Piano Lessons in Westwood, NJ

Instruments: Piano Guitar Organ Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is light and fun and geared to the temperament of the child and the specific goals of the parent. My methods are traditional pedagogy. With younger students under the age of 5 and special needs students I make use of tactical manipulatives for example play doh to assist with fine motor skills. I also incorporate if needed coloring full body movement etc if needed. I try to set realistic goals with both the student and parent bringing various rewards and incentives for achievement.. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

For young beginners on wind instruments, I really focus on getting a good sound out of the instrument first. Then, I have them learn simple songs by ear to strengthen their relationship with the instrument. At the same time, I will teach them how to read music if necessary. I like to use the Rubank or the Sound Innovations band method books to start with. For my piano students, I go over posture and hand position first, in addition to the basics of the keyboard and fingerings for scales. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet

My teaching is based on the thought that everone can be comfortable with making music. Since comfort comes best when things are fun, I like to focus on music that the student likes. This usually involves improvising as soon as a student knows a few notes, which creates a chance for self-expression and leads to confidence in playing with others. I also place emphasis on phrasing, My experience is that many students get wrapped up in the mechanical process of playing at the expense of musicality. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

Iam an active educator and performer in the North Jersey area. I teach K-6 elementary general music in Midland Park, NJ, which was recently recognized by NAMM as one of the "Best Communities for Music Education 2014." Although I am a classically trained soprano, I work on a variety of different literature with my voice and piano students, including folk songs, pop music, musical theater and of course, classical. I believe that well-rounded musicians make good musicians! Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Bass Guitar Recorder Double Bass Keyboard

My primary goal with all of my students is to help them make great music that is true to themselves. I also try to stick with a sound-before-symbol approach to learning music. What this means for my teaching is a focus on training both the ears and technique. I always prefer a more personalized approach to teaching, working with students to find repertoire that speaks to them and improves their musicality and technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Bass Guitar Latin Percussion Keyboard

One of the greatest sources of joy and exhilaration I have experienced throughout my teaching career occurs every time one of my students performs, and I get to witness the hard work and determination they have implanted into their playing. Every time they smile while playing their instrument is the single most rewarding feeling I have encountered in my years as a teacher, and I relish the opportunity to bask in that feeling every chance I get. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Keyboard

I tend to edit my teaching style based on how successfully my students meet their goals. I honestly love teaching young and beginning students because they're an absolute blank slate, something I do not take lightly. Having fun and establishing a strong practice routine is paramount with younger students. I emphasize listening to records/music with all students but especially with more intermediate to advanced students. If I have a student that wants to become a more competent jazz player I'll try to recommend some famous records with tunes that are commonly played. Read More