Music Lessons in Westhampton, NY

Instruments: Trumpet

Every student is different, so in my view, every student will have a different path he or she takes- it's my job to provide the map. As such, there are some standard pedagogical tools I use- Arban, Schlossberg, Clarke, etc.- but I'll often customize certain things to create greater learning value and to address a particular challenge or musical interest. For beginning students, there's the additional challenge of learning a new language- musical notation, fingerings, etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer

I hold a Master's Degree in Piano Performance from the University of Connecticut, Storrs, combined with over twenty years of experience as an Arranger, Music Consultant, Vocal Coach, Technical Supervisor, Piano Teacher and Accompanist. During my undergraduate career at Western Connecticut State University I studied and appeared with many great performing artists including the late Skitch Henderson, Ksenia Nosikova, William Braun, and composer Joseph Schwantner. As a member of the WCSU orchestra, under the direction of Eric Lewis, I was given the opportunity to perform 20th and 21st century music. Read More

Instruments: Flute

For beginning students, I typically use one method book and one book of simple melodies.  My preferred method book is the Rubank series. The method book teaches the basics, while the melodies and songs keep things fresh and interesting for the student so they want to continue.  For advanced students, I find significant, staple pieces that any advanced musician should have in their repertoire.  This keeps the student engaged, and prepares them for anything down the road in their musical careers. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Organ Accordion Ukulele Double Bass Keyboard

  I am energetic, experienced and creative music teacher with a proven ability to get the very best out of pupils. I am an expert at identifying the appropriate resources required for a subject matter and then ensuring that they are used efficiently, effectively and safely, always keen on building a strong relationship with my students. Most of my students read and play simple music after 3-4 classes of active instruction. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Drums Mallet Percussion

For beginning students, I usually work with Hal Leonard's essential elements as well as use the piano as a tool for them to hear the pitches they are playing. Once the fundamentals are grasped we can work on introductory solo repertoire. For children I'd like to make this a bit more fun as well, introducing some easy tunes they will be familiar with or excited to play. (for example, Jason Derulo's song "Trumpets") For adults, I think its best to find out what their interests are and we can target what to work on from there. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Piano Voice

My teaching style is strongly based on the constructivist method of learning. What that means is I prefer to help students by means of demonstrating skills( Left/ right-hand technique, excerpts from music, etc.), to scaffold their learning, and to help them overcome challenges by means of critical thinking and problem-solving. Setting practice goals and also keeping a practice journal is an effective way to keep students on track with their playing development. Read More

Instruments: Piano

Nothing kills enthusiasm in the long run like rote teaching. With a complete beginner, especially a young child, an abstraction like music can be overwhelming if not presented in a structured manner. For that reason, I generally speak at length with the parents and explain that the preparation work takes several lessons. I begin by introducing young students to the keyboard and familiarize them with both black and white keys quickly. Read More