Piano Lessons in Ridgefield, CT

Instruments: Piano

I create custom lesson plans graded to progressively build the student's confidence, introducing something new at each lesson. If students fall in love with a piece well beyond their current capability, I don't usually say no; instead, I help them master the challenges step by step. I require students to learn scales; however, I avoid most technical method books. Instead, I invent exercises based on the challenges of a particular piece. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Trombone Drums Synthesizer Euphonium Tuba Music Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. 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 fun, no matter their ability level. Thank you for taking the time to read this I look forward to working with you. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Synthesizer Keyboard

My philosophy is mainly individualistic. If a student is young, there are many personalities you may encounter- some naturally focused, others not. While I will still aim to deliver essentially the same content, my approach with each child varies based on their attention span and focus. A lack of focus often hints at a creative bent, so I may listen a bit more than with a student naturally prone to taking directions. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin Keyboard

I like to be flexible and change up my method depending on each student's needs and goals. Most of the time, I start beginners off with a book such as A Tune A Day, Suzuki Violin School, String Builder, or the Hal Leonard. I also provide other handouts with exercises and additional material. After some time, I like to introduce new etudes and pieces that suit their current level but also provide challenges to help them grow. Read More

Instruments: Piano Drums

I always tailor my lessons to the needs of the student. Sometimes students just want to get into learning specific songs, while others are interested in theory. Also, there is a massive backlash against the pharmaceutical industry for over-prescribing drugs for things like ADHD. Instead, doctors are now recommending music lessons to burn off that excess energy a child may have. Also, a teacher has to be able to have the social skills to 'read' a student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello Bass Guitar Recorder Double Bass Keyboard

I have seen how music education helps my students become great thinkers, community leaders and artists themselves. As a teacher, I strive to engage students by nurturing their passion and curiosity for the arts and learning as a whole. It is my goal to help my students take what they learn through music and apply those skills to other areas in their lives, much as many of my mentors have done with me. Read More