Cello with Helen N.

My teaching philosophy is largely centered around the importance of individuality. The “one size fits all” approach is hardly ever adequate--every student has different needs, strengths, and challenges. While I certainly place emphasis on technical work and mastery, I also want all students to feel comfortable in expressing their individual voice and interests. I believe that it is incredibly important to encourage students to explore a number of creative avenues within music. Therefore, I am very open to having students explore music outside the classical canon in addition to experimenting with improvisation and composition. An additional component of my teaching style is finding unique and interesting ways to keep students motivated and teaching them how to effectively practice and learn on their own. One of the greatest things about teaching is the incredible amount of variety it offers. No two students will ever be the same, meaning I will never teach two students in an identical fashion. The challenge of uniquely tailoring my teaching to the needs and interests of individual students is one that I absolutely love. My studio is a positive, encouraging, and sensitive environment, where I believe every person can begin or continue a life-long journey with music. Please contact me about my private teaching studio in Brooklyn. I welcome students of all levels and ages.