Music Lessons in Waterbury, CT

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Synthesizer Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Double Bass

I find a combination of modern, jazz, and classical music can go a long way in helping students enjoy music and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. My students are encouraged to enter competitions, recitals, and college auditions, as well as composing their own material. This way they can feel good about their progress and stay motivated to continue learning. I am always looking to bring on new students regardless of skill level. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

As a teacher, I try and strike a balance between structure and expression. And to that end, I believe a student needs to play trumpet every day- it doesn't have to be much, but because it's both physical and mental exercise, it's good to stay with it. For beginners and youngsters, 15-30min per day is usually a good target and as their expertise and enjoyment increase, practice time goes up seamlessly. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am laid back teacher but at the same time expect the most out of my students. I stress the importance of daily practice, but at the same time try to make it a fun activity. I want the lesson space to be somewhere that student can be themselves, and always explain my reasons for having a student perform a certain task. I am curious about the student’s goals and make an attempt to teach style of music that the student is interested in. Read More

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

One of my favorite things as a teacher and a musician is finding creative ways to relate certain musical aspects. Want to learn to play funky slap bass lines? let's start with a few octave excercises. Having trouble with a passage in Beethovens 5th? Maybe we can finger it a different way for less string crossings. Not sure how to count in 7/8? Try grouping beats together differently. These are just a few examples! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For piano students, I like to use Alfred's piano methods. I find that their methods for both kids and adults not only covers the basic fundamentals of music, but they are also able to make everything comprehensive and enjoyable. For guitar, I like to use Hal Leonard's basic guitar book for students focusing on popular music and basic guitar, and for classical guitar I like to use the Christopher Parkening Method. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Fresh Approach. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. I also develop individual curriculum based on student's short and long term goals. Read More