About
I have over 15 years experience playing and several years teaching piano in classical, jazz, and pop styles. I have two degrees in music from highly reputable schools and am patient, affordable, and I know how to make learning music fun!
I think the favorite part of my job is when the student learns a concept that may have been tricky, or finishes a piece they've been working on for weeks. Making progress will bring you self confidence and a big feeling of reward!
Highlights
Reviews
Daniel S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first thing I always do is get to know the student. What kind of music would you like to learn? I have extensive formal training in classical, jazz, pop and contemporary music. Having studied for years under a concert pianist, I am particularly aware of correct posture, hand movement, wrist rotation, and the technical components that indispensably combine to effective playing and a beautiful sound quality.
If you want to make consistent progress through a strict formal regimen, I know how to deliver the results within any playing style you wish to pursue. However, if a strict formal regimen is the last thing you'd want, and you want lessons which are laid back, easy-going and tons of fun, I know how to teach this way as well.
We all learn differently and think differently, there is no one best way. It's for this reason that finding out what works best for each student is of the utmost importance to me.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I graduated with honors from the prestigious Berklee College of Music with a degree in classical composition. I have an additional degree in music from Northeastern University, concentrated in music synthesis and technology. I studied under a Russian concert pianist for years, many jazz instructors in my time at Berklee, and was lucky enough to study orchestral writing under the final student of Dmitry Shostakovich while at Berklee.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I typlically charge $50 an hour if I go to you and $40 an hour if you come to me. Weekly one-hour lessons are highly recommended, to ensure that corrrect habits in hand movement and body posture are consistently maintained.
How did you get started teaching?
When I studied under a concert pianist for many years, I noticed that many pianists in my music schools were asking me for help with regard to playing technique, posture, tone-control and injury-prevention. It brought me a lot of joy to help them solve the problems they were facing.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with young students, old students, students with disabilites, pretty much anyone you can think of. Students who have played for years, students who once saw a piano in a movie. I love people, I love discovering what you want to learn and seeing you reach your goals in timely manner.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I helped a young girl with autism develop a stronger sense of hand-eye coordination, to help her coordinate her arms and body with more intent and focus. She gained a lot of self confidence from her growth.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The relationship between a piano teacher and student is similar to a steering wheel and gas pedal: I can point you in the correct direction but it's entirely up to you how far you will go. Weekly lessons and at least an hour of practice per day should be the minimum for any student committed to improving at this instrument.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Just ask! I am very friendly and open. Your needs are my needs, this is a partnership aimed at exploring one of the most traditional and most beautiful instruments in all of music.