Piano Lessons in Babylon, NY

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I had a very unique opportunity to be mentored by the legendary drummer/bandleader/NEA Jazz Master Chico Hamilton. I spent a lot of time with him on and off the stage. I was observing and loving all of these moments on tour and in the studio. I learned so many things from him, most importantly what it means to be a teacher. In order to teach, one should never stop learning. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

All students come with different strengths and weaknesses so I decided what needs to be done after hearing them. Basic technique is very important to consistently sing in any style. A singer must have stable, and consistent breathing as well as proper vocal balance. I have a substantial number of excursuses to begin training these aspects with a singer at any level. I structure the first part of a lesson as technical work and the second half as repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

For my younger students who may not have musical goals I keep the instruction very easy going and well rounded. For my advanced and more focused students I let them set their own goals and then help them in every way I can. I want my students to learn how to play like themselves and not like me so if a certain aspect of the lessons does not work for them I make adjustments and we keep moving forward. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My teaching style relaxed yet firm and consistent week-to-week. I expect all my students to practice and highly encourage them to perform in a recital as often as they feel comfortable. I encourage the parents to oversee practicing during the week and give me feedback as often as necessary. When the student is young, I work with the parents on ways to keep their child motivated and interested as well as keeping my expectations realistic. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

I use the Faber & Faber or Alfred teaching methods with students who are beginners. These methods teach note reading skills, music theory, aural and ear training skills, sight reading, and transposition. If you are a transfer student and have worked with a previous instructor, I'm happy to use the method books you're familiar with. For intermediate and advanced players, the focus is on technique and piano repertoire. I expect all of my students to practice regularly and will help you strategize the best way to incorporate successful practice methods into your training. Read More

Instruments: Piano

There is no single definitive teaching method series. I try to tailor the method to the individual. For the beginning student, my personal favorite series is the Diller-Quaile because it offers a gradual and steady progression from basic to more complex. Also, the material presented is far more interesting than in most other collections. For a more advanced student, I generally assess their capabilities and very often introduce them to the Bach two and three part Inventions. Read More