Piano Lessons in Oxford, CT

Instruments: Piano Music

I try to build upon what the students goal is while training them to practice consciously and with a purpose not just playing the music over and over and accomplishing nothing. I try to engage the student aurally and not only from the method book alone. This method encourages to make decisions on their own without being instructed to do so. Each lesson I like the student to bring a notebook to take notes. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Music Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Music Tree and Basien beginning piano. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and enjoyable, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Keyboard

I started taking piano lessons at the age of 5. As a I continued to take piano lessons, I eventually in middle school began to study with a professor from Julliard until entering the university. I graduated from the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University with a Bachelors of Music degree in piano performance. However, I started teaching right away and have enjoyed teaching for over 40 years. I have continued performing as well and enjoy the combination of spreading the beauty of music thru teaching and performing! Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

My methods vary. For piano, we start with simple technique exercises to make sure a student is making every note count. For younger students- like 6 and under- we'll nickname everything to make it easier. An example- the fingers should always be curled when playing piano, not flat. There should be enough space under their palm to hold hold a golf ball, so when they are playing with flat hands, I'll say 'golf ball' to remind them of the correct way, instead of being 'that mean old lady' type. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone

My teaching style is fairly laid-back, allowing each student to progress at their own pace. This allows me the freedom to tailor the instruction to the specific needs of the student and successfully find what creates their individual passion. I also believe that - especially in creative mediums like music and art - every negative critique I point out needs to be accompanied by at least two positive critiques. This positive reinforcement will help push students to progress rather than pushing them down, and all I want is to see the people I teach grow as both budding musicians and people. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Organ Piccolo Oboe Bassoon Keyboard

My teaching methods are essentially designed to give the student maximum command of his/her skills on their chosen instrument. First, all students must know the music essentials and the masters, especially on their instrument. Technique must be perfected by daily practice. I seek from every individual the highest level that they can attain to. No one knows exactly what that is but what is surprising and refreshing are the boundaries once thought impossible to accomplish have been broken. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My method of teaching will both implement teaching students how to sight read but also more importantly how to play music by ear. I am very big on learning by ear because it is the way I learned music most of my life. For younger students I do want them to start learning how to sight read at a basic level because it will make it easier for them in the long run. Read More