About
Highlights: I've been performing music professionally for almost 2 decades, and I am uniquely skilled in both performance and education, with 2 performance degrees and a masters in music education.
I teach lessons online or in-person, giving you or your child the flexibility to learn and be coached wherever you prefer! Also, by enrolling with me you'll be able to request personalized videos as needed, to help you/your child practice.
I've enjoyed helping students of all ages reach their fullest potential and find lasting joy in music.
For my younger students I keep our lessons fun and engaging and rooted in classical music education methods but with my own spin. For my students who want to be competitive with their achievements, I utilize the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) standards and state specific standards in order to prepare students for musical mastery.
I love passing on all of the knowledge I possibly can to my students, crafting our lessons to their individual learning styles and comfort levels.
I've been a professional saxophonist, pianist and composer for 10+ years. I studied Jazz Performance at the Manhattan School of Music and William Paterson University, and received a Masters degree in music education from Towson University. I have had the good fortune of being able to study with some of the worlds greatest musicians including Mulgrew Miller, Christian McBride, Rich Perry, Chris Potter, Seamus Blake and Donny McCaslin.
Miscellaneous Info:
I also have experience as a music producer/recording artist. I come from a musical family, and my brother is a recording artist as well. He even has a song with Pitbull! I teach songwriting, music production/recording as well as instrumental performance.
I enjoy working with students to inspire their discovery of the joy and wonder that music performance can bring to their lives. I also enjoy being a coach and passing on all of the knowledge I possibly can to my students, crafting our lessons to their individual learning styles and comfort levels.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Our first few lessons are focused mainly on discovery (for me). I want learn how my student thinks, what their goals and motivations are - in order create a plan for getting them to the next level! Whether its a classical approach using time tested methods, or a plan focused less on reading music and more on playing by ear, I have the experience to show someone how to cultivate their artistic abilities from day 1 all the way to a professional level.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Master of Science Degree in Music Education from Towson University
Bachelor of Music Degree in Jazz Performance from William Paterson University
Pre-College Diploma from the Manhattan School of Music
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Cost ranges between $35-$200 per week, sliding scale.
(Some factors that determine my minimum price: lesson time, lesson location, travel time, frequency of lessons)
My pricing is all inclusive. This includes travel time, lesson time, prep time, and all materials like method books and other supplemental resources like video message feedback outside of lessons.
How did you get started teaching?
Teaching music has always been a passion of mine. As an undergrad student at William Paterson in 2011, I began to teach young students and older beginners.
What types of students have you worked with?
I am comfortable teaching ages 5 to 75 (believe it or not!) I also have experience teaching students on the autism spectrum and with other special needs.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
My advice is to find a teacher who will be compassionate and patient, while pushing you toward your highest musical potential.
To test this, I recommend starting with a teacher for a few trial lessons. It will be very clear after the first few sessions if they are a good fit.
In this field you will also get what you pay for. Beware of teachers that charge very low fees. Not everyone is a great teacher, even though they may be a great performer.