Trumpet Lessons in Van Nest, NY

Instruments: Trumpet

I want you to be able to relax! And I'll do my best to make sure you are. You are free/ encouraged even to interject questions and make observations along the way. For beginners I introduce the instrument itself, its components and functions, how to care for the instrument, how to hold it and put it safely away in the case. Then we move on to air stream. A steady relaxed air stream surprisingly enough is all you need to produce a tone. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Saxophone

After the first couple of lessons, I will set goals with the student, and their parent (if the student is a child.) Being able to acknowledge that a goal has been met allows the student to have a desire to continue with the instrument they are learning. Passing goals and allows the student eager to learn. By finding out what the student wants to learn, I can successfully tailor my instruction to the student's need and wants. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet Trombone Euphonium French Horn Tuba

Teaching has been a part of my 'plan' since I was in middle school. I have been teaching privately since High School and have maintained a studio in each of the different cities I have lived in. I spent three years teaching beginning band for NYC Public Schools. Through these experiences, and my own practice, I have found that fundamentals and planned practice are top priority. In training this way, students will find they will excel quickly and be able to perform the current songs or traditional pieces they desire to perform. Read More

Instruments: Piano Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba Music

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Essential Elements of Band by Hal Leonard and Tradition of Excellence by Bruce Pearson and Ryan Nowlin. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce more advanced method books such as J.B. Arban: A Complete Method, and various etude books as well as solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. 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: Piano Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder Double Bass Music

For beginning woodwind students, I have had success using the Rubank method books as a starter. Alongside a method book, I like to work on material chosen by the student, as well as my own supplemntal exercises. It is important for the student to understand the musical concepts associated with the repertoire, as well as focusing on performing well. I also prefer to have my students keep a practice log book, in order to track their progress. For piano and music theory, I like to use the John Thompson method for beginner students, and the Bastien Piano Literature series for more advanced students. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

When students share ownership in the curriculum, they feel a strong sense of purpose, are motivated to work hard, to set and accomplish their own goals, and to perform well. Having studied and worked with musicians of world class ability for the past 8 years, I have adapted effective teaching techniques, and fused them with my own skills and knowledge to create a flexible approach that can mold itself to the abilities, individual needs and goals of a student or a program as a whole. Read More