Dave carroll - president, Owner
Instruments: Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Guitar, Ukulele
Experience: 15+ years of teaching Band, Chorus, and General Music in several public schools in the Boston area, including Quincy and Newton public schools, Performing professionally,
Studied: Boston University
Specializes in: Music Education, Jazz, Classical, and Rock 'n Roll
Approach: Teaching with positivity and adapting the eduction to each students' individual learning style is the key to success. Creating a safe place for learning where students can feel free to ask questions, make mistakes, be themselves, and develop their musicianship independently leads to great learning. Teaching with positivity and excitement while sharing a passion for music allows the student to develop a deep appreciation and understanding of music.
riley lepere
Instrument(s): Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Trumpet, Guitar, Bass, Piano, Harmonica, Banjo, Mandolin, Music Production/DAW, Drums, 1st Instrument Trial Lessons
Studied: Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities, Berklee College of Music Contemporary Writing and Production
Experience: 10+ Years Performing and Teaching
Specializes in: Musical Theater, Pop, Rock, Classical
Approach: I love to get to know my students and use their lived experiences to make a connection to music that much easier! I have experience working in mental health and am a firm believer that music is a personal journey, and the quickest way to success is to take it things at one’s own pace and enjoy the process! I think that music is about connecting with others and yourself, and emphasize this human aspect in my teaching. Students can expect to learn the music that they want to as well as the fundamentals of their instrument through a combination of in-person instruction and customized lesson materials for individual practice.
clara mazo
Instruments: Violin, Viola and Trumpet
Experience: 18 years of playing violin and 10 years playing trumpet
Studied: The Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Specializes in: Classical, Folk, Jazz
Approach: Finding the students individual love for music and cultivating it is so important. Everyone is different and learns differently so being able to teach and cater to different interests/ ways of learning is what I believe inspired students to keep playing.
john Paolilli
Instruments: Guitar, Bass, Ukulele
Experience: 15+ years playing and teaching.
Studied: Berklee College of Music
Specializes in: Rock, Pop, Country, Blues, Jazz
Approach: My teaching style is focused on the music that inspires the student to practice and learn. Through this approach, we discuss all the techniques and theory needed to achieve musical proficiency and eventually excellence.
AARON BELLAMY
Instruments: Bass, Guitar, Music Production, Music Theory, Song Writing
Experience: 25+ years performing, touring and recording with National and local artists including Chaka Khan, G Love, The A-Beez. Production/Engineering credit on a multitude of records and singles. Private Teacherfor 10+ years, Bassist for Roxbury Presbyterian Church (2010-2020) Milton Academy Gospel Choir. Producer, Composer and Arranger: The A-Beez.
Specializes in: Funk, R+B, Rock/Metal, Reggae, Pop,
Approach: My goal is to encourage each student to explore various musical styles that resonate with them. I encourage students to learn the language of music through music theory and technical exercises as well as learn how to express themselves artistically and spiritually. I want my students to feel empowered and inspired to learn and grow into better musicians with each lesson.
yifei Zhou
Instruments: Voice and Piano
Experience: 10 Years of voice and piano performance and teaching. Professional performance in different local venues in Shanghai and Boston, Private voice and piano lesson teacher, Ensemble Coaching, Ear-Training Tutor
Education: Jazz performance BM at New England Conservatory, Jazz voice performance MM New England conservatory
Specializes in: Jazz, pop, improvised music, and songwriting.
Approach: My teaching approach is balanced between encouraging creativity and assisting students with techniques when necessary. We will investigate music from various musical perspectives, and I will assist students in envisioning their voices in their musical journey. I also encourage students to learn and reconsider techniques as a means of supporting music. We will explore various vocal techniques and sounds in music while supporting each student's unique sound.
Ben kersh
Instrument(s): Drumset, Guitar, Piano
Experience: 20 years of performing, 15 years of teaching experience
Studied: Bachelor of Music from Berklee College of Music
Specializes In: Rock, Jazz and RnB
Approach: I usually spend half of the lesson on technique and the more mechanical parts of playing the instrument such as scales, rudiments, reading, and different exercises. Then I spend the other half of the lesson working on music and I try as much as possible to work on songs that fit the interests of the student.
Shooka afshar
Virtual Lesson Teacher
Instruments: Piano, Voice, Flute
Experience: 22 years of performing, 10 years professional teaching
Studied: Master’s Degree in Music: Classical Vocal Performance from Longy School of Music; Teaching Artist Certificate from Longy School of Music; City of Boston Certified Artist; Dalcroze Eurhythmics training
Specializes in: Piano: Classical and Pop, Voice: Classical, Musical Theater and Pop,
Flute: All Genres
Debbie Apple
Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello
Experience: Over 10 years teaching privately
Studied: Bachelor of Music summa cum laude, University of South Carolina; Master of Music, The Boston Conservatory
Specializes in: Classical
Approach: I believe that through learning music, students are exposed to the joy of expression, the value of perseverance, and the rewards of collaboration. By providing individual private lessons personalized for each student’s goals, I nurture growth by emphasizing a well-rounded musical understanding in addition to building a quality performance ethic. I introduce musical expression and phrase interpretation at every level of playing. Ear training, theory, and history also play a large part of my musical instruction as students learn that technique always serves musical expression. Ultimately, I strive to share the love of all kinds of music with every student in a way that enriches their lives.
EVELYN ANN
Instrument: Piano
Experience: I graduated from Hanyang University in South Korea with an undergraduate degree in piano and voice and attended pedagogical classes in music education at Standford University in California. I worked as a member of various musical ensembles, including with the Korean National University of Arts and New England Conservatory in Massachusetts. I have 18 years of experience teaching and tutoring piano.
Studied: Hanyang University in South Korea (Undergraduate/Graduate), Stanford University in California (Music Education)
Specializes in: Classical, Jazz & Blues, Pop, Rock, Improvisation, Music Theory, and Western Music HIstory
Approach: I am an accomplished and dedicated piano instructor who is well-versed in working with students of all ages and levels of experience. I teach students a variety of musical genres, including classic, pop, rock, and jazz & blues. I focus on a balanced and dynamic approach to teaching that incorporates a variety of applications ranging from technicality to artful expression while also identifying and analyzing areas of improvement. My teaching philosophy involves high consideration of students' specific difficulties and developing key solutions that target and address those areas.
Zach Baskin
Instruments: Electric/Upright Bass, Guitar, Ukulele
Experience: Active performer, promoter and educator with years of private lesson and ensemble experience in various schools
Studied: Berklee College Of Music, B.A. in Music Business & Professional Music 2009-2014
Specializes in: Rock, Pop, Jazz, Funk
Approach: Teaching technique and songs through motivating exercises, promoting that music should be fun first and a great outlet for expression.
annie linders
Instrument(s): Trumpet, Trombone, Guitar, Piano
Experience: 12 years experience gigging with various bands, 7 years of experience as a bandleader, 4 years teaching music in public schools, 12 years teaching private lessons, teaches bands at the Soloman Schechter School in Newton
Studied: Bachelor of science in music education from University of Missouri - Columbia
Specializes in: Traditional Jazz, folk, Modern jazz, Blues, Neo Soul, Pop
Approach: I use a combination of reading and ear training when working with students. My goal is to find out a student's music interest and find songs that they will want to play. Of course, it is important to make sure that the fundamentals and technique of playing are there. I tend to end lessons with a little bit of ear training and music games. I teach musical vocabulary as it relates to the individual songs we are working on.
calista richlen
Instruments: Flute, Guitar, Ukulele
Experience: Private teaching for 6 years, group woodwind instructor for 6 years, Early Music Education for 2 years
Studied: Tennessee Technological University BA in Music Performance, currently studying at Longy School of Music of Bard College MM in Flute Performance
Specializes in: Flute performance through the Renaissance until modern periods, performance anxiety, and extended techniques
Approach: I strive to ensure my students learn the theory as well as how music is performed. It's important for students to know the history, and use that to make their own informed musical decisions. With playing and performing, tone and technique will be an everlasting focus to ensure that the student has the tools to create their voice with their instrument.
Joshua garver
Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello
Experience: 25 years of experience as a violinist. 14 years of teaching experience, including significant classroom teaching at the elementary and middle school level, small group lessons, and private teaching.
Studied: Bachelors of Instrumental Music Education (Strings) from Jacobs School of Music, Indiana University. Masters of Music in Music Education, Boston University.
Specializes in: Classical music and beginning string pedagogy/teaching.
Approach: I believe a healthy musical foundation is key. String musicians need to be set up with an emotional and physical relationship with their instrument from the very first lesson. When students are able to create beautiful sounds with freedom of physical motion, they are more inclined to continue. High expectations, supportive feedback, and growth mindset in a non-judgmental learning environment are key to setting musicians up for success. I aim to create that environment with each of my students, meeting them where they are and helping them to achieve their musical goals.
Irene CHoi
Instrument: Piano
Experience: Over 20 years teaching experience in Newton and the greater Boston area
Studied: B.A., University of California, Davis, M.M., New England Conservatory, Boston
Specializes in: Classical, Jazz, Vocal Accompaniment
Approach: I give my students an experience that is well-rounded and fun. I feel it is important to end each lesson with the student feeling both challenged and inspired, always wanting to come back for more.
Cara Bergantino
Instruments: Violin, Viola, Cello
Experience: Over 10 years of teaching experience in group, ensemble, and private settings
Studied: Master of Science in Arts Administration, Boston University, Bachelor of Music in Music Education, New York University
Specializes in: Classical
Approach: As a teacher, I aim to foster a fun and inspiring musical environment where students feel supported and encouraged to reach their musical potential. As someone who has worked with students of all levels and abilities, I am able to adapt my teaching to meet my students' needs and help them achieve their goals.
Shannon Corey
Virtual Lesson Teacher
Instruments: Piano, Voice, Songwriting
Experience: Piano Player/Singer/Songwriter National and International Tours with original music: opened for Lady Gaga, Jon McLaughlin and sang back up on tour with Stephen Stills. 10+ years of Classical/Pop piano/voice teaching experience. Received a Yamaha endorsement for 2007-2010 and won the ASCAPLUS award in Jazz & Popular Division in 2010 and 2011. The voice of the“WAYFAIR” jingle that you can still hear on TV today!
Studied: Berklee School of Music - Boston: Theory Program Certificate, Piano Performance Program Certificate. Mannes School of Music at The New School - NYC: Encores Program: Piano Pedagogy certificate. The Royal Conservatory of Music - Toronto: Elementary Piano Pedagogy Certificate, Intermediate Piano Pedagogy Certificate.
Specializes in: Classical, Music Theory, Musical Theatre, Pop, and Songwriting.
Approach: Each child that walks through the door is gifted with his/her own strengths in music. Being able to encourage and empower them through these gifts is what I believe to be most important. Finding a balance between technique, theory, note reading and just plain fun will give each child a well rounded and enriching music experience. I also like to see what music the students are inspired by and can personally create an arrangement of that song for them at their level. As a piano teacher I focus on pop music, classical studies, and songwriting. Every child will get a strong foundation in note reading, theory, technique, ear training, and will build a repertoire of classical and pop songs. They will also get the opportunity to sing while playing, because singing helps with memorization! From there, I will curate a program that fits the child’s needs and focuses on their strengths and passions, while maintaining the important standards necessary to complete each level!
Veronica Ramirez Diaz
Instruments: Voice, Piano, Guitar, Ukulele
Studied: Bachelor of Music in Jazz Singing at EAFIT (Medellín-Colombia)
Specializes in: Rock, Pop, Jazz, Latin, Musical Theater, Classical
Approach: My approach encourages active engagement, allowing students to immerse themselves fully in the learning process while gradually introducing important musical terms that connect their practice to foundational music theory. Teaching through method books as well as supplemental materials. I teach using a mix of imitation and exploration, guiding students to develop a strong awareness of how their body moves while playing. This helps them gain better control and confidence.
In addition to focusing on technique, I believe in creating a positive, kind, and fun learning environment. I strive to make each lesson not only educational but also enjoyable and fun, fostering a space where students feel comfortable and excited to explore their musical journey. My teaching style is engaging and dynamic and structured, providing students with clear goals and the support they need to succeed.
Each student is unique, so I tailor my lessons to fit their individual needs and learning styles. Whether they’re just beginning or refining their skills, I develop a personalized education plan that helps them progress at their own pace, building both confidence and musical ability. My goal is to ensure every student leaves their lesson feeling accomplished and inspired, ready to take on new challenges with enthusiasm.
Gladis Gissela Henríquez
Instruments: Flute, Piano, Ukulele
Languages: English, Spanish
Experience: I have been able to combine two of my biggest passions by sharing my music with the audience and sharing my musical knowledge with students of distinct levels and age. During the past years, I have been teaching Piano, Ukulele, and Flute. I consider myself a very patient, passionate, and fun teacher who always feels inspired to find the best learning methods depending on the student’s
goals and interests.
Studied: Texas Christian University (Bachelor’s in Flute Performance), Duquesne University (Master’s in Flute Performance), and Longy School of Music (Master’s in Music Education)
Specializes in: Classical, Contemporary, Pop music, and Movie soundtracks, Latin, and Music Theory.
Approach: I believe each student deserves the opportunity to learn music in a positive, fun, safe, and welcoming
music classroom. As a teacher and performer, I am passionate about helping students discover their musical journey.
Thus, I like to bring innovative ideas and music activities that can encourage all children to participate and feel
welcome to experiment music in a way that can help them express themselves. Together, we will dive into the
magical music world and learn to make music of our own!
Cassie Kollman
Instrument(s): Voice, Piano, Guitar, Songwriting, Ear Training
Languages: English, Spanish
Experience: 16 years of performance band leadership experience, 13 years of studio instruction experience. Songwriting since 2010, released first record in 2021, second record in production
Studied: M.M. in Jazz and Contemporary Music (Voice), Longy School of Music of Bard College, Somatic Voicework Vocal Pedagogy Certification Level I and II
Specializes in: Contemporary Voice (jazz, pop, rock, r&b, blues, soul), vocal improvisation, songwriting/composition
Approach: My teaching philosophy is to help students identify their artistic goals and move towards them through technique development, the introduction of new repertoire, evolving study and composition tools, and working together to cultivate a sense of confidence in their musicianship and artistic identity. In particular for singers, I place emphasis on ear training, developing effective study/reading strategies, bandleading, lead sheet writing, and efficient practice tools. I believe that confidence grows as musicianship develops, and I am committed to creating an encouraging, non-judgmental, and purposeful learning environment for my students.
SHON GORDON
Instruments: Bass, Guitar, Ukulele
Experience: 8 years teaching privately to students of all levels. Has been playing bass professionally in New England for 12 years with bands ranging from video game music to jazz to top 40.
Studied: Berklee College of Music pro-music with a focus in Music Education and Performance.
Specializes in: R&B, gospel, classic rock, pop & jazz.
Approach: I center my curriculum around what the student is interested in, while creating a well rounded musical education. It’s important to keep the lessons light and fun, while also creating structure and progression.
Hadley Lloyd
Instruments: Drum Set and Percussion, Beginning Guitar, Beginning Piano, Early Childhood, Rock Bands
Experience: I have experience teaching both private and group percussion/drum set lessons. I teach individuals with special needs at the Berklee Institute of Arts Education and Special Needs (BIAESN), and I teach a Percussion class and an Introduction to Band class at the North End Music and Performing Arts Center (NEMPAC). I have been playing the drum set for 16 years and have been gigging for the past two years.
Education: University of Connecticut, B.A. in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences with a concentration in Human Development and Family Studies. M.M. in Music Education and Autism at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee.
Specializes in: Jazz, R&B, Funk, and Rock
Approach: Everybody learns differently! My goal is to individualize the lessons in order to celebrate each person's unique learning style. I believe that learning happens when the material presented is geared towards individual interests and musical goals. It is important to incorporate valuable musical concepts and techniques within the lessons in a fun and engaging way. My hope is to help foster a welcoming and inclusive environment in order for each individual to get the best out of their musical experience!
Christine Lin
Instrument(s): Violin, Viola, Cello, Piano, Early Childhood
Languages: English, Mandarin
Experience: Violinist in the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra since 2021. Playing Piano and Strings 20 Plus Years. Certified in Suzuki Violin Unit 1.
Studied: Master's Degree in Violin Performance from Boston University, Pursuing Master's Degree in Music Education at the Longy School of Music
Specializes in: Classical
Approach: My teaching philosophy is centered around fostering a proactive attitude and open-mindedness to cultivate a love for music. I place great emphasis on students' attitudes and their progress in learning. My goal is to guide students toward adopting a healthy perspective through their music education, equipping them to face any challenges, whether immediate or in the future. My teaching pedagogy incorporates the Suzuki method, Orff, and Dalcroze approaches. I adapt my methods to suit each student's unique situation and needs, believing that customized private lessons can be both powerful and meaningful for their development.
Jen Kearney
Instrument: Piano, Voice, Guitar, Songwriting
Experience: 28 years as a professional musician/singer/songwriter/bandleader. 18 years of professional teaching.
Studied: UMASS Lowell (Music Performance Major)
Specializes in: Funk, Soul, Rock, Jazz, Pop
Approach: I believe that music is a true source of joy and human expression that is far beyond entertainment. I believe it connects people on a very visceral level. My approach is to be a guide for a student to enter what will hopefully be a lifetime of musical fulfillment. I use a combination of traditional methods of teaching with theory and reading as well as what I feel are more natural “by ear” methods. I encourage students to find their unique “voice" on their particular instrument. I try to foster the sweet spot of gaining technique through practice while truly enjoying the fun and creative journey that music should be.
Jason Wang
Instruments: Viola, Violin, Piano, Guitar, Ukulele
Languages: English, Mandarin & Taiwanese
Experience: Suzuki licensed teacher, experienced in teaching ages 3-8 Suzuki method with parental involvement as well as teaching group Violin and Viola classes. Teaching Violin/Viola to students All Ages and All Levels across North America. All ages and All levels. 10 years of experience playing in various styles and settings of performance: Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Music, Solo Recital and Experimental Music concert.
Studied: Advanced Music Studies Certificate in Viola Performance - Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), Master Degree in Viola Performance - Texas Christian University (TCU), Bachelor Degree in Viola Performance - University of Southern Mississippi.
Specializes in: Classical, Cover Songs, Soundtracks, Improv and Pops, Cross-Genre
Approach: My approach is using a storytelling way of teaching music to evoke each person’s unique voice in a musical form. I am fascinated by all the genes of music and how music is connected to people’s minds. My artistic goal is to use the power of his instrument-playing to advocate and empower the uniqueness of each person.
Poh hock kee
Instrument(s): Guitar, Piano, Early Childhood Lessons
Languages: English, Malay
Experience: 23 years performing and 16 years of teaching experience at multiple music schools in Boston and Malaysia. 6 years of touring experience within North America with my own bands.
Studied: Berklee College of Music
Specializes in: Rock, Pop, Metal, Classical, Music Production and Composition
Approach: My goal is to inspire students to play, create and to express themselves freely through music in a fun learning environment while incorporating ear training, sight reading, music theory, technique exercises to help strengthen a student's foundation. Lessons are based on a student's needs and goals whether it be learning their favorite songs, or composing music on a DAW like Garageband.
Seba Molnar
Instruments: Saxophone and Clarinet
Experience: Over 10 years of experience performing and teaching a variety of styles from classical and jazz to pop and reggae.
Studied: Bachelor of Music, Berklee College of Music
Specializes in: Jazz, R&B , Reggae, Classical, Theory, History and Improvisation.
Approach: Core elements of my curriculum focus on learning songs, harmony, ear training, and sight reading as well as instrumental technique and skills. Music is about having fun and expressing ones self in a creative way. My goal is to help my students understand the fundamentals of music so that they can not only enjoy the music they make but have confidence in themselves and their skills.
sophie Paul
Instrument: Cello, Piano
Experience: 15 years playing, performing and 4 years teaching
Studied: B.M. Cello Performance, University of Puget Sound; M.M. Cello Performance, Boston Conservatory at Berklee
Specializes in: Classical
Approach: I aim to foster a strong understanding of music-making fundamentals that students may carry with them for the rest of their lives in whatever capacity they choose to pursue music. In lessons, I focus on developing technical and musical skills by catering to each students’ unique learning style and personal goals in a way that is thoughtful and individualized. Lesson materials will include a variety of technique and repertoire method books, music theory materials, and incorporate songs of the students’ choice.
Jenn WOng
Instruments: Piano/Keyboards/Audio Production
Experience: 13 years of performance experience (bands/touring/session musician), 11 years of professional teaching experience working with students aged 4 - 65.
Studied: B.A., Hons in Piano Performance/Professional Music, Berklee College of Music, Boston MA
Specializes in: Contemporary Piano / Pop / Rock / Blues / Jazz / Film Score / Classical / Production / Sound Design
Approach: You-name-it, we-play-it! I believe everyone’s musical journey to be different and deeply personal. Some students are visual learners, and some students enjoy a more structured approach! My teaching style is rooted in classical fundamentals with a contemporary twist aided by modern technology. Whether you’re preparing for a music career; want to learn how to put together an at-home recording setup; or just looking to play songs that you love, rest assured that you will be part of a learning environment that is engaging, safe, and prioritizes your individual needs!
Melissa Glaister
Instruments: Voice, Piano
Experience: 25 years of voice teaching classical, broadway and pop styles all levels to beginners and advanced students, 7+ years teaching piano, 30 years of performance in various venues
Education: St. Louis Conservatory Master of Music, New England Conservatory Graduate Diploma in Vocal Studies
Specializes in: Classical ,American Songbook , Broadway, Children’s Voices, Healthy Vocal Production for All Ages
Approach: Kind and creative in building positive interactions in lessons for sound and confidence. Finding a healthy balance of repertoire and exercises, including movement and drawing for freedom of sound, expressive singing, with both short-term and long-term goals included. As a teacher, I look at the journey as the tools for making an artist learn, thrice and shine. I believe in setting goals that keep students motivated in the present, while also guiding them toward their long-term aspirations. Whether it’s mastering a new piece, building vocal range, or gaining confidence in performance, I work closely with each student to ensure they’re progressing at their own pace and celebrating each milestone along the way. My hope is that, through this process, students not only become more skilled musicians but also more self-assured, creative individuals who carry the joy of music with them throughout their lives.
Carly Bednarsky
Instruments: Voice, Piano
Experience: 15 years of singing experience, teaches private voice and piano students of all ages at Amy Dancz Voice & Piano Studio in Boston, and teaches voice/piano at LB Music School in Medford; teaches choir at Andover High School for their after school show choir program.
Studied: Boston Conservatory at Berklee, MM in Vocal Pedagogy; Muhlenberg College, BA in vocal performance
Specializes in: Musical theatre, Pop, Classical
Approach: My goal as a teacher is to create a warm and constructive environment that encourages students to always find joy in music and creative expression while striving for achievement and progress. I am committed to teaching solid technique and assigning appropriate exercises and repertoire for the student’s skill-level, while being attentive to their goals and interests. Ultimately, I want my students to have fun and leave their lessons feeling happy, challenged, and accomplished.
Pat Speece
Instruments: Bass, Guitar, Piano, Drums, Ukulele
Experience: 20+ yrs teaching, 17+ yrs playing professionally
Studied: Berklee College of Music, Prins Claus Conservatory (Netherlands)
Specializes in: Jazz and Improvisation, Rock, Pop, and Classical styles, Music Theory
Approach: I believe in fostering a love and appreciation for music is an essential first step to learning. Whether focusing on reading music, building repertoire, playing by ear, improvisation, or composition, there are many paths to success in music and I try to tailor my approach to the individual student.
Noah Dresser
Instruments: Viola, Violin, Conducting
Experience: 14 years of professional playing experience, 9 years of private teaching experience.
Studied: Master's Degree from Longy School of Music. Bachelors of Arts from the College of Wooster.
Specializes in: Violin and Viola - all ages (including adult beginners)
Approach: I am a strong believer in using our instruments as a vehicle for personal development, much like training a sport, business endeavor, or any other pursuit that requires consistent work over time. Throughout my playing career, I have noticed that I may have learned more “life lessons” from playing viola than I have in just about anywhere else. Through work on the fundamentals of the instrument and standard repertoire, I view each lesson as an opportunity for growth, not only as a musician, but as more well-rounded individuals.
JAke Hirsch
Instrument(s): Saxophone, Flute, Guitar, Clarinet, Bass, Music Theory/Production
Experience: 10+ years of performing, recording, and teaching experience
Studied: Dual Degree in Jazz Composition and Performance from Berklee College of Music
Specializes in: Jazz, Progressive Metal, Funk, Rock
Approach: I am all about applying interesting and exciting harmonic and rhythmic concepts to actual music. For me it is all about finding that spark of curiosity in a student and exploring it to its fullest potential! I like to balance my lessons with a mix of ear training, conceptual learning, and in some cases working out of method/etude books, all centered around catering to the individual needs of the student.
Nic Adams
Instruments: Trumpet, Drums, Saxophone, Clarinet, Guitar, Bass, Early Childhood
Experience: Played in Newton South’s nationally acclaimed jazz program, (Lincoln Center, Mingus jazz festival), bassist of Boston-based band Trash Rabbit, studying Music Education at Berklee College of Music
Studied: Berklee College of Music
Specializes in: Jazz, pop, rock, music production
Approach: I believe that learning is best achieved when it is centered around the student. My lessons are always based around my students’ favorite music, interests, curiosities, and personalities. I want my students to learn in a safe space where they can feel comfortable to experiment and explore new musical ideas while also learning and having fun. I strive to find a balance of technique, theory, musicianship, and creativity that can inspire each individual student to learn and grow!
XIAO (MONIQUE) ZHANG
Instrument: Piano
Experience: Classically trained, started learning piano at age 3, taught private piano lessons on Zoom/ in-person as a freelance piano teacher. Multiple performance experiences in the past as a soloist and with groups.
Languages: English, Mandarin Chinese
Studied: Berklee College Of Music - Bachelor of music performance
Specializes in: Classical, jazz, blues, basic improvisations
Approach: My goal is not just offering performance preparation and piano lessons, but also building the student's interests, musicality and teaching them to enjoy their musical journey. My style of teaching is changes based on the students' needs mixing books, techniques and my own methods of piano teaching. Students choices for songs are highly-encouraged as well. I want to ensure each student has an efficient and positive learning experience in my lessons.
david ling
Instruments: Piano, Keyboard, Clarinet, Saxophone
Experience: David is a Malaysian-born composer, performer, and educator currently based in Boston, MA. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory, he is a highly sought-after musician in the Boston and New England music scene. His current projects include an upcoming album release and tour with Grammy-nominated vocalist Debo Ray, and a monthly residency at Boston’s historic Wally’s Cafe with his 16-member Wally’s Jazz Orchestra. David has also received recognition for his work as a composer, winning the prestigious ASCAP Young Jazz Composer Award in 2019.
Studied: Berklee College of Music, New England Conservatory
Specializes in: Jazz, Classical, Pop and other contemporary styles, improvisation, composition/arranging, music synthesis
Approach: I believe music education should be both fun and engaging for the student and teacher. I develop personalized lesson plans based on each student’s interests with an emphasis on creativity and self-expression. I also incorporate fundamental musical basics in creative ways to keep things interesting for the student.
malachi provenzano
Instruments: Violin and Viola
Experience: Teaches over fifteen students in both violin and viola working for several music institutions throughout the Boston area. Has taught for over five years, and has studied violin since the age of four, performing in orchestra, chamber music, and solo concerts.
Studied: Studied at Mannes Prep in highschool, attended Boston Conservatory under the tutelage of Sharan
Leventhal for his Bachelor’s, and now is pursuing his Masters Degree at Boston University studying under Bayla Keyes.
Specializes in: Primarily western classical music, but also loves bluegrass and folk traditions of many countries and cultures, and tries to incorporate many different styles of music in his teaching.
Approach: I strive to give all of my students the technical and musical tools that they need to foster a love for the instrument that they play. Technique is very important to me, but for technique to become important to a student, they first need to love playing music, so I spend a lot of time playing with my students during lessons and asking them questions about the music they are practicing.
john frazee
Instruments: Brass, Percussion, Woodwinds, Strings, Piano
Experience: Over twenty years as a public school music educator. Thirty years of experience as a performer and band leader.
Studied: Bachelor of Arts Westfield State University; Master of Music in Education The Boston Conservatory
Specializes in: Classical, Jazz and Pop music
Approach: I focus on teaching the essential skills needed to play an instrument, from mastering the basics to developing a deep understanding of technique, rhythm, and musicality. By breaking down the fundamentals, I help students build a strong foundation that sets them up for success in their musical journey.
In addition to teaching the technical aspects of playing, I take the time to explore each student’s personal goals and ambitions. Whether they want to play for fun, perform in front of others, or eventually pursue music at a higher level, I tailor my approach to meet their unique needs and aspirations. By understanding their individual motivations, I can create a more engaging and meaningful learning experience.
Charice Tang
Instrument(s): Violin, Viola, Piano
Languages: English, Chinese(mandarin), German
Experience: 6 years of private teaching; 4 years of teaching Violin and conducting group Dalcroze classes in Stuttgart Music School in Germany; Former Teaching Assistant in Boston Strings Academy, El Sistema Somerville, Longy Side-by-Side Orchestra from 2021-2023.
Studied: Longy School of Music, Robert Schumann Conservatory Düsseldorf (Violin Performance); State University of Music and Performing Arts Stuttgart (Elementary Music Education)
Specializes in: classical, pop, chamber music.
Approach: I incorporate Dalcroze Eurythmics methods into instrumental lessons. This unique approach encourages students to discover the musicality and rhythms within their own bodies, creating a more profound connection to music. As a professional chamber musician, I also encourage my students to start playing in small ensembles at an early age. I emphasize the importance of teamwork, communication, and artistic expression when coaching students in chamber music. This approach allows students to excel in small ensemble playing, fostering a deep appreciation for the collaborative aspect of music-making.