About
Hello; my name is John Rotante. I am a professional musician, with over 20 years teaching piano to students of all ages! I have excellent references to insure that you will be comfortable learning in my care. I provide a roll-up piano and worksheets for basic training in your home. Of course, having a piano/keyboard allows you to practice every day. The piano is a great instrument that allows you to gain confidence and be creative. My students perform every year at an Assisted Living/Nursing Home to give enjoyment to the residents. I perform cocktail music for Weddings and other events throughout the NY Metro area so my repertoire spans the ages. I was trained in classical music so you, as my student will have a true variety of music styles to study! I am unique in this regard as a PianoStylist! I continue to perform year round at senior living homes, weddings, and social events throughout the NY Metro area.
I come from a musical family and have been playing piano since I was 7 years old. I love learning new songs and giving them my unique stye. My passion for music is reflected by the way I adapt my teaching to the students abilities and likes. It gives me great pleasure to see them progress every year and perform at our annual recital or major in music. As a Baby Boomer, I also enjoy teaching those who may have a piano at home and now have the time to play it as a hobby!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I speak to the student or parent to set up a preliminary lesson to determine what direction to take. I prefer 45 minute lessons for those who are between 5-7 years old. One hour lessons are for older students. One must understand the association of numbers and letters as reading music is a new language to them. The student MUST have access to a keyboard of some kind to practice on. I can provide a roll-up piano for the first lesson and a keyboard for the first month until the student gets one of their own. There are full 88 key digital pianos with the feel of an acoustic piano available online for under $300! Once the basics are understood, daily exercises are necessary with a minimum of 15-20 minutes of practice. Within a year, most students can learn easy classical and pop songs.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a professional pianist who performs regularly around the NY are for over 25 years. My classical training combined with my experience allows me to have a broader understanding of the varied tastes in music. I started taking lessons at 7, over 40 years ago.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Minimum time for a lesson is 45 minutes. To accomplish the most and to get the best value for your time requires a one hour lesson.
How did you get started teaching?
My Mom studied opera, and my Dad wrote songs and advertising jingles. Of course, I was destined to become a musician!
What types of students have you worked with?
From 6 years to 73 years old, of every nationality and background. NYC is a breeding ground for talent.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I volunteer to play ay the Norwegian Christian Home every Sunday to entertain the residents, of which my Dad was part of. It has helped me expand my repertoire to include songs from the 40's-50's and 60's.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure your teacher is a professional and uses a balanced approach. I have earned a best of 2018 award from Lessons.com
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Being able to combine the mental relationship between letters and numbers as a child and to practice strenghtening their fingers with daily exercises. If you like to sing, it's a plus. You must be committed to music!