Music Lessons in Locust Valley, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Beyond my extensive experience as a professional in the Music Industry, I have held positions in a diverse range of teaching situations beyond private instruction. I was most recently employed as a Lead Music Teacher for Success Academy Charter Schools and worked full-time at an Elementary School in the South Bronx. In this position, I was responsible for creating and implementing a rigorous K-4 curriculum and delivering it to 500+ students each week, as well as leading a daily reading Roots Reading group and conducting weekly reading assessments. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Piccolo Music

My teaching takes the form of private lessons on flute, clarinet, and saxophone, and courses at NYU. In each educational situation, I aim to establish clear goals and assignments, build confidence through positive reinforcement, and explain concepts in an engaging manner appropriate to each student. I enjoy teaching students with diverse learning goals and strengths and learning about the unique ways every student connects with music intellectually and emotionally. I set realistic goals for my students, but emphasize the importance of the process more so than the end result. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

My favorite piano method book for children is the Bastien Piano Basics Series. Alternately, I sometimes use the Faber & Faber Piano Adventures. For very young children (3-6) "My First Piano Adventure," a Faber publication, is my book of choice. For adults, I usually use Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course, though sometimes I skip method books and play pieces picked by the student. When teaching drums/percussion, my method books of choice are Standard of Excellence and Winning Rhythms. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

My teaching experience began after I graduated from college 5 years ago. I discovered a talented young drummer while working at a music store, cultivating and channeling his talent. I like to take the time and learn from my students what inspired them to want to learn drums, and what they wish to learn from the lessons. This information helps me to develop a unique lesson plan for each student.I have had experience working with both children and adults at all levels, and I highly encourage my students to enter any competitions, bands, or recital opportunities that are availbable to them, especially NYSSMA. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I think it's important to be kind but firm. It helps to create clear expectations that allow for a student to be most successful. With private lessons, it is important to tailor the sessions for each student individually. Some students require to a "push" while others might want a more relaxed lesson. Together with students we can set goals and a progress map. It is also important to always encourage students in their learning, regardless of what their pace is. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Keeping the joy of making music when we practice is essential for steady progress. When possible, I will combine the giving assignments focusing on various topics (i.e.: theory/reading skills, ear training, technique, repertoire, improvisation...). I like to work on repertoire because that is where you find examples that later on will appear on-stage, what I call "real musician life experiences." I consider myself a lifelong student so it is a great joy to me learning when I teach. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

Although I have my own methods and "prescribed" teaching materials, I love to keep a dialogue with the student. I always ask what their goals with music are, as I will then tailor the lessons accordingly. If a student says to me that they want to work towards an audition, I know that I can push them harder in terms of expectation and material. Or, I've had students who want to learn how to play a specific style or song, and those lessons can be much more mellow. Read More