Piano Lessons in Druid Hills, GA

Instruments: Piano Drums

For drums I would start off by showing them different parts of the drums and how it operates. After that I would then tell them the name and give them hacks to remember each part of the drum set. Once that is done I would then allow them to hit each drum piece to get a feel on how it sounds. Once that is over I would then show them how to hold their sticks which often times is traditional grip. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

A book that I use for lip slurs is the Irons book, this book contains extensive exercises for lip flexibility. I also use a lot of exercises that I either learned from other trumpet players, or ones that I made up on my own to target specific things. As far as what I use for teaching jazz, all of what I teach, I either learned through listening to jazz records, or learned from other seasoned jazz musicians. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Trombone Flute Clarinet Drums Euphonium Keyboard

For beginning students both children and adults, I typically start with Bruce Pearson's Standard of Excellence books. Once my younger students have progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I begin to introduce solo repertoire that is appropriate for their first recital performance. Once the adults have progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I try to find out what the student is interested in and guide my instruction towards that interest, all while keeping the lessons engaging and fun. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I use up-to-date, traditional style method books that include: Lessons, Theory, Technique and Performance. I supplement this with solo sheet music and pieces that are of special interest to the students. I use computer software to help reinforce new theory skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

My students will enjoy their lessons, especially if they are taking the time outside of the class to practice and hone in on their skills. My main attitude is that this should be a time away from traditional school or work, where a student can relax, have a good time and learn new techniques and nuances of music performance and theory.  I am a firm believer in positive reinforcement. No performance is perfect, but no mistake should be without encouragement. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Synthesizer Recorder

I have devoted my life to making music and sharing my knowledge and expertise with young people.  After graduating from CalArts in 1976 I spent over ten years playing and touring professionaly with a variety of top 40/hard rock bands before becoming a music educator.  I have recently retired after a 26 year career in the NYC and Mount Vernon public schools. Together with my wife Michelle I enjoy playing & performing singer/songwriter, soft rock & Broadway material. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Euphonium French Horn Tuba Mallet Percussion

I have the most Experience using the following Method Books: Standard of Excellence, Essential Elements, Accent on Achievement, Instrumental Methods and many other methods. Initially (and throughout) I place a high value on performance fundamentals. I start with a focus on proper posture and breathing. Once this can be executed I breakdown the nomenclature of the student's instrument, how to put it together and break it down. Next the focus becomes proper grip for mallets/sticks and embouchure placement for winds. Read More