Piano Lessons in West Harrison, NY

Instruments: Piano Drums Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

General Method In General, I believe the three foundations of a student's success are 1. Proper Technique (scales, rudiments, etc) 2. Repertoire (memorized pieces) 3. Creativity (improvising, learning by ear) Parents: You MUST encouraging you child to practice or "play". When they practice, be there, let them know you love hearing them play. I can not stress enough how crucial parent participation is. The student needs to practice at least 20 minutes a day up to several hours depending on the age and goal of the student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion Music Keyboard

I grew up in Santa Cruz, California, and began playing piano at age 9 with the help of my older sister who also played piano. During my high school years, I focused on composition, which became my main area of study during college. Through my college training at the University of California in Santa Cruz and San Jose State University I supported myself by giving piano lessons, playing organ and piano for churches, and working as a freelance pianist. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I'm a recent graduate of William Paterson University, which I attended on a full scholarship, am a working jazz pianist in the greater NYC area. I have performed internationally (most recently a three month residency in Hangzhou, China) and at venues such as NJPAC, Carnegie Hall, Smoke, Mezzrow, Fat Cat, the Deer Head Inn, and the 9th Note, among others. I have shared the stage with luminaries such as Winard Harper, Duane Eubanks, Don Hahn, Bill Goodwin, Carrie Jackson, and Jerome Jennings, to name a few. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Keyboard

My technique for teaching students vary depending on the student and their competency. If the student is a beginner I like to start them with the basics of theory and rhythm by explaining the circle of 5ths, major scales, minor scales, augmented, and diminished scales. Then once the student grasps the very basic concepts of music theory I then either have them bring in a song the would like to play or I will give them variations of Ferling Etudes or Bach Etudes to establish a solid foundation in music theory. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Flute Clarinet Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students, I prefer to start them on a book based in warming up and getting used to movement in hands if we are playing piano. Throughout my teaching, I incorporate music theory and ear training into my classes as it creates a fantastic bridge to understanding the instrument. As we get used to our new instrument, I will recommend some songs to get started on and allow my students to come to class with ideas and songs that they want to learn how to play or sing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Drums

For young students, I would usually start them off using Bastien Piano Basics. It's very digestible, and gives a good starting-off point for both technical playing, and larger musical concepts as a whole. With a student who is older or perhaps more advanced, who has a solid grasp on technical proficiency and music theory, I would typically recommend studying specific pieces, starting with Classical, and eventually moving into Jazz. I feel that following a chronological study of music is one of the best ways to become a well-rounded, versatile player who feels comfortable approaching any material. Read More