Music Lessons in Rockaway Park, NY

Instruments: Voice

The first six months are the hardest! That is the time when you are building up the muscles that are going to be the fundamentals for later on in your career. Although it might seem to the student that they don't see any change, it's happening more than they think! I continuously push my students to stay positive and not to give up within the first six months. Teaching students who really want to learn and who push themselves at home is one of the most rewarding experiences when they finally make it through that first barrier. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums

For young students, I would usually start them off using Bastien Piano Basics. It's very digestible, and gives a good starting-off point for both technical playing, and larger musical concepts as a whole. With a student who is older or perhaps more advanced, who has a solid grasp on technical proficiency and music theory, I would typically recommend studying specific pieces, starting with Classical, and eventually moving into Jazz. I feel that following a chronological study of music is one of the best ways to become a well-rounded, versatile player who feels comfortable approaching any material. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Piccolo

For beginners who are children I will start with the fundamentals of the instrument (flute or sax) and then from there will introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their level. With adults I like to find out what styles of music they are interested in and instruct them with that in mind to keep the lessons fun and enjoyable while still educational. I will assign exercises and also incorporate some basic music theory and composition tips to further my student's music education and lead to a more well rounded knowledgeable musician. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

Professional Trumpet performer/teacher/recording artist with 20+ years of experience. I have Studied from trumpet greats such as Laurie Frink, Matt Gallagher, Mark Gould, and Scott Wendholt. I Have performed and recorded with artists such as Brass Against, Joe Bataan, High and Mighty brass band, Drumadics, and more. I have been working as a full time musician for over 10 years. I have experience with many different styles of music, such as jazz, latin jazz, classical, rock, soul, funk, salsa, and more! Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin

With all my students, I like to first figure out their goals and tailor our lessons to match each individuals aspirations. For every singer I will assign various vocal exercises to practice each week. We also will work on sight-reading exercises to encourage a high level of musicianship. For beginners, I typically like to start with the 24 Italian Arias and/or light musical theater pieces to establish a good technical foundation and gradually move on to more advanced repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

For beginners drummers I like to introduce them to rudiments. For aspiring orchestral players is always important to build a repertoire, this is a list of materials I use: 150 Rudimental Solos - Charlie Wilcoxon Bass Drum Technique - Ted Reed Portraits in Rhythm - Cirone Beyond bop drumming - John Ryley It all depends to what the students are interested in. For aspiring popular music performers the most valuable resource are recordings. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My background includes a Master of Music degree from Westminster Choir College and a Bachelor of Music degree from Mason Gross School of the Arts. Im privately trained as well in all styles of music from pop to classical. I owned my own music school, Academy of Music on Main Street in Central New Jersey for over two decades. Ive conducted choirs, directed musical theater productions, and have taught early childhood music. Read More