andreas, Dave Creamers, Vince DelGato, Joe Deninzoa, Mark Egan, Ian Froman, Hans Glawischnig, Craig Handy, Molly Holm, Carol Lawrence, Donny McCaslin, Danny Paradise, Bill Rogers, Bobby Rydell, Ben Vereen, Michael Wilcox, and others. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I participated in all the band programs throughout my school years. I marched in a very competetive Marching Band program. In my senior year of high school I was both percussion section leader and student president of our band! I rely on my schoolastic training heavenly as it relates to my work ethic. When I teach I like to combine that schooling with the practical experience and knowledge I've gained from being a working drummer for the last 25 years or so. Read More