Piano Lessons in Needham Heights, MA

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

I like to discover each students reason for taking music lessons.Then,develop a plan that will help them achieve their goals.With younger students I feel it is best to stick to the method book's plan.With older and adult students you can be more flexible. In jazz,pop,rock and blues playing I try and help them develop a good "feel";whether playing chords or soloing.I also like to focus on improvisation,using chord scales and simple riffs to develop the student's own style.I like students to bring examples of what they are listening to so we can analyze the material together and discover what gives the music it's unique character. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

My approach to teaching is centered around whether the student is having fun. My goal is never to force anyone to become a professional in our lessons. If you want to get to that level I can certainly help, but I am more concerned about having fun playing trumpet and piano. We will do a lot of listening homework as well, since listening is just as important as playing. A lot of my students so far really appreciate that balance and the break between playing their instruments. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

For younger children, I typically start with the fundamentals such as distinguishing between the head voice and the chest voice. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for said student. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in both repertoire and vocal goals, and guide my instruction according to their goals. I will also put input on what I believe they could develop and use that to guide my instruction. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I develop a lesson plan before every lesson and set realistic goals for each of my students. I spend the first couple of lessons assessing what kind of learner a new student is, that way I can cater more closely to their learning style. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

All of my singers work through the exercises by Mathilde Marchesi as they are the backbone of bel canto and good healthy singing. I encourage my vocalists to explore different styles and techniques to find the best fit for their instruments. I also teach theory and sight singing using various different methods and tools. I am a big believer in encouraging my singers to do research on the pieces they are performing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students I prefer to use either Alfred's, Mel Bay, or Hal Leonard method books. I generally stay away from method books that use guitar tablature because I find that student will prefer to read the tablature instead of standard musical notation. Tablature is a good way to easily show how guitar parts are played, but is not useful when teaching standard notation, music theory, harmony, etc. In addition to using a method book, I will also teach the student popular songs, which is a great way to start teaching chords and song structure in addition to keeping the lesson fun and the student engaged. Read More