Jon S
5.0
(18)
Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Drums, Bass Guitar, Organ, Synthesizer, Keyboard, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar
Styles: Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, R&B, Musical Theater, Latin, Funk, Hip Hop, Electronic, Reggae, Latin Jazz, Swing, Bossa Nova, Soul, Punk, Avant-garde
Jon S
5.0
(18)
Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Drums, Bass Guitar, Organ, Synthesizer, Keyboard, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar
Styles:
Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, R&B, Musical Theater, Latin, Funk, Hip Hop, Electronic, Reggae, Latin Jazz, Swing, Bossa Nova, Soul, Punk, Avant-garde
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 5-80
BM, SUNY purchase, Jazz Performance
2010- SUNY Purchase piano scholarship
I am a multi-instrumentalist teacher who loves bringing my experience on the bandstand and in the studio to students. I graduated SUNY Purchase specializing in jazz performance, have been on tour throughout the east coast and Midwest with 'The Element', and performed extensively in the Westchester and NYC area playing with 'Mokaad'. I have been fortunate enough to share the bandstand with greats such as Bernard Purdie, Charlie Lagond, and Gabriel Garzon-Montano. I have played professionally as a keyboard player and guitarist, and played bass and drums in a variety of studio situations.
I have enjoyed teaching music since I was in High School. I I enjoy using my experience as a multi-instrumentalist to teach students about the joy of playing with others. Social dynamics in music are important and once a student can learn the basics, I really enjoy encouraging them to find others to play with and learn to experience the music they enjoy on their own. Of course theory and regular practice are both very important. I try to always keep my students engaged and involved with the music they are learning
For beginner students, I like to use the Faber books or the Thompson method for piano. I also encourage students of all ages to share what they enjoy listening to and incorporate songs they enjoy as early as possible. As students progress I get into more in depth concepts in music theory and improvisation, to provide a foundation in the language of contemporary music. For more advanced students, I try to play another instrument along with them sometimes to provide a taste of what it is like to make music in a group setting.
I have taught all ages and skill levels, from absolute beginners to advanced apprenticeships. To me it is extremely rewarding to see a person take their love of music with them into their life. Whether or not a young person decides to pursue a career in music, the skills learned in playing an instrument are helpful in virtually all aspects of life. I have experience with music school's and with teaching privately and have found a delicate balance of hard work and fun that I can tailor to any students needs.
Adrienne L
Both of my children had their first lessons with Jon today. He was on time, nice, patient, encouraging and inspirational. My kids were somewhat disillusioned with music after their last teacher. I am glad to see them excited about it again. Thanks Jon! We are looking forward to the next lesson!
Amine Toumi
I've had a few sessions with Jon already. He understood very quickly what my needs were and we've been working together in a friendly athmosphere. Jon offers more than he has to. I'm taking drumming classes and wanted to focus on African rythms and Jon has a useful holistic approach to music in general. It is always a pleasure and look forward to next class.
Lisi Gheewalla
John is great - Perfect for Sylvie who has struggled with anxiety. He is on time and friendly and she is learning a lot!
Nauka Desai
Extremely knowledgeable. Can cover any style of guitar. Easy to learn new styles. Excellent for advancing in music theory and/or playing, helps songs relate to music theory. Would definitely recommend!
Adam Hellegers
Jon is very sensitive to the needs and abilities of a younger (age 7), brand new student, and is extremely patient, clear and enthusiastic. He has also been flexible and accommodating with schedule changes due to illness, travel, etc. Overall has been a great experience!
Gina Manente
Jon is great! Our seven year old son is learning to play the guitar and loving it!!!
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