Phil's Music

With over three decades of experience in teaching and performing music, I am a versatile musician, performer, and educator. I have acquired advanced skills on the piano, clarinet, and saxophone and possess a wealth of knowledge in all three areas as both a performer and teacher. Besides my permanent certification as a music teacher in NY State, I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from the Indiana University School of Music, as well as a Master's Degree in Music Education from the University of North Texas. I am well-versed in various musical genres including jazz, classical, pop, rock, blues, and country music.

My students and audience members often describe me as warm and engaging. Over the years, I have performed on various instruments such as the piano/keyboards, saxophone, and clarinet, and have even sung lead and harmony vocals in different bands and styles. I am also a dynamic MC, band leader, and solo pianist/vocalist.

As an instructor, I use motivational techniques to teach piano, clarinet, and saxophone to help students develop strong playing technique, enhance their expressive musicianship, sight-reading skills, as well as equip them with a sound knowledge of music theory and improvisation. Whether they are into classical or contemporary music, I make sure that the lessons are fun, engaging, and taught with humor and personality to lead them to the joy of musical expression. I am passionate about diverse music styles and am not afraid to motivate and engage students using music that interests them. My teaching method incorporates colorful graphics, audio, and video recordings of professional musicians to help students understand various musical concepts better, and I also support students as they prepare for the NYSSMA Solo Festival.

Rock, Blues, Country, Folk, Jazz, Classical, Recommendations available