Music Lessons in East Rochester, NY

Instruments: Piano Voice

Regardless of the age of the student, I want to ensure that the music we work on is both enjoyable for them and healthy for their voice. I do research for each individual student so that the correct repertoire is chosen! For beginning students who are ages 7-12, I begin with folk songs and Disney songs. These have simpler melodies and engaging text that help younger students stay interested. For beginning students that are 12-18, I will begin with folk songs and musical theatre songs, moving to art song and classical pieces. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Banjo Mandolin Tuba Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Yes for teaching piano I use Nancy and Randall Faber's books. I have used all of them. For guitar and mandolin I generally do not use a "book". As the lessons progress I might introduce a book if that is what is called for. All orchestral instruments call for the structure of a book and I augment that with my own explanations. This is true for all ages of learners. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Music Djembe

I tailor my lesson plans to fit each student's individual learning style and situation, and I prioritize the student's desires in what they want to learn or need help with first over anything else. I believe that it is possible to learn in a way that is enjoyable for everyone involved, and I also always ensure that the student has enough time at the end of each session to practice the material on their own so that they leave the lesson more confident than before. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I have had a variety of experiences with teaching over the last few years. During my gap year before college, I worked for the Wheaton Warrenville South high school's orchestra as a sectional leader and private tutor. I also worked as a teacher during the summer programs held for elementary, middle, and high schoolers. I have experience counseling at Credo, which is a music festival held in Oberlin, OH. Through the Credo fellowship program I coached chamber music for middle and high schoolers. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I believe that the biggest rewards in life come through the satisfaction that is felt after accomplishing a goal that you have set out to achieve. Everybody is different when it comes to what those goals are but through similar means, we all find our way to some level of success. This is how I approach private instruction. The role of a teacher I believe is that of a guide and mentor. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I am happy to teach absolute beginners, intermediate players, and anyone who feels like they are stuck and can't get better. In most cases I will photocopy material from a variety of books or use my own. I would most likely recommend a book after I got a feel for the students level and music style preference. The one book I do recommend for beginners who are a little older is The Complete Technique Theory and Scales by Joseph Alexander. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Music

While teaching, I create a very friendly and welcome environment. Comfort between the student and teacher is critical in order to progress with technique and repertoire. I open the floor to questions, concerns and truly want to hear what the students perspectives are. With beginner students, the primary focus is on breath management, developing flexibility between ranges, and applying technique to repertoire. For more advanced singers, I am able to help prepare for auditions or performances and focus more on the quality and control of the voice. Read More