Music Lessons in Wyandanch, NY

Instruments: Guitar

For children under the age of 9, I recommend a Suzuki-based method which involves the parents at each lesson and for at-home practice. For children 9 and up, I offer a more traditional classical approach which shows them how to read, interpret and gives them the technical skills on the instrument to enjoy themselves and keep on growing musically. Adults are wonderful students and for each one I craft a path of study to allow them to grow in skill as they master new levels, from absolute beginner to advanced musician. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For very young beginning students, I usually start with Shirley Givens' Adventures in Violinland. After some time, I like to switch to the Suzuki books to encourage training their ears. Each student is very different, and I cater and switch method books based on each student's individual need. For all ages, I encourage them to listen to violinists they enjoy on YouTube, and choose pieces they want to learn. Even if what they choose is a challenge, I believe they will be more inspired to work hard to learn the piece if they chose it. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

My goal as an educator is to help recognize what a student is trying to achieve and give them the tools, knowledge, and foundation to best achieve their goals. Each lesson is tailored to the student's unique interests and goals are set each week to help them accomplish based on those interests. It is crucial that each student progresses at a pace at which they are most comfortable. This way, students will be motivated and eager to learn and develop their skills, as they are only working on what interests them. Read More

Instruments: Double Bass

I use fingering and shifting exercises, and intonation exercises handed down to me by my college/symphony teachers. I focus heavily on playing comfortably, to avoid developing physical tension due to bad playing habits. If my student is a jazz player I work on walking bass lines and melodic improvisation. My philosophy is that the bassist should be able to play high and low, fast and slow, with physical comfort, in order to play all styles of music. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute

For younger students, I find that book based methods are very helpful, and typically I go through the Hal Leonard Essential Elements Series. Once the student has a firm handle of the basics of saxophone (fingerings, embouchure, dynamics, etc.) then I start having them read etude books, and prepare pieces for recitals and other performances or auditions. For adults, I like to teach based on a goal oriented program. For example, If I have a student who is only interested in learning the saxophone for the sake of playing "Yakety Sax" or "The Pink Panther Theme", then I will tailor the lesson plan towards learning that while still working on the fundamentals of Saxophone along the way. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have always found great joy in student success. I have dedicated my career to the cultivation of my teaching style and methods. I have coached students for auditions into the Manhattan School of Music Pre-College division among other prestigious honors. I find that seeing the joy my students take in performing their hard work has come to define my approach. I center teaching on a goal oriented system that allows students to make progress toward small and large goals. Read More

Instruments: Voice

All students learn at their own pace. I will spend a lot of time getting to know the student as a learner and as a human so that I can be of better service to them. I love having my students keep a journal of their lessons so that they may catalogue their progress as they have more and more lesson. I believe in setting realistic goals and unattainable goals simultaneously. Read More