Cello Lessons in Westfield, NJ

Instruments: Cello

I teach Suzuki and Energy Efficient Cello Technique. For beginning students who are children, I typically start with the Suzuki Cello Book. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Synthesizer Double Bass Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

The most rewarding part of being a teacher is to see your students grow and love their musicianship. Music is a language that is more universal than any other language in the world! Passing on the knowledge and works of composers and artists from yesterday to today. I set realistic goals for my students that are achievable and rewarding. I tend to look on the positive side of each performance and I teach through kindness humor and respect. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I have also enjoyed working in the Memphis (Tennessee) City Schools whenever I am in my hometown, as well as working in the Bayonne, NJ and other schools to teach in classrooms whenever possible. As a private instructor, I believe that it's important for a child to think of their lessons as a special time that is set aside for their music/cello and I always traveled to my own teacher's studio and that was our cello place for lessons, so I think it is important for my students/parents to travel to my studio as well. Read More

Instruments: Cello

For beginner students I usually start with teaching the fundamentals of how to hold the cello and bow and how to make a sound, using Pizzicato and bow movement. I then introduce the Suzuki volume 1-4 books and make sure that the student learns a piece that will help him or her improve the most but at the same time will ensure an enjoyable and successful learning experience. For intermediate and advanced students I usually get familiarized with the student's skill level during the first lesson and build an individual curriculum for each student that will involve pieces the student loves and wants to play, pieces that will challenge the student, and pieces that will help the student reach his or her goals as a cellist and musician Read More

Instruments: Cello

I gravitate towards the Essential Elements for Strings books for beginner students because the books so effortlessly combine the first steps of cello playing with basic concepts of music theory and history. I then use a combination of cello duets, etudes (like Dotzauer and S.Lee), and method books (Feuillard) for technical studies. I always incorporate traditional music for the cello (like Bach Cello Suites, famous cello concertos), but work with students on whatever music they enjoy. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Bass Guitar Recorder Double Bass Keyboard

I have seen how music education helps my students become great thinkers, community leaders and artists themselves. As a teacher, I strive to engage students by nurturing their passion and curiosity for the arts and learning as a whole. It is my goal to help my students take what they learn through music and apply those skills to other areas in their lives, much as many of my mentors have done with me. Read More