Music Lessons in Wales Center, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

For students of any level, I tend to always focus on mastering breathing and classical technique. I believe that it is imperative that students develop this way as it is fundamental to any true vocalist. My methods are quite particular to the individual and their natural strengths and weaknesses, but I approach every student with a tried and true structure that leads to fast and noticeable results. I also tend to use written material lending to the classical technique as a way to standardize practice times to structure individual progress outside of lesson time. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I've been teaching privately for 10 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for all my students. I've discovered that a combination of jazz and modern music as well as having fun can enhance a student's development and passion for playing music. I encourage my students to enter competitions, recitals and to start their own band playing cover songs and original songs. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

Before attending the University of North Texas I was a band director, jazz band director, chorus director, free lance performer and cruise ship musician. In New York the band directors instruct all instruments in group lessons so I am familiar with technique, tone, tuning, fingerings etc...for all band instruments. My teaching and performing specialty is woodwinds, namely saxophone, flute and clarinet in both classical and jazz genres. I am a versatile performer and instructor having won international classical concerto competitions, toured with party bands and performed with professional jazz orchestras. Read More

Instruments: Violin Bass Guitar Electric Violin

I believe in 5 core philosophies in teaching: 1. Comfort is key. Yes, there will be things about playing that are physically challenging at first, but together we will be very sensitive towards avoiding any unecessary tension. Never practice to the point of pain. 2. Each student responds and learns through MANY different methods. Flexibility is my business. 3. Lessons should be filled with tactful instruction paired with kindness and patience. 4. I care about your success and finding what inspires you. 5. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Mel Bays. Once the student starts to understand the book. I will begin to teach solo appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what music they are interested in and have then tell me they're top song to learn, I try to get them to play something within the first hour. I want then to leave feeling like the you did something and that your money was well spent on my services. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

I primarily teach the saxophone to younger students, and in this area I emphasize the fundamentals of tone production and the development of the musical imagination. My thinking here is simple: if you understand how the instrument works and you can imagine how something should sound, it takes only a matter of experimentation and diligence to achieve your goals. If the student is prepared to do this, I am there as an enthusiastic supporter and facilitator. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Recorder Keyboard

For beginners of any age, I begin by discussing goals, milestones, and how we will achieve them. I do use method books, but only recommend those that will be useful in and out of lessons. I keep lessons fun and engaging, and always demonstrate before expecting the student to do the same. Fundamentals as building blocks are always needed, but I never keep a learning plan the same from student to student- goals (that can always be changed) are what I use to guide a student to be confident for any performance. Read More