Music Lessons in Palmyra, NY

Instruments: Piano Voice

I have been teaching voice and piano for ten years; beginning with my senior year in high school and now as a professional musician. I have taught at several colleges, conservatories and universities; as well as frequently engaging students in master classes of both the Opera and Music Theater genres. I really enjoy meeting students where they are at-finding out their individual needs and goals; and designing a curriculum specific to each student! Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Every student is unique, and every student deserves a unique curriculum. That said, I usually start my absolute beginners off with open position chords and, when they're ready, open position scales - pentatonic and diatonic. We explore repertoire, often partially of the student's choosing. When this is established, we will dive into scales in all positions on the fretboard, and the corresponding modes for major, melodic minor, and harmonic minor. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola

My method is very flexible and student specific. Everyone learns slightly differently and has their own unique strengths. In general, I have a "sound before sight" method. Students learn music thoroughly, aurally and theoretically before trying to read it off the page. Imagine trying to learn a language by being handed a book. We then use your innate understanding of the music to inform your technique and the way you approach the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Just like any other skill or passion, it is most fundamental to instill a sense of awareness and problem-solving. Whatever stage the student is in, I believe in teaching methods that help break down and conquer difficulties. Instead of treating music/violin playing like a mindless and repetitive process, I want to pass on the passion and excitement that has been taught to me. Combining the inherent connection to music that we all possess with the tools to exercise discipline and dedication to a craft are the keys to success in my opinion. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements as well as learn the basic techniques on how to play the saxophone. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, regardless of their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Drums Djembe

First and foremost my goal as an educator is to inspire students to have a love, passion and excitement for music by tailoring my lessons toward each student's unique goals and interests. I aim to prepare students for any situation they may encounter by providing them with a strong basis in the fundamentals of music and drumming, along with improvisational techniques, skills for ensemble playing, sight reading skills, soloing, developing excellent tone, and proper technique to play with ease. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Mandolin Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Conga Latin Percussion

I have had a desire to play and perform music since I was six years old. This interest was sparked by the wonderfully scored film: Tarzan (Disney). The African percussion that Phil Collins incorporated into this movie's score was enough to send me on the path to fulfill a college-level education in music. Initially beginning with percussion, I have expanded my horizons to piano, guitar, and after a degree in music education: every well-known band and orchestra instrument (with the exception of the harp). Read More