Michael C
Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B
Michael C
Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, R&B
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 5-80
26 years teaching
Masters and Bachelors in Music Education, William Paterson University
Mike C, both with vocals and instrumental performance fuses together a combination of classical training, old school jazz, and funk, altogether bringing a creative, and soulful interpretation to music. Mike's heart and soul penetrates each note he plays in a fashion that is characteristic of performers double his age. At the same time he has brought the advancements of electronic music technology into his performance and composition expanding his sonic palette beyond "one horn, one sound." Mike's recording credits include the independant films "A Cup of Coffee" and "The Masterpiece." He has also performed live with The Crests, Melvin Sparks, in the Bahamas with Barry Newman, and appeared at such festivals as Woodstock, Riverhead Blues Festival, movie premier party for "The Prince of Central Park", The Bayou Music Festival, The Blues 2000 Festival, Lead vocals and saxophone for Pulse Productions, as a frequent performer both in lead vocals and sax at the Trump Casino's in Atlantic City as well as Empire City Casino. Mike currently holds a Masters degree in Music Education from William Paterson University and is a New Jersey Certified music teacher with 16 years experience teaching, K-6 band, general music, and chorus, music and movment for Autistic and special service students, as well as High School dance club.
29 years playing the saxophone. 16 years teaching in Ridgfield Park, NJ K-6 general music, band, and chorus. Instruments taught are flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and percussion, as well as piano. Constructed and teach a music and movement program for autistic and special service students.
Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. If a student isn't having fun in their lessons, then I'm not doing my job! My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. I'm always looking to bring on new students of all ages!Comprehensive method individually structured for each student. Books depending on level and age start with Standard of Excellence and are individually chosen to support the student.
For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level.Lessons are positive and laid back. An atmosphere is created to be able to ask any question. Lessons are comprehensive, meaning that they both play to the student's strengths while addressing any weaknesses or information that is typically skipped over in public school simply due to lack of time and having the students on an individual basis. Lessons are not just theory oriented, but more performing oriented. There is always a solo to play or duet to sight read.
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