Piano Lessons in Lakeside, CT

Instruments: Piano

For beginning students, particularly children, I use the Piano Adventures books. I recommend the student getting their Lesson, Theory, and Technique Artistry books to start. From there I will add in popular and classical pieces based on the students interest and ability. I do almost the same for teens and adults, just using the Piano Adventures adult books. I have used this method for almost my whole career and been nothing but pleased with the content. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

For beginning students, I use Faber Methods. Once the student has progressed, I would introduce solo repertoire that supports the skills necessary for improvement. Usually, I ask students if they are DYING to learn a piece, and with that selection, I'll look for techniques that can be improved upon. For adults, I try to ask what they are interested in learning, and help gauge the technique into their learning. Because adults learn differently from children, it is key to help integrate a different method of learning. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style has never been to try to create students who think or play just like me. I want to help them to find their own voice as musicians. Of course I make suggestions, but if I see they have a strong idea about something I think can work, I will help them try to find their way. If I think it's a bad idea I will tell them that as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Organ Accordion Keyboard

As a young performer I was under the tutelage of the acclaimed educator Dr. Frank Porto for over 10 years. As my music mentor, Dr. Porto guided me to dozens of wins in many classical and pop music competitions. As I entered my teens I started to gain more interest in jazz and popular music but still retained my love of classical music. I studied jazz with renown jazz educator John Mohegan. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I am a performing artist who loves inspiring and helping others in their musical journeys. My rigorous classical background and broad musical interests allow me to find ways to encourage both beginning and advanced students, no matter what their musical interests. I tailor studies to individual students, as everyone has music inside regardless of training and specific abilities. My background includes professional recitals, chamber music, orchestral piano, and collaborative work. Read More

Instruments: Piano Synthesizer Keyboard

Nothing brings me more joy than seeing someone accomplish their goals, especially when its something as special as music. Setting goals and tackling them step by step plays a huge role in learning anything, and piano is no different. Small goals quickly become big ones as they are stacked on top one another, bringing about a sense of accomplishment from the student - propelling them even further and inspiring their will to bring about further success. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Keyboard

For more advanced students, I use technique books and etudes by Hanon, Czerny, Pischna, and Chopin. I don't use a cookie cutter approach, but match the book to the student. It is important for me to expose the student, no matter the age, to not only written material, but chordal structure and basic harmony. Knowing the basic chords is important for understanding where music comes from, and even how to compose simple compositions. Read More