I believe in tapping into each student’s specific interests and strengths. People learn best through a unique set of modalities, and so I aim to pinpoint each student’s best and most comfortable means of learning. I have found this approach to be very effective. I want a music lesson to feel like we are EXPLORING rather than CHORING.
The “right way to teach,” at least the way I see it, is to develop a curriculum that is best suited for the particular student. I always aim to familiarize myself with the music that a student is passionate about —that helps me understand his or her interests and goals. If the student and I are “on the same page,” then the learning process will be smooth and enjoyable.
I graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in Bronxville, NY in 2007, but have been giving music lessons for two years. That’s because I wanted to gain experience as a musician before imparting my love of music to others.
A major highlight of my musical career was performing on David Letterman’s show with my longtime band, The So So Glos. I enjoyed that moment very much, and it made me realize that I had accomplished quite a bit as a musician.
Very early on in our lessons, one of my student’s moms texted me a video of my student playing her guitar and urging me to come over right away so we could continue together. I was tickled by her enthusiasm and eagerness! For a teacher, that is a truly wonderful experience!
I have been fortunate to play music all over Europe (France, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden, etc.). What I liked most about visiting these countries is how eager they are to overfeed visiting artists. Seriously though, we tend to think of Europe as one homogeneous region, but I was amazed to find out that each of these countries has its own fascinating traditions, customs, and culture.
So far only English. But since I like to travel, I am hoping to learn at least one other language. I haven’t decided yet which.
I love Fiona Apple. I believe she is one of the finest pianists, songwriters and performers of our time. I would just like to be close to the magic she generates.
I love generating comprehensive playlists of songs that are all in the same key. I know it is unusual, but I am enjoy doing this — after all, it is another form of music.
I have been listening a lot to The Kinks, Héctor Lavoe, Selena Gomez, and the defunct Australian punk band, Eddy Current Suppression Ring. One would be hard-pressed to introduce me to music that doesn’t pique my interest in one way or another!
