Piano Lessons in Seagate, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet

I teach strong instrumental fundamentals, along with music theory comprehension, sight-reading, and ear training. I also like to emphasize ensemble playing using instrumental duets. I use appropriate level texts based on the student's experience first and age level second but always teach from what will make either younger students or adults feel comfortable. Fun is a must in one's progression but focus is key to success. I've helped students win concerto and ensemble awards and have also brought adults into the professional-level playing world through lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet

My teaching is based on the thought that everone can be comfortable with making music. Since comfort comes best when things are fun, I like to focus on music that the student likes. This usually involves improvising as soon as a student knows a few notes, which creates a chance for self-expression and leads to confidence in playing with others. I also place emphasis on phrasing, My experience is that many students get wrapped up in the mechanical process of playing at the expense of musicality. Read More

Instruments: Piano

I believe that I have a natural talent for teaching. I was able to solve varied problems or my students. Whether it is stiff hands, bad hand position habits, inability to play polyrhythms, articulation issues, phrasing and ornaments or a general frustration at being unable to control the sound, I have demonstrated time and time again that these problems are not insurmountable. I encourage, when applicable, parent participation, their help and support but if these positives are missing, I found a way to redeem the situation and that resulted in tremendous self-esteem boost of my piano pupils. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice

It is important for both me and my student to have long-term and short-term goals. Long-term goals may have to do with technique--for voice, examples may be releasing tension or singing with proper breath support. Short term goals are more linked to repertoire and can be technical or musical. An example on the piano may be playing through a piece with a particular metronome marking. I have each of my students use a practice log so both the student and I can keep track of short-term goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Clarinet Music Keyboard

I am a recent college graduate, so it hasn't been so long since I was taking lessons myself! That said, I've taught music in a wide variety of settings, from private lessons, to music summer camps, to instrumental demonstrations, to running college ensembles, and more. Because I'm still young, I remember what it was like not to understand certain topics within music, so I'm particularly good at figuring out where my students are getting stuck and helping them to look at it from a new point of view. Read More