Music Lessons in North Haven, CT

Instruments: Piano Organ Music

I have extensively studied music theory, music history and keyboards (particularly organ) at the undergraduate (at Vassar College) and graduate level. I am particularly well-qualified to teach beginners and children. GRADUATE CLASSES TAKEN: -2 years of private organ lessons -Counterpoint, Harmony Form: 1500-1800 -The Liturgy, Ritual Chant of Medieval England (Sarum Use) -Church Music in Early Modern European Cities, 700-1700 -Perspectives on the Cantus Firmus Mass -Hymns their Music -Music Theology in the 16th Century -Music Morality -Theological Aesthetics -Sacred Music: Unity Diversity UNDERGRADUATE CLASSES TAKEN: -3 years of private organ, voice and piano lessons. (Sang for 3 years in the select chamber ensemble, mixed chorus, and Womens Chorus.) -Independent Study in Choral Conducting -Independent Study in Basso Continuo -International Phonetic Alphabet -Music Ideas I: The Power of Church Court -Music Ideas II: Enlightenment the Influence of Rationalism -Musicianship Skills I -Musicianship Skills II -Musicianship Skills III -Modal Counterpoint -Tonal Counterpoint -Harmony -Advanced Harmony -The Sound of Space: Intersecting Music, Architecture Physics -The Art of Orchestration -Composition I Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn

I normally use the Standard of Excellence method books for most of my students; however, I am open minded to adjusting to each individual student's musical needs, whether it be Jazz, Classical, or whatever style music the student is focusing on. For Drummers, I prefer the Haskell Harr Method, or the Buddy Rich Method Book, as well as the Breeze Easy Method Book. For piano instruction, I prefer the Faber Piano Method Books, as they are tailored to the students' individual needs. 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: Guitar

I started playing the guitar at the age of 17, after seeing a few live concerts in New Haven (Blues Traveler, Allman Brothers Band, and Phish). I remember sitting and watching in amazement and was inspired to go out, purchase a guitar and attempt to learn some of this music. It was a struggle at first, but with some hard work, determination and willingness I was able to play a few songs fairly well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Synthesizer Recorder Piccolo Oboe Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

4 to 6 year olds - I ask that they know their alphabet, and I will take care of the rest. I feel it should be just a fun experience and practicing should not be forced, but encouraged. I implore prizes and techniques that make learning fun and a great first experience. 7 years and up - Music requires practice and I will teach the student how to practice, what to practice, and require that they practice. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I am an intrepid, versatile mezzo-soprano whose life and vocal work go hand in hand. First and foremost a singer, I have dedicated myself to experimenting and refining my own voice and vocal potential. Born and raised in Connecticut, I began singing formally at the age of thirteen and followed that passion to my Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Western Connecticut State University, where I focused on classical art song and operatic aria. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Accordion Keyboard

For teens and adults that are just starting I love using Alfred's All In One Piano Course. This book covers piano lesson materials, music theory and technique (exercises). Adults tend to progress pretty quickly and when they do I will give them supplementary music based on what they most love to play. Many adults have had lessons as a child and return to the piano to study with me. And in that case I'll give them a quick refresher course and move them into what they really want to play as quickly as possible. Read More