Music Lessons in Suffield, CT

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

I cater the lessons towards what the student wants while emphasizing the importance of fundamentals and theory. I incorporate songwriting and improvisation into my lessons, as well as songs the student wants to learn. I believe all students should be encouraged to be creative, while still maintaining a strong emphasis on fundamentals, thus leading to the creation of their unique musical style. I generally tend to split the lessons up into warm up techniques, repertoire, sight reading, listening/dictation, discussing music the student likes/wants to learn, and improvisation and songwriting. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Viola Banjo Ukulele

My students cover a wide range, from bluegrass to concert classical. The correct technique is, in my experience, the one that will be able to underlay any musical style. For example, if the left hand is flexible and well-formed, then blues, Bach and flamenco all will come more easily. This core is essential, because even at the most beginning stages, the student should be able to play with musical expression. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

Once students are more advanced we begin to add solo repertoire tailored to the level and genres the student is interested in. With my voice students, we begin by studying how the voice works and we develop a routine of exercises that help develop the proper coordination necessary for healthy vocal production. We then learn to apply these principles to whatever song we wish to sing, ensuring that whenever we use our voice we are doing it in the healthiest and most efficient way possible. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Singing is a difficult skill to teach. Our instrument is internal and is affected by our emotions, stress level, how much sleep we've had, even what we ate for breakfast! Because of this, I feel it is important to maintain a comfortable environment. I encourage my students to let go of their self-doubt and allow themselves to make mistakes. Although I keep lessons friendly, warm, and encouraging, I expect students to work hard and take their lessons seriously. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am a passionate and dedicated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of piano. In 2009 I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in Music from the University of Saint Joseph. At that time I was taking piano lessons at the University of Hartford and teaching my own students. After graduation, I worked at Music Makers Academy in Manchester, CT for a few years before continuing to teach private lessons. 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: Trombone Euphonium

I began teaching private lessons four years ago, and have always desired to teach more students and share my love of music with them. It is important to me to know what my students' goals are so that I can tailor my instruction to meet their needs. I do not believe in a "one size fits all" approach to teaching, as every student is unique. I am on faculty at Wesleyan University, where I teach trombone lessons and play with their orchestra on occasion. Read More