Piano Lessons in Newton Center, MA

Instruments: Piano

My students love the Faber Faber "Adventures in Music". These method books, in my opinion, have some of the most innovative and motivating pieces. This method gives the student a solid foundation in theory focusing on scales, and used in concert with other materials bring the student to a very proficient level. I also use supplementary materials such as Dozen A Day, Hanon, and Czerny. Martha Mier books for young children, especially her "Imagine" books are unique and inspiring. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

It is important for me to know my students in order to create a lesson plan and learning experience that works. I ask lots and lots of questions and work hard to challenge my students without any pressure. I hope that they will be excited for their lessons and eager to learn. I typically write out a list of things we are working on and request that my students set a timer and practice 10 minutes at a time on 2 to 4 different days during the week. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar

I am a lifelong student of music. I began playing the guitar at a very young age, 7 years old, and was playing in public by the time I was 12 years old. Around this time I took a correspondence course in Arranging from the then Berklee School of Music, which did eventually also become my alma mater and I even began teaching for my teacher. I have played and performed throughout the new England states as a solo performer and in bands/ensembles, and have had some of my orchestral works performed by the Prague Symphony Orchestra, truly an achievement for a kid who grew up as a rocker. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Clarinet Drums

Having said that, possibly an even more pressing skill would be to be equppied, physically and intelectually, to play along with an impromtu music session, or "jam." If, say, a former clarinet student of mine should find him or herelf in the company of a strumming acoustic guitarist, it is my hope that they will be condfident and able to contribute musically and sensibly without the need for sheet music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Keyboard

My teaching style is definitely dependent on the students personal goals. There will be much communication between us about what you intend to get out your lessons I will shape my teaching techniques to make sure those needs are met. I want you to get out of your lessons everything you hoped you would. My hope as a teacher is to provide lots of encouragement so that the student feels accomplished in the work they have completed. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I use Standard of Excellence books with my students and I look for appropriate repertoire for the clarinet and saxophone. I choose music that is at the proper level for the student I am teaching. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music

For younger children, I typically start with the fundamentals such as distinguishing between the head voice and the chest voice. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for said student. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in both repertoire and vocal goals, and guide my instruction according to their goals. I will also put input on what I believe they could develop and use that to guide my instruction. Read More