Piano with Matthew G.

Private Piano Lessons

Offering private piano lessons with a strong focus on sight reading and the fundamentals of musical theory through analysis and performance of the early classical repertoire, while providing tools for improvisation in various musical forms, especially 12 bar blues and pop. Providing guidance for the implementation of proven techniques—parental involvement, establishment of a practice routine, and praise-based acknowledgment of achievements—to ensure progress of the young student. Teaching older students self-motivation techniques and practice-management skills to heighten the efficacy of time spent at the instrument, as well as regularly communicating with older students about the musical world at large—current top 40 songs, musical traditions of other cultures, etc—to increase the scope of their musical journey. Detailed notes taken during every lesson, reviewing material covered and clearly outlining practice objectives for coming week. Quarterly assessment of student’s goals and current musical interests, to assure continued progress and enjoyment.

The New York Learning Center

Providing dynamic music instruction to children aged 5-18, with a strong focus on group performance and camaraderie. Instruction through delight directed studies, constructive silliness, and establishment of well-defined goals. Lessons focused on sight reading and ability to improvise in various musical styles. Transcribing arrangements of current Top 40 hits specifically created for student's proficiency.

Artscape, LLC

Provided musical arrangements and worked closely with students of George Westinghouse High School for several productions under the guidance of Artscape, LLC.

Kaleidoscope Productions

Developed and taught vocal workshop, focusing on breath control, fully supported tone production, maintenance of raised soft palate, improved diction and stage presence. Workshop culminated in group and individual performances for family and friends.

Great Meadows Middle School

Developed and taught after school Shakespeare workshop for upper-grade middle school children. Program focused on heightened language, interpretation of meter, projection, exaggerated precision of physicality, and basic unarmed combat. The program concluded with an evening performance of famous scenes from the canon, specifically chosen to highlight each student’s strengths in order to ensure a positive performance experience.

Great Meadows Middle School

Worked with 5th through 7th grade classes, providing fun, enjoyable instruction in singing and performing the great works of musical theater through MTI’s “Jr.” catalogue. Successful productions of The Wizard of Oz, The Music Man, Annie, Into The Woods, and Once On This Island were mounted for both daytime peer performances, as well as evening performances for family and friends.

Pax Amicus Castle Theatre

Directed and Musical Directed productions for Generation Next, a community theatre program for teens. Through an insistence on encouragement and support among teen performers, and providing a safe, judgment-free environment, Generation Next has become a very successful youth-driven program, performing many fairy tale classics such as Cinderella, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty as well as main stage productions of Annie, Into the Woods and Rent.