Cello Lessons in Brentwood, NY

Instruments: Cello

So, the students overall context in which he or she lives their lives is important for me to understand. For example, the kind and amount of stressors that a particular student has to cope with(academics, familial, etc) are essential to properly gage the degree of challenge a student can take on. I usually use an assortment of teaching books, both for foundation building and musical expression. Suzuki methods is fine, but I do not restrict my teaching with it alone. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Keyboard

Hello Musika community! I am a cellist and music educator based in Brooklyn, NY. I've been running my own private teaching studio of cello, piano and violin students since graduating with my Masters degree in cello performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2005. I’ve learned over the years how to communicate effectively with both students and parents. Highlights have always been our annual recital, our various community-service concerts and ensemble recitals with other local private teaching artists. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

For beginner students, I use the Essential Elements for strings (books 1 and 2). In conjunction with these books, I select a repertoire that corresponds with their current abilities, and work my way up from there. For adults and more advanced students, I use various technical studies such as Sevcik, Kreutzer, and Rode, and standard Rep using the International editions. Regardless of the age or skill level, I always strive to maintain constant engagement and motivation throughout my lessons, whether online or in person. Read More

Instruments: Cello

For beginners, I start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements and Suzuki Book 1 for cello. These books give a firm structure and introduce classical pieces as well as familiar tunes. Once we finish these two method books, I focus on what the student is more interested in. Are they geared towards classical, or do they really like showtunes? Whatever their interest may be, I find suitable repertoire and continue to challenge and strenghten their abilities. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola

Mostly I'd refer to the methods section. Though here I will discuss the dragon that is practice. It's difficult. Even I don't practice as much as I'd like and I'd wager few truly do, but it is consistency that makes the difference. I often say that music has more in common with a physical activity than an intellectual one. What I mean is, you can learn a fact and know it. Read More

Instruments: Cello

It depends on the student's age and level of skill, however, I like to focus on building a good rapport with a student while learning and cementing the essentials of cello playing: having a good posture, holding the bow, reading, etc. I prefer to have a process that is somewhat slow in the beginning and that gradually picks up as the student becomes more acquainted with the cello. If a new student already knows the basic things, I still like to do a quick brush up to see what bad habits need to be fixed and how we can move forward in the most productive way. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Bass Guitar Recorder Double Bass Keyboard

My primary goal with all of my students is to help them make great music that is true to themselves. I also try to stick with a sound-before-symbol approach to learning music. What this means for my teaching is a focus on training both the ears and technique. I always prefer a more personalized approach to teaching, working with students to find repertoire that speaks to them and improves their musicality and technique. Read More