Piano Lessons in Clifton Springs, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Music

I have experience teaching private students from beginner to advanced levels and with students of all ages. Teaching voice requires the knowledge to help shape and expand technique in a healthy and appropriate manner, which I have developed during my years at Eastman. I also encourage my students to explore all different genres and work to apply the technique across all styles. I myself have performed in many musical productions and operas. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

I think it's important for students to learn from all styles of music; but if they enjoy one style in particular, I believe it's important to study this style with them and help them to improve upon it. I love understanding what makes each individual unique; so I really listen to them and design a curriculum based on their likes; challenging them to appreciate all styles of music; and encouraging them to become fluent in various genres, time periods and methods. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I always try to adapt to the student's preferences as far as learning, playing, length of lesson, amount of information, all-around comfortability. Goals are important, but so is acknowledging a student's progress and accomplishment / improvement. I do not believe in negative reinforcement, I'm very patient. Piano is a very difficult instrument to learn, at first it can be extremely overwhelming (especially for a pre-teen) so it's super important to take it one step at a time and have the first couple lessons be laid-back and relaxed, with no pressure. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Mandolin Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Conga Latin Percussion

Feeling and noticing that there has been gradual success is key to inspiring students to continue with their instrument. Playing a musical instrument presents numerous challenges mentally, physically, and sometimes emotionally. It is equally up to the teacher and the student to recognize the growth that has occured week to week. As long as the work is being put forth by both parties, finding success (even if small) will not be a difficult feat. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning children, I typically like to use the Alfred series of beginner books depending on the instrument. I also like the students to rely on their ears just as equally, so the other half of the lesson is usually dedicated to learning music without relying on reading music. Of course, this is all dependent on the student's needs or prior experience. More importantly, I want to teach the student what they are truly interested in with music, and I have plenty of material to discuss if they are unsure of this interest. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Banjo Mandolin Tuba Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Yes for teaching piano I use Nancy and Randall Faber's books. I have used all of them. For guitar and mandolin I generally do not use a "book". As the lessons progress I might introduce a book if that is what is called for. All orchestral instruments call for the structure of a book and I augment that with my own explanations. This is true for all ages of learners. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

For beginning students, I'd introduce the mechanism of the piano to them to help better understand how the sound is produced through striking the keys. I will also start with technique-building books such as Hanon, Czerny, as well as some easy beginner repertoire for them to learn. for intermediates to advanced level students, I would provide them with a more sophisticated list of repertoires, or any pieces they wish to learn! Read More