Piano with Jennifer S.

I have proudly been teaching music privately for 10 years. I have worked with hundreds of children molding their young musical talents. I enjoy being able to see them grow from year to year which is one of the reasons I chose private as opposed to public schools. It's a thrill to have a student with me from a little kid in elementary school all the way until graduation and, know that I was there to help them not only through their musical endeavors but, also through life. I have experience in all types of music and, I also specialize in NYSSMA, SCMEA, college, and pre-college prep. In college I studied jazz and classical music and also participated in musical productions in and out of school. I played for many years in my church choir as a flautist and clarinetist. I have also been assistant engineer on recordings. I am also very knowledgeable in rock and pop music, and I find it a lot of fun sharing that with my students! My students participate in yearly recitals which I organize, have been in parades, and have even had experience doing recording sessions at young ages. I have taught hundreds of students of all ages, and I'm confident that no matter what you are looking to learn I will be able to help you reach your goals! *** Lesson Details *** I believe every student is different. Some students benefit from more strict methods , while others need a more laid back approach. I like to use a little of both. When it's time to work, we work, but we can also have fun when it's appropriate. Over the course of the first few lessons, I will evaluate exactly what approach you or your child needs to succeed. Over the first few months, students will generally have at least a basic knowledge of their respective instrument and be able to play songs proficiently. My students are encouraged to fill out a practice record so I can better evaluate what they need to work on each week and, so I can plan our next lesson appropriately. The one thing I cannot ever stress enough is PRACTICE! It is very important to put in effort if you want to succeed. I know there will be some times where a student will go through a rough spot and my job, and responsibility, as your teacher is to support and encourage. There is no greater feeling for a student than when they accomplish something through adversity. I love to see their face light up when they get it. I look forward to seeing what heights we can climb! *** Travel Equipment *** If need be I will usually pick up books and supplies, such as reeds,picks, cork grease, metronomes etc... It is essential that students have their own instruments so they are able to practice during the week. I also will provide students with a practice sheet. I also usually provide audio samples of pieces the students are working on and try to record their practices at times so they are able to hear themselves play from another perspective. *** Specialties *** I specialize in teaching jazz, commercial, and classical music. I also specialize in teaching young children who are gifted at their respective instrument. I have instructed children who have been accepted into Stony Brook and Julliard pre-college programs. I also have extensive experience in preparing students for NYSSMA and SCMEA competitions. I try to have every student participate because they are a great way for students to learn to perform a prepared piece of music. It also gives them a sense of accomplishment that they have pushed themselves to the next level. I also have prepared recitals for my students and had to prepare students who were to participate in recitals for studios in which I have previously worked.