Shari Rosenfeld

What is your teaching philosophy?

I believe teaching should be fun, innovative, creative, and adopted to each student’s personality. That’s why private lessons are best — they are customized to individual needs and learning style.

In your opinion, what is the right way to teach and what do you do in your lessons that makes you a good teacher?

I first connect with the student and parents to find out what their goals and expectations are. Then, I come up with a lesson plan to encourage the student to improve, but mostly I want them to enjoy the learning process. I am adaptable and if something is not working, I can easily change courses. I continue to check in with my students and act as their champion by celebrating their accomplishments.

How many years have you been teaching music lessons?

Five. I graduated from Touro College in 2010 with an Audio Engineering degree, and studied drums at Long Island Drum Center. 

What are you most proud of in your musical career?

I play drums in a signed touring band, and we have performed all over the country and in some places abroad as well.

In terms of teaching, I have a not-so-hidden “talent” for motivating my students to keep going and learning, despite any momentary difficulties they may be experiencing.

What’s the best compliment you have ever gotten as a music teacher?

The best compliment I have received is that I make my students laugh and have fun. It’s so much easier to keep students interested and engaged in learning if they are enjoying the process and have a good rapport with their teacher.

What country have you travelled to that you like the most and why?

I have done ten national tours and seen so many incredible parts of the United States. I am touring Europe in this summer. We are going to Germany, Amsterdam and London, with more locations being added.

What languages do you speak?

Only English so far, but I would love to learn more.

If you could perform with any musician (alive or dead), who would it be and why?

An American rock band Blink 182. I love their energetic live shows and I think I’d fit right in!

Do you have any interesting or unusual hobbies? If so, tell us about it.

I play drums in the band THICK. I like to work out, play Tony Hawk Pro Skater, and I love animals. I have always had pets like cats and dogs, who had no choice but to listen to my music when I practiced!

What are you currently listening to on the radio, iPod, iTunes, Spotify, etc.?

I’ve been listening to the new Justin Bieber album, classic rock, Machine Gun Kelly, Idles, Nina Simone, and pop-punk.

I am pretty versatile in my musical tastes and like to listen to all kinds of performers and genres.