Cello Lessons in NYC New York

Instruments: Guitar Cello Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Do you use specific teaching methods or books? (Ex: Alfred, Bastion, Suzuki, Hal Leonard) Why did you choose them if you did?
I think that it is important for a teacher to be well versed in books but also recognize what is important for the student as an individual. People learn differently and at different rates. I am experienced in a number of books but also believe that the relationship between the teacher and the student is of significant importance. It is the responsibility of the teacher to see what works for the student and make appropriate choices in terms of repertoire and books. Also theses choices have to be made in terms of keeping the student motivated.

If you weren't a musician what do you think you'd be doing instead?
If I wasn't a musician I would be somehow involved with sports. I very much believe that excellence must be maintained and appreciated in society. Both sports and music teach you patience, work ethic and life lessons that can carry you through many other occupations. Sports are great because they teach you how to use your mind. They teach you how to continue through adversity and they teach you to never give up. I have taught sports and enjoy seeing all of those lessons learned. I was a very hard working athlete and sports teach you work ethic.

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
I have been very lucky to have many great teachers and musicians that have inspired me. I think the teachers that have meant the most to me have been able to recognize the person that I am and keep me motivated and focused. I have been as lucky as anyone in finding people that I have been able to relate to and understand how important music has been in my life. I think that it is a unifying force in the world and teachers have given me insight into what it means to be a part of that and continue its legacy.

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
I think it's the teachers job to keep effective practice happening. I also think that for students that are just beginning music that quality is more important than quantity. I think that focused practice is a skill in and of itself and that teachers must find ways to keep students interested. That said, I also think that encouragement goes a long way. If a student is stuck in a piece or song, then the teacher must find a way to keep them interested. I think it is a necessary challenge for any teacher to continually think about how to improve their students efficiency.

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
I think that it varies according to instrument. I think that if the chid has a desire to learn then they can start. I also think that it is difficult to know if a child is ready. Generally, if the child is able to put in some work, a lot of other aspects that might get in the way can be overcome. It's very important that a child does not strain himself or herself but generally I don't think that happens if the teacher is paying proper attention to the development of the student. Many aspects of playing music that might be ostensibly difficult can be fixed.

When will I start to see results?
I believe that music can be learned quickly. However usually students get out what they put in. I'm confident that I can get results at a fast pace. It does require getting used to how the student learns. The teacher always has to adjust to the student and analyze what is working and what isn't working. I think that immediate results are possible if the right amount of work and the attentiveness of the teacher are one and the same. I would like for all of my students to learn quickly but music people learn music at different paces.

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