Piano Lessons in Montauk, NY

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder Piccolo Oboe Keyboard

I started teaching when I was in college just a few private lessons here and there, which eventually landed my first job at a private school teaching clarinet. I have had students from 5th-9th grade primary at this studio with skill levels ranging from complete beginner to pre-college advanced. I have also taught many other instruments in smaller studios and can teach advanced students in any woodwind, and beginners on any other instrument in my profile. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer Recorder Piccolo

For novice students, I will most likely start with a method book such as one from the Essential Element's series. However, I will typically move students through the method book quickly and get right into performance repertoire that is appropriate for their age and level. Composing your own pieces and learning to improvise are extremely important in my method of teaching so I will also start teaching students how to write their own music as soon as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer

My preferred method of teaching for beginner students is my own adaptation of the Thompson method with strong emphasis on theory and technique. A study of intervalic relationships, chords and progressions combined with terminology, sight reading, ear training and form will provide the student with skills which will allow them to play any style and genre of music they desire. Although the Suzuki method seems to be popular today, I have discovered many short comings of this pedagogical approach and often renders a good pianist limited in their capabilities as a well rounded musician. Read More

Instruments: Piano

There are many method books available, one that I have used is "Piano Adventures" by Nancy and Randall Faber. There are many series of books now available with varied styles of music from beginning to intermediate levels such as those by Martha Mier, Robert Vandall and Christopher. Very young students and sometimes even those who are older have difficulty understanding musical notation and it is useful to teach them by rote while also improving reading skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Ukulele Recorder Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Music Acoustic Guitar

I firmly believe in starting with the basics of singing for younger students, however they should have fun as well as learn. Giving them a choice in at least one song we do every so often, to me, is the way to keep them interested in the art. As the students get older, I attempt to have them sing in multiple genres and languages, as to broaden their experience and see what they like. Read More