Piano Lessons in Raritan, NJ

Instruments: Piano Voice

Above all else, I believe that the learning process should be rewarding and fun! Setting incremental goals that can realistically be accomplished is important because developing skills of this type takes time and patience. I like students to work on both things that are their bread and butter while simultaneously working on more challenging material that will get students out of their comfort zone. I value having a positive personal and professional relationship with students, as lessons should feel like a safe space that students should WANT to come to! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Latin Percussion Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My music teaching experience began over fifteen years ago when my first student was recommended to me by my high school music director to teach a younger student privately. Since then, I have taught people of all ages drums, guitar, ukulele, piano, world percussion, and even some violin. I believe nothing is more rewarding than having a relationship to music, and teaching music has given me the opportunity to share the joy of music with others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Saxophone Clarinet Recorder

I begin my teaching by gauging the student's current ability; once it has been recognised, I then inquire about what it is the student wishes to accomplish under my tutelage. I weed out any early misgivings by trying to get the student to settle for realistic goals. Aiming too high can often overwhelm individuals, and it is a mistake I like to avoid in my teaching, especially in a field as emotionally demanding as music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet

For beginning piano students, I use a series of books designed for beginners called Dozen a Day. It is very organized and it teaches the student in a very clear way. For my trumpet students I use Arbans, Clarkes. Schlossberg, and 45 years of experience playing trumpet. As to a philosophy of teaching, I believe in never ever being mean to the student as that causes a negative experience. Instead of the mean strict scolding method, I prefer an upbeat positive 'you can do it ' approach!! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder

I use what some have called the target approach. With this method you are working on one concept at a time, and you should always have one concept in mind while you practice. Some examples of beginning concepts are 1) keeping a steady beat, 2) sound quality, or 3) smooth finger technique. In one practice session using the target approach you may spend 10 minutes on target 1) and 15 minutes on target 2). What is important, however, is that you continue to work on a target every day until you find yourself performing that single concept flawlessly and effortlessly. Read More

Instruments: Piano Accordion Keyboard

I try to be as flexible as possible, many things would depend on the student's age and background. I pay a lot of attention to movement when playing the instrument, I try to do this from the lesson one with an absolute beginner. I consider knowing music theory to be important but secondary, so I try to familiarise my students (especially children) with the instrument from the very beginning keeping the amount of theoretical information minimal. Read More