Music Lessons in Montauk, NY

Instruments: Voice

A typical lesson begins with breathing exercises and a comprehensive vocal warmup. This is usually where we focus on the "mechanics" of singing to make sure the voice stays healthy. Next, we will typically do some ear-training and harmony work, followed by songs! I try to help students develop a diverse repertoire of music that fits their goals. Most students have 3 songs that they are working on at a time: 1) a challenge song: something that's a bit difficult and has significant room for growth, 2) a fun song: a current favorite that the student picks for herself/himself, and 3) a teacher's choice song: one that I choose for the student. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I initially have a student work on a series of simple fingering exercises. This gets the student familiar with the feel of the instrument and helps to reinforce how the left and right hands work together when performing. Another benefit is that it helps the student to build speed/dexterity when playing. When these exercises/techniques have been mastered I then introduce the student to concepts such as notes, scales, intervals, basic chord structure, etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer

I have been teaching since 2004. I am proficient in all genres of music from the Baroque to Jazz. I do not require my students to engage in studio recitals. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet French Horn

I’m an entertaining and engaging music educator with more than a decade of experience working with students and instrumentalists in middle school, high school, and college. I’m a graduate of the University of Southern Maine and Indiana State University, and I’m active as a composer, arranger, trumpet player, and conductor around the Northeast United States. I’m also currently a Middle school music teacher in RI, and I help run summer camp programs for student leaders in high school band programs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder Piccolo Oboe Keyboard

This is a very tricky topic, because every student learns differently on every ability level therefore, I like to use a combination of various tools. The Essential Elements works great for younger beginners, where the Rubank books are more suited for older or very disciplined students. I like to supplement this with music they might be working on in a school ensemble, or if they have a favorite song they would like to learn, as well as with scale studies and long tones. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I'm a very dedicated and patient teacher who will go above and beyond to make sure my students succeed. I've learned a lot about teaching through my own teachers and mentors including Alex Skolnick (Testament, Trans-Siberian Orchestra), Mike Kevetoes, Jim Martin etc... I've always had a deep passion for music and I love helping people discover their own passion for music and playing guitar. This lead me to getting a more formal education to improve my skills so I could help even more students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer Recorder Piccolo

For novice students, I will most likely start with a method book such as one from the Essential Element's series. However, I will typically move students through the method book quickly and get right into performance repertoire that is appropriate for their age and level. Composing your own pieces and learning to improvise are extremely important in my method of teaching so I will also start teaching students how to write their own music as soon as possible. Read More