About
I teach quality private lessons for piano, guitar, and mandolin, using the great classical European techniques, and I give my students skills that guarantee them a lifetime of playing. Also, my students can join the Bloomfield Mandolin Orchestra (BMO) and be a part of other performance opportunities that I regularly arrange. There is a right way, and a wrong way, to study music. Allow me to show you what European masters have taught for centuries!
I love seeing the transformation of my students from the beginning stage to advanced playing. The right foundation is crucial to the development of a lifelong performance career. Anyone at any age can enjoy the benefits of music instruction, and the opportunities it brings, including scholastic and social, are well worth the endeavor. In my 22 years as a private music teacher, including running my own School of Music for 11 of those years, I have met and helped thousands of people reach their goals. Many of my students are currently enjoying music studies in either performing arts high schools or conversatories/universities, as well as perform in local community and professional orchestras and bands.
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Jaime A.
Kevin
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I evaluate each student's current level, and I design a custom program that helps develop their technique, reading, and musical interpretation. Books include Hanon studies, Burgmuller, Scales/Argeggios, Practical Theory, and various piano courses, and Urtext Edition classical pieces.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Undergraduate studies at Bowdoin College and Seton Hall University
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
1/2 Hour = $40
45 Minutes = $55
1 Hour = $75
How did you get started teaching?
As an undergraduate student, I began teaching private lessons for a local music store, and I then opened a school of music with my family in 2003, which continued until 2014. Since 2014, I have taught music to grades PreK through 8th at St. Brendan's R.C. School, and I have continued to work privately with students from Passaic, Essex, and Bergen counties.
What types of students have you worked with?
Beginner to intermediate level, ages 3 to Adult.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
May 7, 2017 - Spring Concert entitled Mandolin Romance, with the Bloomfield Mandolin Orchestra. I played mandola, a unique instrument. I have been a member of this wonderful orchestra for 20 years, and I look forward to our 2017-2018 Season.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure that your instructor includes Hanon and other technical studies in your lessons, and works on proper hand position and wrist movements. I have seen too many students play flat fingered, etc. Unfortunately, I have colleagues who just want to maintain their students' interest by jumping into pieces, which causes students eventually to stop because they physically can not play well and/or start to feel pain, and lack artistic expression.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Is the student ready to make a commitment to a daily practice routine? Does the student have a proper instrument to work with?