About Chris B.
I am a licensed music teacher and board-certified music therapist. I began teaching private piano lessons in 2005 during my undergraduate degree. I attended William Paterson University and received a degree in music education. Upon graduating, I received the William Paterson University 2010 Outstanding Classical Performer award. In 2017 I earned an M.A. in music therapy from Montclair State University, where I was awarded the David Ott Scholarship for Outstanding Music Therapy Intern. Learning music therapy has given me deeper insight into my teaching. My favorite part of music is the learning process. I enjoy performing music, but I personally get more out of learning it. Teaching allows me to be involved in the learning process with other people. I can assess a student's abilities and develop plans and materials that address his or her musical needs. A deep understanding of music and the learning process guides me during my lessons, and I enjoy guiding students through their musical struggles and victories. In addition to classical piano, I also sing, play upright bass, and guitar. Most of my students are piano students, but I also teach guitar and bass.
*** Lesson Details ***
Since each person is different, my lessons are tailored to the individual. I don't have set lesson plans that all my students adhere to. The lessons are designed to fulfill each individual student's unique needs. My specialty is in classical music, so my students learn how to read sheet music. I also provide a solid foundation in music theory, piano technique, and interpretation. I'm laid back and easy to get along with, but I do expect my students to practice. I see my role as a musical guide. That means that I can help students who want to learn, but I can't make anyone learn music. The more you put into music, the more you get out of it. When my students take my advice during the lessons and practice at home, they progress quite quickly.
*** Travel Equipment ***
I will provide music books, staff paper, and pencils. I expect students to have an instrument of decent quality to have a lesson on.
*** Specialties ***
I'm primarily a classical pianist with experience playing in a variety of settings. I’ve played in rock bands, I've done musicals, and I played upright bass in a folk/jazz band. I have an in depth understanding of music theory and moderate understanding of jazz harmony.
I don't adhere to any one specific teaching method. I find that since every individual is unique, individualized teaching approaches are necessary to suit a student's personal needs.
Reviews
Write a ReviewI am one of Chris’s students and he is a fantastic teacher! He teaches piano in a way his students would understand. I enjoy piano class every week and I am able to understand it in my own way!
Chris is an excellent instructor, but more than that he really cares for his students and always goes the extra mile! I own a music school in NJ and Chris has worked for me teaching many students over the past several years and I get nothing but compliments on his teaching style. If you are looking for a great piano teacher you have found him with Chris!

I highly recommend Chris as a music teacher. He is patient and committed to bringing out the best in each student. His background in education and music therapy makes him stand out as a special teacher who can work well with a diverse set of students.

Chris is a great teacher. He’s been teaching both of my boys for 3 years, and people can’t believe how well they play. He’s extremely patient with the younger kids, and really encourages an interest in music.

Chris is a fantastic teacher! He worked so well with my daughter and was very patient and helped to foster her love of this instrument!
Photos & Videos
10 Photos & VideosExperience
Music Therapist
Jun 2019 - PresentMJHS
Providing music therapy for hospice patients in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Nassau County.
Music Teacher
Sep 2018 - Jun 2019DOE
Taught general music at PS/MS 34 and PS/MS 140, grades PK - 8.
Education
M.A.
Sep 2011 - Jan 2017Montclair State University
B.M.
Sep 2005 - May 2010William Paterson University
Certifications
Music Therapist - Board Certified (MT-BC)
Jul 2014Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT)
Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing - Teacher of Music
Jul 2010New Jersey Department of Education
Awards
Outstanding Music Therapy Intern
May 2013Montclair State University
2010 Outstanding Classical Performer
May 2010William Paterson University
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