Music Lessons in Upper West Side, NY

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My philosphy for all my students is that any student can achieve any goal if they believe in themselves and put in steady effort. One of my major teaching methods involves learning music the student listens to regularly. So much is learned from this process be it technique, time, rhythm, theory, but the most important part is that the students love and understanding of music grows, not just their knowledge. Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer Keyboard

For beginning students who are children I typically start with a book. We can pair that with playing different musical games and improvisation. For beginning adults I like to pick some simple songs that resonate and work towards learning them. I believe strongly in the diversity of the student. I realize that not everyone likes books. In addition to the building blocks I typically like to get right into learning by ear and improvisation with most students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For beginning students, I typically start with the Suzuki Method while combining it with the Essential Elements Method. As the student learns the fundamentals I gradually add scales and exercises to further develop the student's technique. After further progress, I begin to introduce solo repertoire and add other pieces. I'm fairly flexible on what pieces the student may play in the lessons, as long as the rudiments and classic repertoire are covered. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

My approach depends completely upon the genre and goals of my students and their skill level. For beginners, I must always take a lesson to explain exactly what each part of the instrument is and how it works. For rock and pop students, the very first thing I will teach them are open chords and the pentatonic scale, and maybe even a simple song depending upon the student. For classical, I like to start out with simple sight reading exercises and move on to material that applies the principles I teach. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I have been teaching private lessons since 2015, my freshman year in college. During that time, I have had students from a variety of ages, backgrounds, and levels of proficiency. My first teaching influence was my mom, who was a high school orchestra director and continues to teach strings to elementary school students part-time today. I have also been blessed to study with some truly amazing private instructors at IU's tremendous music school, namely Luke Gillespie (jazz piano), Fred Hammond (classical piano), Walter Smith III (improvisation), Steve Houghton (improvisation), and more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet

I teach strong instrumental fundamentals, along with music theory comprehension, sight-reading, and ear training. I also like to emphasize ensemble playing using instrumental duets. I use appropriate level texts based on the student's experience first and age level second but always teach from what will make either younger students or adults feel comfortable. Fun is a must in one's progression but focus is key to success. I've helped students win concerto and ensemble awards and have also brought adults into the professional-level playing world through lessons. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Acoustic Guitar

I'm a positive and encouraging teacher. When I've worked with children and with special needs high school students, I have always tried to be supportive and positive rather than negative as my way of teaching lessons or guiding them. When it comes to teaching voice and guitar, I'm the same way. I want to bring out the best possible singer or guitarist in my student, and so my approach is a totally supportive one, and I bring a lot of enthusiasm to my lessons. Read More