Flute Lessons West

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Violin, Cello, Trumpet, Flute, Clarinet, Drums, Ukulele, Mallet Percussion, Orchestral Percussion, Conga, Djembe

While studying primarily with Ben Toth and Tom Kolor, she has worked with a number of other teachers specializing in different areas. This has given her a diverse knowledge in world music knowledge and playing abilities. Notable teachers include Joe Galiota (African drumming), Shane Shanahan (Middle Eastern hand drums), Rogerio Boccato (Brazilian hand drums and samba), and Dave Samuels (Caribbean Jazz). Secondary classical percussion instruction was provided by Al Lepak (timpani), John Bacon (drum set), and Michael Burritt (marimba).Though primarily a percussionist, Melanie is also an active violinist and vocalist. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Euphonium, Oboe, Bassoon

I am very familiar with all of the standard piano methods, and will evaluate the student in the first few lessons to choose a method that they will be the most comfortable with.  I supplement all lessons with music theory and outside repertoire, allowing the students to choose from their favorite genres/artists.  For theatre, musical theatre, and vocal coaching, I also employ Linklater and Alexander techniques. I also really enjoy exposing students to styles, genres or artists that they might not be familiar with along with the history behind the music they're learning! Read More

Instruments: Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

I like to play audio/recordings for the students when possible, so that the student has an idea of the style, or the piece that we are studying.  This gives them something to reference to, but also gives them an aural aspect in their playing/practice habits. I also model for them constantly, so that they get more visual and aural reinforcement.  I sometimes give them short music concept/vocabulary assignments, such as learning the names of the notes on the staff, counting rhythms, meters, etc; all having to do with music theory and musical concepts that can be directly applied to their practical aspect of playing. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I welcome students of all ages and abilities into my studio. Lessons are structured around the student’s goals, whether to play professionally or as a hobby. Stylistic choices in musical expression and phrasing are taught by incorporating music theory, music history, and ear-training skills into lessons. Students learn to produce a beautiful tone and to express themselves freely. As an AmSAT certified Alexander Technique teacher, I firmly believe that the psychophysical mechanism is paramount to success in healthy music-making. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Trumpet, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Bass Guitar, Ukulele, Music, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

Jamie S. is a teacher, guitarist, singer/songwriter, saxophonist, and composing pianist. His teaching career began at the age of fourteen, as a volunteer in the Songcatchers, Inc. program, teaching saxophone and piano to underprivileged children in New Rochelle, NY. He went on to study music at the University of Rochester/Eastman School of Music. In 2007 he did an eight-month internship at Island Def Jam/Universal Music Group whilst living in Harlem, after which he completed an independent study on the modern music industry, and was awarded the first ever Bachelor of Arts Degree in Popular Music and Jazz from Rochester/Eastman. Read More