Music Lessons in Medford, NY

Instruments: Piano Drums

I always tailor my lessons to the needs of the student. Sometimes students just want to get into learning specific songs, while others are interested in theory. Also, there is a massive backlash against the pharmaceutical industry for over-prescribing drugs for things like ADHD. Instead, doctors are now recommending music lessons to burn off that excess energy a child may have. Also, a teacher has to be able to have the social skills to 'read' a student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Music

I believe that music theory is a fundamental when learning any musical instrument, and I make custom worksheets that cater to the individual's curriculum each week. When learning a new piece, the aural, visual, and written components encapsulate the primary step, as I believe it develops a deeper understanding of the piece before attempting it on the instrument. Students at any level complete scales and work on sight reading each lesson. 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: Flute Piccolo

Each student is a unique individual. No two students are the same, nor will any lesson be. I use positive encouragement and reinforcement when communicating to my students. This means identifying what they might be doing correctly, as well as what needs improvement in a supportive way. My goal is to build confidence and self-esteem in their music and life. I look forward to being a part of their musical journey and hope to make it as rewarding as possible. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I am looking for students who have the time and energy to dedicate themselves to practicing a minimum of four times per week. My lessons are fast paced and fun, and students who practice regularly can expect to see noticeable improvement in their playing each week. In each lesson I will introduce some new techniques and will work with you on scales, fundamentals, exercises from a method book, and music (classical, jazz, or both, depending on the player's preferences). Read More

Instruments: Drums

While at MSM, Ryan worked at Motts Hall II as a percussion teacher for their outreach program. After graduation, he would perform with Phil Markowitz, Jimmy Bruno, Zach Brock, and John Escreet and become a rotating member of the Christian Sands Trio. Notable past performances include a month-long residency in Shanghai for Lincoln Center, Boston Celebrity Series, Jordan Hall, Umbria Jazz, and EFG London Jazz Festival. Ryan is currently working as the primary drummer for the New York-based improv group Altus, and leading his band, the Ryan Sands Trio. Read More

Instruments: Drums

I'm very passionate about music and sharing the knowledge I know to students. I was raised in Honolulu, Hawaii and started playing the drums when I was 8. I started out playing rock/pop and then slowly went into jazz. Now I am interested in playing a wide array of genres. I graduated from the Manhattan School of Music with a Bachelor's in Jazz Performance. I have traveled to many places across the world to play music: such as China, Mexico, Hawaii, and here in New York. Read More