Music Lessons in North Haledon, NJ

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

I have had a lifelong passion for music as far back as I can ever remember. I was exposed to a wide variety of different musical genres from a very young age, and developed an interest in percussion when I was 3 years old. Drumset is my main instrument, but I am also proficient in classical percussion, marching percussion, and mallets. in 2005, I studied at the BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts in Syosset, and in 2009 Ireceived a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Performance from SUNY New Paltz.Iwas a member of my High School Stage Band, Jazz Band, and was section leader/head snare drummer of the Commack High School Marching Band. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

My approach is repertoire-based, meaning that we learn technique through the demands of particular pieces; I also teach strength-training exercises to help students develop their fullest potential on trumpet. Deriving inspiration from both classical and jazz methods, I also believe in exploring the physical capabilities and limitations of the instrument so that the player can develop a personal relationship to it. Indeed, this relationship forms the crux of true musical expression, which is the overarching goal of my teaching. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

The best part about teaching is seeing students grow as musicians and develop their own musical style and instincts. I try to teach in a way that highlights how, often, improvements can be made instantly, but on the other side, how hard work and diligent practice lead to growth over time. While learning violin or viola, students should be physically comfortable (because the instrument is very awkward at first!), and they should feel able to ask questions and receive expert explanations. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

For my students, I will typically start them with Mel Bay's Modern Guitar Method Grade 1.  Once I feel they have a handle on basic chords and techniques we may introduce a modern tune into the lesson mix and work from there.  Read More

Instruments: Voice

I do not stick to one method or style of teaching as each student is different. A twelve-year-old student who wants to write songs, and sing Taylor Swift, will need a very different approach than a fifty-year-old opera singer. However, I do implement two very important key points in my teaching: Honesty and health. This is done by first making sure the artist (I prefer to refer to my students as artists as a sign of respect, and because I’m learning from them as well) has proper technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

Both of these degrees emphasized classical singing technique, and through this study I gained a solid foundation for my musical craft. Once out of school, I then sought to begin creating MY music and MY sound, a challenge which continues to manifest itself even today in a variety of ways. I am now a singer/songwriter and I perform often with my own band in which I sing, play guitar, write my own songs and arrange intricate backup harmonies and multiple instrumentation. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

My teaching experience dates back to my college days. I have taught both privately and publicly for 6 years both in Europe and NY. I hold two Undergraduate Degrees from Bard College (flute and dance) and a Master's Degree in Flute Performance from Queens College. I have a very strong background in Alexander Technique and Body Mapping. I incorporate the Alexander Technique principles in my flute teaching in order to ensure that my students build a strong and efficient flute technique. Read More