Music Lessons in Manhattan Beach, NY

Instruments: Piano Organ Synthesizer

My approach to teaching is student-centered and based in learning to practice "smart," not "hard." I never loved practicing myself, so I have learned to get the most out of my time at the keyboard. Younger students and busy adults generally appreciate this approach! Of course, there is struggle, and that's all a part of it, but it needn't be arduous or painful. I focus students immediately on what they would most like to accomplish, and together we map out the steps to get to that place. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I love music and I love teaching! I took piano lessons as a child, was in a band as a teenager, and began giving piano lessons in my 20's. I teach all styles of music, sight-reading, music theory and ear training. For those students more more interested in learning pop or jazz, I give special attention to chords and "lead sheet" playing. I have worked with many singers to teach them how to accompany themselves on piano. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Latin Percussion

I like to think of myself as a teacher that suits the student's needs. And since every one has a different way of playing an instrument, I will build a specific "curriculum" for each student. I am not a strict sort of teacher, I like to talk about what we are learning, show musical examples, play examples and generally just have a good flow in class. The most important thing is to learn that playing an instrument should be a fun, entertaining learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music Keyboard

I started teaching piano lessons in Tokyo in 2008. I have been teaching at Joe's Academy of Music in Queens since 2017. I have found that a combination of classical, jazz and popular styles of music to be most effective with my students. I also stress scales, technique, sight-reading and theory. I also encourage my students to bring in music that they are interested in. I have taught all levels from beginning to advanced and my students have ranged in age from 4 to 70 years old. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo

Effectiveness is key when practicing so I have always encouraged multiple practice sessions a day but smaller amounts of time (15-20 minutes) so that you can really improve and see changes in your playing and musicality. This also helps keep the student from becoming frustrated and developing a negative relationship with the piece, practicing, or music in general. I would like to assist and encourage my students to enter contests, recitals, and NYSSMA as well as compose their own material so they can stay motivated and feel accomplished while challenging themselves. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

Teaching has been a part of my 'plan' since I was in middle school. I have been teaching privately since High School and have maintained a studio in each of the different cities I have lived in. I spent three years teaching beginning band for NYC Public Schools. Through these experiences, and my own practice, I have found that fundamentals and planned practice are top priority. In training this way, students will find they will excel quickly and be able to perform the current songs or traditional pieces they desire to perform. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I believe that in order to engage a student in the learning process, goals must be clear. I begin by asking new students what they want to learn. Many students are not sure what they want to learn, and this is to be expected. In this case, some trial-and-error is necessary; if a student is bored by Bach, maybe its time to see how he/she can relate to learning a simple tune by ear maybe a jazz tune like Summertime, or maybe the latest single on the radio. Read More