Music Lessons in Hollis, NY

Instruments: Drums

Steve has been teaching private and group lessons for Over 30 years and has taught all age groups and levels. He also authored the instructional book “1001 Drum Grooves” published by Cherry Lane, which continues to sale well worldwide. Steve has performed at numerous music festivals and has toured Europe as well as all over the east coast. He has recorded in a variety of idioms including: rock, pop, Afro-Cuban, reggae, small group jazz, folk, big band jazz, funk, steel band, blues, and world music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning voice students I usually start with breathing techniques, which I believe are the basis of good vocal technique, then vocal warm-ups, and singing repertoire. I am very flexible in following the interests and goals of the student, which are always my guide in lesson planning. For beginning piano students, I usually use the books, Hanon, Piano Adventures, Burgmüller and Czerny depends on their interests and the levels. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Cello Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As a teacher, I like to instill as much passion for music as I possible can. I enjoy seeing students develop their love of music as well as their ability to play their specific instrument. Therefore I like to make lessons as fun as possible but also grounded in a seriousness about music and a respect for the process of music making. I think that students advance fastest when they gain a curiosity for their instrument as well as the music that that play on it. 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

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have a variety of books I use for beginning students, depending on age and level, including the Alfred guitar book for kids. Regardless of level, I always help students learn some music they are already interested in, as that is a key path to enjoying both the pure joy of music itself and the delight of learning something you didn't know you could do. Another important pathway that I explore with students, earlier or later depending on the student, is to begin to learn to improvise and compose their own music. Read More

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

My experience as a music teacher started in High School, where I taught guitar in both English and Spanish to younger students from my school. Through that experience, I began to enjoy seeing students progress, develop a passion for the instrument, and in-part, become inspired by taking my lessons. In college, I had extensive experience as a tutor to peers and leading big groups of musicians. I am now exclusively a private music and instrument teacher in NYC after spending some years as a school music teacher. Read More