About
I have years of experience teaching private lessons, successfully preparing students for top ratings at competitions and for auditions. I have a Bachelor of Music from University of New Hampshire, and a Masters in Education from Potsdam College. I have performed professionally, and have taught privately since 1972.
Seeing a music student "get it" is the most rewarding experience in the world! It is like watching a flower bloom into its full glory or a butterfly emerge from its chrysalis and soar. I take great joy in the process.
Details
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Student has instrument
Interested musical styles
Reviews
Div P.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to gather background information, to assess the student's experience and goals. then have the student sing a favorite song a capella or with YouTube for Voice; for Piano and Instrumental, I fit the student into a method depending on age, experience, and goals. I like to start out with fun activities for young students. I keep my comments positive and assign practice according to age and attention span.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Bachelor of Music, major in Voice; Master of Education; private lessons with Syracuse Opera; Opera Workshop at University of New Hampshire; Concerto Program at UNH; Church Choir Director since 1976; Merry-Go Round Theater; Auburn Players; private lessons since 1972, with many students achieving Outstanding ratings at NYSSMA.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have mostly worked with high school students on Voice, with a few younger students; elementary through high school in public school, all ages on piano and brass.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I played a role in Auburn Players' production of Almost Maine; Christmas Eve service at my church.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look at the instructor's training and experience first, then positive results, such as success of students at NYSSMA Festivals and going on to major in music or continuing to sing or play in various performing groups.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
This depends on many things, including the age of the student. For voice, if the student is very young, is the teacher trained to work with a voice that has yet to mature? If older, can the teacher help me with healthy singing? ...help me improve tone? ...expand my range? ...connect me to opportunities? For piano, what is the teacher's training? What method(s) does the instructor use for young beginners? ...for the older or adult beginner? Can the teacher get me playing with two hands in a short time? Do I have to learn to read music? Do you teach theory along with piano methods? For brass, what are your qualifications? Depending on the student's goals, they should ask the teacher if they can help you meet those goals.