Piano with Melissa M.

I am a classical trained singer and pianist originally from CT. I graduated from Hofstra University with my Bachelor of Science in Music Education as a dual piano/voice major. I've been living in New York since 2006 where I've had the opportunity to perform with and learn from many amazing musicians. I have been teaching piano lessons for the last 10 years to students of all ages, from 5-adult. I have worked with students ranging from beginner to advanced, students with special needs, have prepared students for NYSSMA (level 1-6), and have organized music recitals. I cannot imagine doing anything else! I can’t remember a time when music wasn't a huge part of my life. Two childhood music teachers inspired me deeply, and through my childhood piano teacher I started teaching for the first time in 2005. From my first lessons, I was hooked! In 2006, I was accepted at Hofstra University as a Music Education major with a dual concentration in piano and voice. At Hofstra, I studied with Donna Balson (voice) and Marilyn Lehman (piano). I performed in numerous ensembles, including Hofstra Chorale, Hofstra Chamber Choir, Solos Duos and Trios, and Vocal Jazz. In addition, I premiered a work for piano and French horn with a professor, accompanied, and collaborated with other pianists. Since 2005, I've been actively looking to expand my piano studio. Currently, I teach over 35 students a week! I feel so lucky to do something everyday that I truly love. My teachers taught me so much about being a musician, but most importantly about being a person. I hope that the inspiration and passion that has been given to me by my teachers is something I pass onto my students. Whatever your music goals, I am confident that I can help you get where you want to be. Thank you for reading, and good luck with your musical pursuits! :-) *** Lesson Details *** Lessons are differentiated for the needs of each student based on their personality, learning style, ability, and goals. Some students need more structure, while others thrive in a less structured environment. Some students can be pushed harder, while others retreat from pressure. I am fairly laid-back, but expect effort each week that is appropriate for each student. I understand that life is unpredictable and that some weeks my students may be less prepared than others, but I hope that most of the time my students will meet the practicing goals we make together. In lessons I am very fun and enthusiastic about music. Above all, I believe that lessons should be fun. Students will be motivated to put in the work for something that they are passionate about. The music that my students learn depends on their goals. My students play classical, pop, and everything in between. I think that every musician benefits from a classical foundation and that everyone, regardless of musical preference, should be well-rounded. Music selection is always something that I discuss with my students, because I always want them to enjoy what they’re learning. *** Travel Equipment *** Student is expected to provide a full keyboard or piano. *** Specialties *** I teach mostly classical music. Note: I prefer the Schaum series, but beyond the beginner level, I tend to pick individual pieces. Even if a student is using a method book, 99% of the time I like to supplement the book with appropriate pieces.