Justin S
5.0
(3)
Instruments: Piano, Voice, Saxophone, Drums, Bass Guitar, Synthesizer, Music, Keyboard
Styles: Classical, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Country, R&B, Gospel, Musical Theater, Electronic, Showtunes, New Age, Soul, Punk
Justin S
5.0
(3)
Instruments: Piano, Voice, Saxophone, Drums, Bass Guitar, Synthesizer, Music, Keyboard
Styles:
Classical, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Country, R&B, Gospel, Musical Theater, Electronic, Showtunes, New Age, Soul, Punk
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 7-80
2011 Break Contest Winner
2012 Benoist Music Scholarship
I'm a passionate professional in the music business. I graduated from Monmouth University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. I'm trained in a classical background, but have developed skills in multiple genres over the years. I've performed around the country with various musicians and have gained much stage experience and performance knowledge along the way. I've had the opportunity to perform the Gramercy Theater in NYC, Paramount Theater in Asbury Park, NJ, and others as piano accompaniment, lead vocals and on bass guitar. I've opened for artists such as Coheed and Cambria, Eve 6, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, and played 3 consecutive Bamboozle Festivals featuring artists as Bon Jovi, Snoop Dog, and Mumford and Sons. My passion is teaching music to be used in a practical manner that suits the individual and their needs.
My teaching experience began in high school, as I began teaching private lessons part time. In college, I've learned how to teach effectively in my private lessons using both sight reading and ear training as foundational elements to the lesson. Additionally, I'm a licensed school teacher. I've learned how to teach entire classrooms and have experienced first hand what most children in school are learning and what they are lacking in their music knowledge. I've also worked at Steinway and Sons piano factory where I have learned the ins and outs of piano technology and how knowing the instrument well can affect the playability. I consistently emphasize practice on both classical pieces and on music that the student finds enjoyable. If they are not having fun then I'm not doing my job!
For beginner students who are children, I will typically start with Bastien Piano Elements and/or Piano Adventures. Additionally, I'll incorporate popular musical melodies in EZ plays and have my students begin learning chords so they can begin lead sheet reading some of their favorite tunes. For adults, I'll cater the lesson to what they are looking to accomplish and keep them engaged, learning and continue having fun in their musical element. I maintain ear training as a foundational element in my lessons because I believe our ear is our most important tool in music rather than our eyes.
I love being able to see my students succeed and show pride in what they perform. I consider how I can make difficult concepts easier to understand and apply and I always maintain patience as each student progresses at their own pace. Every lesson I have my students write the information they need to know in order for them to better retain the knowledge and set goals that are both practical and realistic. I acknowledge my students' accomplishments and address how to improve their abilities in music knowledge, performance, and ear training.
Michele Slinger
What Cani say about Justin? Just that he is amazing. Not only as a piano teacher, but as a person also. Teaching an old lady like me (63) I'm sure has it challenges. A little set in my ways I would say. Justin has a way about him to just be able to go with the flow. I have learned so much in the past 10 months working with Justin every week. Also it's been challenging during this pandemic. He is also always available to answer any of my question. I can always shoot him a text and he always answers. In my opinion Justin is the best teacher. I would recommend him to anyone who is looking to learn from the best.
Check out our A+
Rating from the Better Business Bureau
100% Risk-Free Trial Lesson
If you are not satisfied after your trial lesson, you will not be charged and we can match you with another teacher.