Music Lessons in Ocean Parkway, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I cater the lessons towards the individual needs of the students.  For beginning students 6 years old and under, I prefer to use Shirley Givens' books, "Adventures In Violinland", along with Suzuki materials through rote memorization.  When the student is 5 or 6 years old or older, I like to use Suzuki materials but supplement with note reading right away.  Also, I love it when a student brings a specific piece of music in that they would like to play, whether it is from the classical repertoire, or jazz, pop, etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Bass Guitar Synthesizer Accordion Ukulele Euphonium French Horn Tuba Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My pedagogy is based on the American jazz tradition and the teachings of Orff and Kodaly. I like to impart a holistic love of music in my students, without boring them with too much history or theory. However, it is my belief that theory and musical literacy will open doors to a greater level of fulfillment and understanding of music as a whole. The materials I use vary from student to student and from instrument to instrument, depending on each student's goals and progress. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I use a combination of established teaching methods, such as Alfred, Bastien, Hanon and Hal Leonard, as well as my own methods, which I've developed over the years. I also effectively utilize technology, such as Finale notation software to create special arrangements of songs for my students, YouTube videos for audio/visual support, and iPads. I have cultivated a warm demeanor and good sense of humor, which has helped my students remain engaged and in anticipation of the next lesson. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

Through my continued studies in music, and many other fields, my ability to relate to all people, including students continues to grow. I am able to quickly assess what kind of approach is appropriate for a group or an individual, and I have experience implementing practices that directly improve learning ability, interest in and comprehension of material. I understand the importance of time management, creative thinking, attention to detail and the ability to make something difficult seem fun and worthwhile. Read More

Instruments: Trumpet

As a teacher, I try and strike a balance between structure and expression. And to that end, I believe a student needs to play trumpet every day- it doesn't have to be much, but because it's both physical and mental exercise, it's good to stay with it. For beginners and youngsters, 15-30min per day is usually a good target and as their expertise and enjoyment increase, practice time goes up seamlessly. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

For beginning students, i'll typically start with Suzuki books. It's important for students to learn the left and right hand separately before putting everything together. Once a student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I'll introduce some simpler solo repertoire appropriate for his or her skill level. For advanced, I'll be happy to talk about more advanced musical techniques and theories. I play the piano as well, and I will be happy to accompany my students playing repertoire that needs an accompanist. Read More

Instruments: Piano

My lessons include a combination of popular beginners methods, such as Leorard, Giraffe, Dose of the Day, etc. combined with musical games that teach musical theory and sight reading. I will often write music for my students— short pieces that highlight skills they are working to improve— which is something they really enjoy. Finally, I always include lessons about music history whenever introducing a new piece or composer to my students, so that they begin to understand the musical and cultural context of everything they play. Read More