Music Lessons in West Berlin, NJ

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

As a student, I would dread the idea of a boring practice, therefore as a teacher, I do all I can to make lessons engaging and useful. I believe that music should be approached holistically and with an open mind rather than trying to force one method to work for everyone, so I strive to tailor my methods according to the needs of each of my students. With that in mind, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements for young students, and our lessons will consist of playing from the book, as well as working on crucial skills like ear training and improvisation. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

I love to listen and play music very much, so I try to encourage independence in my students so that they can play what they enjoy and love. I encourage them to listen to how they play by playback recordings, humming to the tunes using their voice even when playing an instrument, so that they can listen and feel their own music. This will encourage them to increase their confidence during performance, lessen their fears and improve their motivation to be a better musicians in the future. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I use different methods for students over 12 years of age and younger students. For the first group I base my teaching on Alan Dawson and Gary Chester style systems using variations for the students level and needs. For the second group I like using a Bobby Deitch method adding a play along list.. For both group , according to the musical needs of the student I might add some of my original material, some transcriptions, Wilcoxin Snare Drum Solo's, materials from Stick Control and Syncopation books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar

I am adaptable to what interests and clicks with you as a musician, so if you want to dive deep into music theory, including music notation, harmony, advanced rhythms, awesome. If you would rather learn by ear and reading basic chord charts and lead sheets, no problem. Regardless, I like to start with establishing good form and a basic understanding of musical terms. From there, well look at the music that inspires you and craft a strategy to increase your comfort and proficiency in that area. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Djembe

I have been teaching since I was 18 towards the end of High School. I taught lessons part time through college and since graduating college have maintained a steady roster of students. I focus on getting to know and understand each student and their goals to customize lesson plans for that individual, all while covering the essential and important fundamentals. I encourage students to give me a list of their favorite songs so we can learn them, play along to them and work towards possible recitals and/or situations where they can play the songs with other musicians! Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute

I teach half hour lessons and instruct the student on good reading habits, how to practice and perform, encouraging them to bring in any supplemental music they are working on at school or on the internet. The importance of practice cannot be over emphasized, nor can the encouragement (nagging!!) Of an interested parent. A student cannot learn an instrument just by coming to lessons. The teacher's role is to guide, correct and instruct the student on what to do at home to truly become a musician. Read More

Instruments: Voice

Practice will be assigned. Books may be read as assigned. Theory will only take you so far, so it is important you protect your voice. I also like pop, and folk music. So, if those interest you, do not let my love of a certain style deter you. If we cannot laugh I am not doing my job. With effort, and determination we can turn broken notes into sweet melodies. Read More