David Z
Instruments: Piano
Styles: Classical, Jazz
David Z
Instruments: Piano
Styles:
Classical, Jazz
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 10-80
B.M., William Paterson University, Jazz Studies
2015 - Three month residency at leading jazz club in Hangzhou, China 2013 - Performed on WBGO jazz station 2010 - Full scholarship to William Paterson University 2010 - Downbeat Award for Best Jazz Arrangement
I'm a recent graduate of William Paterson University, which I attended on a full scholarship, am a working jazz pianist in the greater NYC area. I have performed internationally (most recently a three month residency in Hangzhou, China) and at venues such as NJPAC, Carnegie Hall, Smoke, Mezzrow, Fat Cat, the Deer Head Inn, and the 9th Note, among others. I have shared the stage with luminaries such as Winard Harper, Duane Eubanks, Don Hahn, Bill Goodwin, Carrie Jackson, and Jerome Jennings, to name a few.
My background in classical piano gives me a strong foundation for successful piano education. I refer to the classic Russian method of piano technique and provide the student with confidence in sight reading as well as a strong understanding of music theory. My students have ranged from ages 5 to 65! I work at the student's pace, am generous with my time, provide a fun and relaxed learning atmosphere, and makes sure each person walks away from his or her lesson feeling inspired.
In accordance with the Russian school of piano teaching, I start the student off with the foundational skills of correct hand position and proper touch. It is very important for the student to absorb these concepts early on in order to avoid potential bad habits as his/her study progresses. I follow by introducing the student to the essential skill of reading music. I then have him/her play from the Russian School of Piano Playing book, a collection of beautiful simple pieces. The pieces gradually become more complex, allowing the student to comfortably develop his/her skill with time.
I firmly believe that a love of music, over anything else, should be the driving force behind learning to play an instrument. I therefore try to instill in my students a genuine love of the art. This love then makes him/her want to practice! Practicing (and the entire learning process in general) should be natural, fluid, creative process rather than the heavy burden many young people make it out to be. By introducing my students to various composers and artists within the genres of jazz, blues, and classical, I open their hearts and minds to the wonderful world of music and in turn inspire them to work hard and achieve.
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