Music Lessons in Shelter Island Heights, NY

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I initially have a student work on a series of simple fingering exercises. This gets the student familiar with the feel of the instrument and helps to reinforce how the left and right hands work together when performing. Another benefit is that it helps the student to build speed/dexterity when playing. When these exercises/techniques have been mastered I then introduce the student to concepts such as notes, scales, intervals, basic chord structure, etc. Read More

Instruments: Voice

A typical lesson begins with breathing exercises and a comprehensive vocal warmup. This is usually where we focus on the "mechanics" of singing to make sure the voice stays healthy. Next, we will typically do some ear-training and harmony work, followed by songs! I try to help students develop a diverse repertoire of music that fits their goals. Most students have 3 songs that they are working on at a time: 1) a challenge song: something that's a bit difficult and has significant room for growth, 2) a fun song: a current favorite that the student picks for herself/himself, and 3) a teacher's choice song: one that I choose for the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

My goal is always to make students self-sufficient. I want students to be able to warm-up, practice and improve on their own. I did not become a great singer until I learned how to workout problems for myself. I also want to see students gain confidence and believe that they can perform in public and accomplish their singing goals. Improving one's singing can be an avenue to gaining greater confidence in other aspects of life. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Drums Recorder Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

For beginning students I start with an Alfred's beginning drum method to help with reading. We also start on the basic understanding of musical concepts such as tempo, dynamics and so on.  While reading is important I do also include learning by wrote or by ear.  A good ear is just as important as good reading skills for the complete musician.  I always include music that the student is interested in to keep the lessons fun and engaging! Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

In voice, I let my students' goals guide their lessons. Whether it be stage performance, studio recording or personal satisfaction, I will use a variety of techniques to help them reach their individual goals. In violin and viola, I teach the Suzuki method combined with some contemporary and fun improvisation. I teach theory, but also how to communicate with musicians in general. I am a huge fan of the electric violin/fiddle and am comfortable teaching tecniques and about the equipment needed to play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba

For beginning students just starting out method books like "Hal Leonard's Essential Elements" is very popular and useful or other similar method books that public schools use. In addition to working from the popular school method books and any band music I will assign different things for my students to work on to keep our lessons fun and engaging. Each student will receive instruction from me that will inspire them to practice and want to learn more and get better. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I began teaching when I was in High School, where I had several students of varying ages and skill levels.  I taught private lessons in their homes.  I encourage regular practice, and weekly lessons.  A mixture of method books and my own personal written lessons I have found to be the most effective teaching strategy. Books with a variety of popular solos I also utilize.  Method books are necessary for skill, but can get boring and repetitive for younger students.  Keeping things fresh and interesting is my main focus in teaching. Read More