Music Lessons in Brookfield, MA

Instruments: Violin Viola

For my beginning students, I typically start with scales, then some technical exercises that usually come from Simon Fischer Basics book, and a short piece that employ one of the scales with the techniques. Once the student understands the fundamentals, I introduce solo repertoire that is considered essential to know for their instrument as well as sight-reading techniques. Once the student becomes more advanced, I show them works that I believe will peak their interest along with pieces that are overlooked such as pieces by women or minority composers. Read More

Instruments: Flute

As mentioned previously, I will encourage students to have a practice journal that tracks many aspects of progress. This, combined with gauging each student's skill level and needs, is the basis of my teaching style. I never use negative incentives with my students, as I believe that does more harm than good. I am always patient with my students and take the time to explain anything until my students understand. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been a player, performer, and student of the guitar for over 35 years. Growing up in Western Massachusetts, I began learning a solid classic rock/pop base of guitar music (along with the obligatory heavy metal years as a teen, and playing in garage bands), taking lessons in school and privately. I was later exposed to classical and jazz music, through lessons with Berklee alum Robert Ferrier, and went on to study at Holyoke Community College and Westfield State College, earning degrees in Jazz Studies and Performance. Read More

Instruments: Flute

For beginning students, I start teaching fundamentals through the Rubank Essential Elements book. As students move toward intermediate-advanced levels I introduce the Jeanne Baxtresser book of Orchestral Excerpts and the Taffanel-Gaubert book for technique. I bring in a piece each lesson for sight-reading practice to encourage students to read music on their toes. Additionally, through practicing scales, students learn music theory and notation. At the end of each lesson, I give students a musical goal for their next lesson to motivate active participation in their learning process. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I started playing the violin when i was 5 years old, I went to Hamilton Country Day School in Attleboro MA as a child where violin was part of the curriculum. I was lucky enough to be the Concert master in the Rhode Island Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in the Prep Strings section when i was 10 years old. I don't have prior experience teaching students, but i have almost 20 years of experience playing, and look forward to sharing what knowledge, and passion for music i have with students of all ages. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Acoustic Guitar

In the first lesson, I like to find out about my student's goals. Regular lessons usually consist of reviewing exercises, etudes, and songs that were assigned from the previous lesson and then making adjustments as needed. The goal is to develop technique as well as overall musicianship so that every piece of music is played or sung well and beautifully. I like to follow an outline of skills basic to the instrument and to making good music but often adjust lessons based on the student's ability and personal goals, Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

I have played in venues from small coffee houses to The Paramount in Huntington, NY.  I have played in many groups and ensembles as a premier performer and, of course, as part of the "tutti".  I have studied under Micheal Bellajonas at Suffolk County Community College and Jerry Willard at Stony Brook University in my classical guitar studies.  I maintain a violin/guitar duet with my wife, who is on her way to becoming a music educator.  I've taught all different types of students and am very open and patient to everyone's needs. Read More