Trombone Lessons in Fort Lee, NJ

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone

I use the musical methods that work and produce results for the indvidual - without overlooking the need to instill discipline and musical rudiments required for mastery. For brand new brass students, I begin with basics of embouchure formation, in a fun way... using a progression of "free buzzing", mouthpiece playing, ultimately leading to playing on the horn. This will take a few days to a week to establish. The result is a firm foundation and understanding that will last a lifetime. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone

No two students are the same, and I try to take each student's strengths, goals and preferences into account when designing their custom curriculum. For brass, I devise custom exercises for the player in addition to using classic pedagogical texts such as the Arban's and Clarke books. For piano, I start students off with a combination of scale work and repertoire. All lessons with me will include learning a wide variety of repertoire as well as a fair bit of improvisation, as I believe it is an invaluable tool for developing ears, creativity and musical personality. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trombone Euphonium

For beginner students, I will usually start with the basic fundamentals of playing the instrument. This would include tone production, articulation, flexibility, scales, arpeggios, and sight reading. Once the student has become more fluent in the technique of their instrument I will start to ask them what they want to work on and improve upon. One method I truly believe in is playing duets with the student. The best way to improve at anything is to practice with someone who has more experience. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium

Begining Students I work on creating a nice tone and understanding of instrument as a whole.  I use standard of excellence training books and move on depending on students willingness and skill. Teach Jazz Improv to all levels.  Concentrate on jazz vocabulary, expression, style, and creating in the moment. Also teach meditation which leads to better practice and healthier living. I focus on the use of air over buzzing which improves range and technique vastly. Read More

Instruments: Trombone Euphonium Tuba

I like to teach one on one with all age groups. I start beginners out on basic methods books to understand them instrument that they are holding and then slowly ease them into more challenging and sophisticated repertoire, including Rochut Etudes, Kopprasch Exercises, Blazhevich, and Blume. In a student's early development I like to introduce solo repertoire and gradually (throughout high school years) introduce a repertoire of Sonatas, Concerti, and excerpts to them. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba

For students who are just starting out on their instruments, I typically use the Essential Elements book for band, as I believe this is the best book for beginning young students. However, if the student or parent has another book they feel would be better for their growth, I am always open to suggestions. Once students are developing well in their instrumental journey, I will look for repertoire that encourages their growth in the most efficient way possible. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

Students will always start with fundamentals to ensure a steady foundation. The exact materials may vary, but I usually create the specific exercises that students need to work on week to week. Each part of their individual practice session will have an 'aim' for students to focus on while they are playing. By teaching thoughtful practice, students can avoid wasted practice time and find success at more frequent intervals. Songs, solos, or etudes will be added in on a regular basis and focus on a technique the student is currently working on. Read More