Music Lessons in Laurel, NY

Instruments: Piano

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Bastien. If the student is older, we should progress relatively quickly and move onto more advanced books such as Piano Adventures. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I typically begin scales and exercises early on and prefer Hanon and Czerny exercises for strength and coordination development. For voice students, depending on age and musical genre, I will work with the student on healthy singing by good breath control, releasing any tension and learning how to articulate words without interfering with vocal production. Selections can include classical art songs, opera, musical theater, light opera (G&S) and pop music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer

My preferred method of teaching for beginner students is my own adaptation of the Thompson method with strong emphasis on theory and technique. A study of intervalic relationships, chords and progressions combined with terminology, sight reading, ear training and form will provide the student with skills which will allow them to play any style and genre of music they desire. Although the Suzuki method seems to be popular today, I have discovered many short comings of this pedagogical approach and often renders a good pianist limited in their capabilities as a well rounded musician. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Music

I began teaching during high school as a supervised intern observing and teaching both small groups of orchestra students and private lessons. Since then, I've gained independence and have taught students in a variety of settings, both individual and group, and to ages ranging from young beginner to adults. Self growth and striving for self improvement is an important tenet of my teaching, and I encourage it in both my students and myself. Read More

Instruments: Voice Drums

Music has been a part of my life from as early as I can remember. After graduating from Lawrence University Conservatory of Music in 2006 with a Bachelor of Music degree in Voice Performance, I have continued to perform and broaden my range of musical experiences through diverse engagement in both the classical and non-conventional realms. Performing around the world and working with some of todays brightest and most acclaimed singers, ensembles, and conductors such as Leon Botstein, Dale Duesing, Karen Brunssen, James Hall, Warren Jones, Phyllis Hoffman, Pro Arte, Bard Festival Chorus, Canticum Scholare, New York City Chorale, VOCES8, and many others has been a privilege and immense learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am currently teaching at Westover as well as have my own LLC and teaching at 3 online music tutoring websites. As I said above I've been teaching private lessons since 2006, volunteered at my high school, was the assitant in many of my music classes at University of Bridgeport. I've played at such venues as: The Shubert Theater, Toad’s PLace, The Bridgeport Bluefish Stadium, The Webster Theater, Woolsey Hall & Sprague Hall at Yale School of Music. Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

I am friendly, fun, outgoing and encouraging. I will find student strength's, pinpoint and work on any weaknesses, and enjoyably introduce necessary topics in a musically progressive order. I will never yell at or talk down to a student. Any behavioral challenges will be discussed with parents. I do not skip steps. I accept differing techniques of all accomplished drummers and will help the student use the tried-and-true, explore the many variations, and help develop their own style and voice. Read More