Music Lessons in Shoreham, NY

Instruments: Drums

We start by doing proper warm up exercises followed by learning or practicing rudiments. We work on our grip of the sticks and our movements while drumming. In other words, I teach economy of movement for maximum energy. If a student is flailing their arms, we talk about a more fluid movement by utilizing the wrists and incorporating finger control. Then we move on to reading out of instructional books which is then followed by practical application on the drum sets.With a beginner student I find Basix Syncopation for Drums by Alfred Publishing to be a very effective tool. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Recorder Piccolo

Having taught many students over the years, my favorite books for young beginners are the Rubank series and Pares Scale book. These give a good foundation and progression and have easy to read fingering charts. Once a student gets going with these I introduce simple duet books so that, by playing with me, they develop a strong sense of tone and intonation. The first solo books I recommend are collections of solo's by famous composers, these give the student the chance to gravitate toward the style and composer they like best. 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: Bass Guitar Double Bass

I develop fundamentals of music theory such as note-reading, tablature, chords, scales, arpeggios andvarious techniques. I ensure that sessions are conducted in a friendly manner while maintaining discipline as well. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Latin Percussion

My two favorite books for all my beginning drum students are George Lawrence Stone's Stick Control and Ted Reeds Syncopation. These books, and the rudiments are a great place to develop the basics of the instrument. After learning the foundations, I develop an individual program to meet the students needs and desires, making the instruction both educational and fun. I learn from them what techniques, styles, and other drummers interest them, and tailor the lesson towards helping them learn the skills that will keep them interested. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Conga

My approach to teaching is to try and understand each students level of musicianship and evaluate their weaknesses and strengths. I believe that repetition and the reduction of speed are essential for learning, mastering and remembering technique and the nuances of music. I encourage each student to explore the style or genre of music that is most appealing to them. As well as experiment and persevere through new challenges of unfamiliar works or styles, such as classical, jazz, African and Latin/Cuban. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a firm believer in not re-inventing the wheel. I don't use my own lesson plans. I meet with students to see what they know and what they want to learn, and then use books, YouTube videos or tutorials to teach - learn with- students. A typical curriculum for me first learning the chromatic scale, then the major two octave scale. Then the minor two octave scale, then basic major and minor chords. Read More