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BM, Ithaca College, Music Education
MM, University of Michigan, Wind Instruments
PhD. Eastman School of Music, University of Rochester, Music Education
1979: Elected to Pi Kappa Lambda, National Music Honor Society
I am a consummate musician and music educator. With over 45 years experience in the music education profession, I have taught numerous students, ranging in age from children through adult, beginner through advanced levels.
I have considerable teaching experience in both the public and private school setting, as well as at the college and university level. In addition to my teaching activities, I have been active as a soloist, recitalist, conductor, lecturer, author, and administrator.
The combination of my teaching experience and abilities, plus my high level of musicianship and patience, have resulted in many satisfied and accomplished students. Whether you are looking for a music teacher for yourself or for a member of your family, I would be happy to discuss your particular needs with you.
I began my music teaching experience as a public school music educator before moving onto college and university level. Throughout all my years of teaching, I have always had a private music studio. My breadth of experience as a performer, lecturer, author and administrator has translated into a teacher with a high level of musicality and sensitivity. I have been trained in relating to and instructing students of all ages, as well as students with different levels of musical achievement. I am able to successfully diagnose various challenges and problems that a music student has and put him/her on a path to a successful and enriching musical experience.
I have at my disposal a variety of method books and exercises that I use with my students, depending on their age, level of achievement, and particular needs. I tend to use Accent on Achievement, the Breeze-Easy Methods, and the Belwin/Alfred Student Instrumental Course for young and developing players. As the student advances, I use the Rubank Advanced Method Volume I, then transfer to method books specific to the particular instrument being studied. I always work on repetoire with my students, and perform duets with them often, especially in the summer months.
Although it is my responsibility to teach fundamentals of playing the instrument and reading music correctly, I spend as much time as I can on not becoming enslaved to the printed page. In other words, once a student begins to play at a higher level, I introduce how to express oneself and the music in an aesthetically satisfying manner. Breaking down the barriers caused by musical notation and enabling an individual to express themselves musically and with proper phrasing and sensitivity is my primary goal. Many of my students have been with me for a long time; it is not uncommon to have a student begin with me in 4th or 5th grade and continue with me until high school graduation and sometimes beyond. My adult students also spend many years in my music studio.
Dr. Brian R. is a great teacher and a generous music lover. His lessons are very well adapted to my level as an adult student. His passion for music and his ability to communicate it are very motivating. They helped renew my own motivation and interest in flute playing.
Dr Brian exceeded my expectations. He knows what he is doing, he is patient with my son and helps him to improve his skills. Arnaud likes him a lot and he is happy to see him every week.
Dr Brian R. is great with my 9 year old
He's patient, knowledgeable, able to articulate ways to improve my playing, takes me at a good pace. I am very pleased with him as a teacher.
Understands my capabilities and needs, and is able to communicate skillfully the nuances associated with reading music and translating that skill to playing the clarinet. I am very impressed with Mr. Brian R.
Dr. Brian R. is wonderful with both of my kids! He is extremely patient and my kids enjoy their lessons with him. They have also learned so much.
He is an excellent teacher. Timothy M enjoys his lessons and has greatly improved!
We have seen great improvement in Timothy Michel's playing since starting the session with Dr Brian R. Timothy tells us he is now on course to be first clarinet in the advanced band at his school next year!
Excellent teacher. Always on time.
Brian is an amazing teacher! Very patient and very supportive.