Piano Lessons in Ontario, NY

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

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

It is not necessary, however, to learn chords or grooves specifically from a book for these instruments. Depending on the desired style, there may not be much use of notated music, guitar tabliture, etc. But as already stated, this does not excuse a good foundation in reading music and understanding music theory. For more advanced players (who would most likely be percussionists if working with me, though I am willing to work with any instrument at a more advanced level), we would work out of books I and the student(s) find fitting for their skill level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Music

After receiving an Arts Leadership certificate from Eastman in addition to my BM, I am a huge advocate for music in society and believe it is a universal language that anyone should have access to, no matter age, ability, etc. I want my students to feel empowered and believe that they have a place in the world of music, because there is room for everyone! I encourage them to find their voice and use the confidence they develop through singing to forward themselves in other endeavors, musical or otherwise. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For young students starting piano lessons for the first time, I recommend either Bastien or Hal-Leonard method books. I also encourage the development of aural skills, rhythm, and note reading through games and listening assignments. I develop technique from the upper arm down, starting with muscles that are larger and easier to control. For adults, I cater my lessons and teaching to the needs of each student. I encourage being intellectually curious and experimental in approach to piano playing. Read More

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

Music is very much a personal subject unique to each person, and I create different lesson plans for every student I have. I have acquired a large amount of sheet music, textbooks, and other sources that I am happy to share with my students. Along with learning the technique of your instrument, I also place emphasis on teaching ear training, aural skills, basic music theory, and writing their own music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Regardless of the age of the student, I want to ensure that the music we work on is both enjoyable for them and healthy for their voice. I do research for each individual student so that the correct repertoire is chosen! For beginning students who are ages 7-12, I begin with folk songs and Disney songs. These have simpler melodies and engaging text that help younger students stay interested. For beginning students that are 12-18, I will begin with folk songs and musical theatre songs, moving to art song and classical pieces. Read More