Music Lessons in Shelter Island Heights, NY

Instruments: Trumpet

My first objective when meeting any new student is to figure out what their strengths and weaknesses are, and what their overall goal in music is; whether it’s learning a new piece, playing jazz, playing for fun, getting first chair or making it into an ensemble. Being a classically trained trumpet player, I have come across nearly every issue and technical exercise imaginable. For all my students, I want to make sure that they are playing the trumpet correctly physically and not forming any bad habits. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Mandolin

Depending on a student's level of experience I use either the Mel Bay Modern Method or the Berklee Modern Method for the development of reading skills. More importantly, I can draw upon a large library of transcriptions and instructional materials that I, myself, have developed over the last three decades, supplemented by recordings and videos. I make sure that a lot of the lesson is spent actually playing, and like to give the student many opportunities to play along with someone else-namely, me. Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin Electric Violin Music

For all of my students, I let them pick a song (vocal) or piece (violin) that they would like to sing or play. This way I can analyze what level they are on. For my voice students, I start with vocal warm-up exercises of the different vowels. It helps me to understand their range as well as tone of voice. For my violin students, I usually stick with the Suzuki Method, or Essential Elements books, if they are in the more beginning stages. Read More

Instruments: Clarinet

I base my method of teaching based on the individual student's needs and desires for their music. Whether that is an undergraduate student trying to get into a graduate school, a beginner looking to have a solid foundation, or someone who simply enjoys music and would like to get better, I'm sure we will have fun and learn something! Read More

Instruments: Drums Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

My teaching experience is based on the 16+ years I have playing. I was based out of a gospel environment, and moved further into almost EVERY other genre. I have been teaching for about 7 years now. Most of my many accomplishments, and stages include the Prudential Center, Radio City Music Hall, and more! I have had the pleasure to accompany Pastor Marvin Sapp, Marvin Winans, Lady Temaine Hawkins, Bishop William Murphy, Bishop Albert Jameson, and many more! Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder Piccolo Oboe Keyboard

This is a very tricky topic, because every student learns differently on every ability level therefore, I like to use a combination of various tools. The Essential Elements works great for younger beginners, where the Rubank books are more suited for older or very disciplined students. I like to supplement this with music they might be working on in a school ensemble, or if they have a favorite song they would like to learn, as well as with scale studies and long tones. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I am an experienced teacher of flute, having taught countless students in a wide age range, and from beginners to college to semi-professional. I enjoy starting students who are just beginning, and I have become known as the go-to teacher for adults of all levels. I love teaching, love music, and the combination is dynamite. I have an uncanny ability to home in on the students' difficulties and perceptions, and am very gratified to be able to help them play to the best of their ability. Read More