Music Lessons in Upper West Side, NY

Instruments: Piano Violin Electric Violin

For beginning students, the first things to learn are how to hold the violin. Setup and posture are the most important steps to avoid developing bad habits and the possibility of getting injured. Upon learning the basics of how to hold the violin and the bow is learning how to read music and sing music. If a student knows the basic setup of the violin/piano and knows how to read music then I would start them on repertoire fitted to their level. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I follow no particular method, although I try to inculcate a fluid technique. I have been greatly influenced by Gyorgy Sandor's ideas (author of On PIano Playing and a former teacher at the Juilliard School), but have evolved my own approach. I have found that a student's motivation and commitment are more important than the methods used. Consequently, I modify my "curriculum" to suit their individual personalities and talents. Read More

Instruments: Drums

Ive taught students of all ages and various skill levels for almost 20yrs. Its great to pass along experience and perspective to students helping them grow in their abilities to play and appreciate music. I'm kind of a hybrid musician that has had opportunities to work with many professional musicians and also to study with several great musicians in their own right. Ive had great tremendous opportunities to play all over the US and also in South America. Read More

Instruments: Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Djembe

My teaching drum set experiences started over 15 years ago when I was playing many different styles of music. I wanted to be able to assist and encourage my students to be able to play drums and vibes or marimba. Teaching mallet instruments to drum set students allowed me to help the student see why he or she played certain drum set grooves and fills at certain points. It always fascinates me when people see how chords (on a mallet instrument) lock into a drum set groove. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass Acoustic Guitar

I have been playing music for over 15 years and have earned two degrees in music (University of Colorado, Manhattan School of Music). Some of my teachers include the world class Orin O'Brien and Tim Cobb from the New York Philharmonic and the Metropolitan Orchestra. In my undergrad I was a finalist for the annual concerto competition and have I performed internationally in Canada as well as Japan. I currently teach bass and guitar lessons with students in Park Ridge, Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Wheeling and I am looking to expand my student base. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning piano students, I typically start with the Hal Leonard "My First Piano Adventure for the Young Beginner," series. As students progress in their piano studies, I begin introducing solo repertoire that will support the concepts being learned in the book series. I will also assign small writing projects from time to time, to sharpen students' compositional and music reading skills. For voice students, my approach will vary, depending on individual experience and skills. Read More

Instruments: Drums Bass Guitar

My teaching experience dates back to my high school days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 15 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 10 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of jazz and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the drums and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More