Piano Lessons in Hudson, MA

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

I find it crucial to make sure the foundation of the voice is there before moving onto solo repertoire. By doing so, we can ensure the singing is always safe, healthy, and beautiful. In addition to teaching a healthy vocal technique, I strive to maintain a positive and uplifting environment for my students. I believe technique is important to become a successful singer, but feeling relaxed and comfortable while learning is just as important. Read More

Instruments: Piano Music

For beginners I typically start with the Bastien or Faber Method and as their level increases I always assign pieces outside of the piano method which are generally performed at their first recital. Adults are also welcome to participate and I have them work on at least 2 contrasting pieces based on skills they may need to work on as well as something they love and enjoy learning. I do give basics importance (scales, arpeggios, etc) as I believe this greatly improves a student's understanding and helps them reach a much higher level in the repertoire they are working on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Cello Bass Guitar

Through my time working with students I have found that it is very important to get to know them on a more personal level, i.e. music they like, their interests, their hobbies etc, and that way I can tailor my lesson plans to them as individuals and make them feel as comfotable as possible. I've learned a lot from my experiences in and out of the classroom, and I use my knowledge to the best of my ability in every lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

Hi there! Im Matt H., a guitar and piano teacher in Watertown, Massachusetts. I was mostly self-taught growing up, playing around on instruments and making music on my computer, before formally studying music at Bennington College where I focused on composition and earned scholarships as a top music student. Since then Ive played guitar, piano, and even a little mandolin in various bands and projects in the Boston area. After a few years I started to focus more on teaching while starting a family and spending some time as a stay-at-home dad. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

I am trained in the Suzuki method and will typically start my beginning cello students in this if they are not already interested in another method. If you are interested in a different method I will typically alter my teaching to accommodate. Early lessons typically work on establishing a strong technical foundation so the student will be able to pursue music that speaks to them. Pianists will typically begin with Faber's early music books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Flute Clarinet

For beginner piano students I generally work out the Faber Piano Adventures and for adults I use The Older Beginner Piano Course by Bastien. For Flute students I use the Trevor Wye Beginners Book for the Flute. Clarinet I use the Rubank Method books. Once the essentials are learned I will add in various solo pieces and other method books pending on each student and their music interests. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

Students learn best in a relaxed, nurturing environment.  I believe in order to successfully teach, I need to be encouraging, and truly care about the students.  My goal is to always have the students improve.  To do this, I think students need a well-balanced diet of tone (Moyse De la Senorite can be used), technique (scales for younger students, Maquarre Daily Excercises or Taffanel and Gaubert Daily Excercises for more advanced students), etudes (Melodious and Progressive Studies), and pieces (I consult the NYSSMA manual for appropriate pieces for the students level).  Having taken Alexander Technique, I strongly emphasize posture so that students can use their bodies in the most efficient way.  Individualized instruction allows for teachers to cater to the needs of the student, challenging the students without frustrating them.  Everyone is unique and learns at different rates, so no two lessons will ever be the same.  I teach students how to practice, so that they can progress outside of the 30 min. or hour long lesson.  As for performance standards, I have used rubrics for tone, technique, articulation, phrasing, and breathing.  Once strengths and weaknesses are assed, I create a plan to help the student improve, which is what students and teachers want to hear. Read More