Music Lessons in Thomaston, CT

Instruments: Piano

I began teaching piano to local children in the neighborhood as a teen-ager and have always found the experience to be interesting, rewarding challenging and enjoyable. I have experience teaching students of all ages (5 to 80), with a wide range of abilities and interests. I have prepared students who are interested to participate in recitals, festivals and to take exams such as those from the Toronto Conservatory of Music. Some students do not benefit from such experiences and may even find them detrimental. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I usually use the Faber, Beyer, or Czerny depend on the student's level. I'd add Hanon, bach 2,3 part invention, Sonatina album, and the list can go on. For Jazz, all I need is manuscript paper and a Jazz Real Book (I'd hand out some exercise notes). For advanced students, I want them to listen to music a lot. Listening to music is very critical, it is just as important as practicing the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For beginning students, particularly children, I use the Piano Adventures books. I recommend the student getting their Lesson, Theory, and Technique Artistry books to start. From there I will add in popular and classical pieces based on the students interest and ability. I do almost the same for teens and adults, just using the Piano Adventures adult books. I have used this method for almost my whole career and been nothing but pleased with the content. Read More

Instruments: Voice

I like to begin with getting a sense of where the student is in their musical development. Then, it's all about the basics! I address breathing, body alignment, relaxation/tension, and all of the aspects of singing through exercises tailor-made to address the student's individual and immediate needs. For most of my students, I will provide specific pieces that will help in their development and keep their interest. I have, on occasion, had students request to only work on technique through vocal exercises without singing an actual song. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trombone

A principle that I have lived by in the 45 plus years that I have taught, is that I am teaching the STUDENT as an individual with a particular personality, learning style, level of patience, tolerance for making mistakes and openness to trying new things. I do not teach MUSIC; I use it as the vehicle for learning. When a teacher really understands the nature of the student and shows his/her commitment to making every lesson a successful and happy experience for him/her, then the process of learning to play an instrument becomes a mutual and fulfilling experience. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion

I am a very driven instructor who encourages a passion for music and hard work from students in a positive atmosphere. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Percussion Performance from Keene State College in 2016. I am currently continuing my studies into 2018 where I will receive a Masters of Music from the Hartt School of Music. I have had the great honor of working with many world renowned musicians such as Peter Erskine, Steve Michaud, Dave DiCenso, and others. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Tuba

I am a native of Roma, Texas, a small town located in the far southern tip of the state. My music career initiated when my uncle, Jose F. Rodriguez, mentored me on classical guitar when I was 10 years old. My passion grew bigger by listening to recordings of the New York Philharmonic, Vienna Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, Berlin Philharmonic and other prestigious orchestral ensembles around the world, so I finally decided to enroll as a student at Texas State University to study bass trombone under the guidance of Martin G. McCain. Read More