Sophia S
5.0
(3)
Instruments: Piano, Flute, Recorder, Piccolo
Styles: Classical, Pop, Rock, Folk, Country
5.0
(3)
Sophia S
5.0
(3)
Instruments: Piano, Flute, Recorder, Piccolo
Styles:
Classical, Pop, Rock, Folk, Country
Where I Teach:
In Your Home
My Studio
Ages Taught: 5-80
ABOUT
Degrees / Training / Special Info:
BM, New York University, Flute Performance, Summa cum laude
Overview:
I am passionate about both teaching and performing. I am Suzuki certified and take Shin’ichi Suzuki's philosophy to heart. I believe that, by taking flute lessons, everyone can learn confidence, discipline, and the joy of self-expression through music. I offer both Suzuki and traditional flute lessons and believe that it is my job as an educator to tailor my teaching style to the varying needs, interests and goals of each individual student. In addition to teaching I am an active freelance flute and piccolo player. I love playing in symphonies and opera orchestras and have worked with conductors Pierre Vallet, Keith Chambers, and David Bernard among others. I particularly love the exhilaration of soaring above the orchestra on piccolo. I have performed at venues throughout the city including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and Symphony Space. I received my Bachelor's in Music in Flute Performance from New York University, graduating summa cum laude in 2007. My primary teachers include Keith Underwood and Kathleen Nester.
EXPERIENCE
I began teaching while in college and have now been teaching for 11 years. My students have ranged in age from 3-60. Since getting my Suzuki Flute certification in 2008, I have found the Suzuki method a great way to start young beginners. In addition to giving private lessons, I taught group flute classes for 3 years with the Harmony Program My students are encouraged to participate in ensembles, competitions and recitals as having such goals is a great motivation for practice and musical growth.
METHODS USED
For young beginners I typically with Suzuki Book 1 or the Abracadabra Flute Book. For children preparing for NYSMA I use the Rubank method with supplements from Forty Little Pieces and gradually move on to more solo repertoire. For adult students I make repertoire selections based on students' interests while taking care to keep lessons both engaging and fun no matter their starting level. Although my training is primarily classical, I am happy to incorporate music from other genres into lessons. I play duets regularly with all my students as this is a great way to learn through imitation and a fun introduction to the joys of ensemble playing.
For Piano Students I use the Alfred’s Piano series. My pre-k students start mostly playing by ear and learning basic concepts like low and high and to find notes on the piano followed by simple melodies.
LESSON STYLE
My favorite thing about teaching is seeing the light in my students eyes in those "aha" moments when simple suggestions open up new possibilities of technique and musical expression. I offer both Suzuki and traditional style lessons. I believe lessons should be both challenging and fun and seek to find the right balance for each student. It is my job as a teacher to find out how each of my students learn and what inspires them. I then tailor lessons to each individual student's interests and goals.
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
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RATING & REVIEW
Jessica
We are so lucky to have found Sophia as a flute teacher for our 9 year daughter. She is kind, patient and has extremely effective teaching methods. We do not play instruments, so it is wonderful to hear our daughter’s flute playing progress. Sophia seems to have an infinite number of musical tricks that help our daughter get over hurdles and move on to her next step.
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