Piano Lessons in Petersham, MA

Instruments: Piano Voice Ukulele

For young beginners of piano, I start with Edna Mae Burnam's Step By Step Book 1, as it begins right away with basic reading of notes and music. From there, I progress into the Faber Piano Adventures Series. Adults will start with the Alfred Adult Piano Course. Voice students are welcome to choose one song each cycle, while I choose two. It's important to me that they get to express themselves and what they like, while also learning new pieces for their repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I'm not opposed in principle to using any particular series of method books, and I can understand the advantages of using, say, the Bastien Piano Basics series to introduce music fundamentals. That said, I haven't found any pre-made lesson plans or materials that work for everybody. It seems like it's best to gauge what book, repertoire, and approach is best for each student based on the first few lessons, and customize the experience from that point on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

As a teacher, I try to make learning fun and imaginative. There is no better feeling than watching one's students grow as musicians. I think it is important to set realistic, yet challenging goals for my students. I try to find what musical styles my students like best and tailor instruction to fit their needs. Teaching is all about the student. It is my job to make learning enjoyable and to always encourage my students to learn new repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Trumpet Trombone Flute Clarinet Double Bass Euphonium

I cater lessons to YOUR needs and goals. I am not invested in there being a "right" technique of any kind. Together we will create a custom approach so that you will love the experience of playing the music you love.  I will share fun and efficient ways to practice so that you get immediate results. If desired, I also guarantee you will be playing a blues and improvising within a maximum of 6 weeks as long as you practice at least 10 minutes, three times a week.  You will have the option of playing along with recordings minus your part so that you can experience the joy of ensemble playing early on in the safety of your own home. I love creating small ensemble groups of students at similar levels and arranging concerts at regular intervals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Music

These degrees may not seem to add much to my musical background, but their very training solidifies my persistence in logical training, something much required in the study of music. In my spare time, a good friend and I have prepared podcasts on guiding classical music appreciation to a deeper level than simple song recognition. I used to arrange for and coach an acapella group based in New York. I also compose recreationally and transcribe piano music into symphonic expansions. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

I began teaching private lessons in 2005, and I have a variety of teaching experiences. I have since substitute taught every kind of subject, and I've taught general music K-5.  I have mentored conservatory level students when I was in grad school, I taught flute to non-flute music education majors, and I've taught undergraduate students that were pre-music.  I taught 3-8 year olds music at Laurel Hill Summer Camp in East Setauket, Long Island. I've also taught workshops on South American Folk Music with Alturs Duo, as well as flute masterclasses. Read More