Music theory is the study of the structure of music. Or more simply put, it’s the language used to talk about the music we hear and play. Learning music theory is one of the most important things a musician can do as it helps them to not only become better performers, but also have a better understanding of the music they are playing and hearing. It also makes musical activities such as performing, composing, improvising, arranging, teaching music, or getting a music degree much easier once one gains a basic understanding of music theory.

During our piano lessons students will learn a range of different music theory subjects. The first thing we teach is notation which covers the staff, clefs, note names, rhythms, rests, intervals, meter and time signatures, key signatures, and dynamics. Students will also be taught about scales and chords (harmony), melodies, phrases, and musical forms. Whether you are an absolute beginner or already know a lot about music theory our piano lessons are individually tailored to cover everything from the most basic scales to the most advanced notation.

Sight-reading by definition is the reading and performing of a piece of written music that the performer has not seen before. It is also referred to as prima vista, which translates to “at first sight,” which is exactly what we teach our students to master: the ability to read and play a piece of music upon first sight. Just like learning to read words, learning how to sight-read music takes a lot of practice and discipline until it eventually becomes second nature. In each of our piano lessons, students are given a range of different tasks and activities to help them increase their sight-reading ability. They not only become adept at playing the notes accurately, but also learn to read and anticipate the changing dynamics in speed and volume as written.

Our exercises focus on honing students’ short-term musical memories to allow them to read ahead while playing a piece so that they play it correctly when they get to that section. Often highly skilled musicians can sight-read silently, meaning they can look at printed music and hear it in their heads without playing or singing it. All musicians are required to have good sight-reading skills as this makes learning new pieces much easier and quicker. As a result students are more likely to try learning new pieces of music by themselves, making them stronger and more well-rounded performers.

Whilst music theory and sight-reading are all used to train a musician’s ears to recognize intervals and chord qualities, learn how to perform melodies and rhythms accurately at sight, and practice writing down musical examples upon hearing them, Musicianship is about training the student not just to be a player of piano, but to be a true musician.

Many pianists are great technically, but they lack that something special which usually separates the great from the average. Good musicianship involves not only understanding how to use the piano but how to convey your story or message to the audience using emotion, passion and flair, allowing you to interpret a piece of music in an original and inventive way while still remaining true to the written score. During each piano lesson students are encouraged to feel the music they are playing and to improvise rather than to simply follow what the teacher is reciting, helping them to develop their confidence and own unique identity as a musician.

"Daniella was great with our 8 year old!  She tailors the piano lesson to individual interests, is kind and patient (and talented!) and she is truly enthusiastic about music education. She taught our son so much in such a short time, and we are forever grateful for the incredible foundation he got working with Daniella." --Leah, NJ

"Daniella is the best teacher and my son adores her!!" --Deeni, NYC

"During COVID I reached out to Daniella to see if she could teach my daughter how to play piano over Zoom. Not only did she accept the challenge, but my daughter has learned so much and although they have never met in person, my daughter can play and has even done Zoom recitals. Daniella is an incredible teacher who is patient and passionate with teaching kids. Couldn't recommend more." --Gabrielle, NJ

Music & Me time is one of your baby’s favorite things – AND it’s one of the best things for your baby’s developing mind. Your baby’s brain is filled with billions of neurons waiting to be connected through sensory stimulation. Music & Me baby music classes offer a sensory-rich environment to create and strengthen neural pathways, enhance your bond with your child, and help you understand the stages of her development.

 Babies enjoy exploring, reacting to new sounds, sensations, and environments. They’ll begin to use developmentally appropriate instruments like: shakers, rattles, drums, and tambourines in activities designed to develops both hemispheres of the brain. There’s plenty of side-by-side play with other babies in a Music and me class, and you’ll get to cuddle, hum, and dance together, all key inputs into your baby’s ability to develop early bonding and social skills.

 Along with learning songs and exploring instruments, older infants will start to develop both gross and fine motor skills through fingerplays, movement, and discovering how their bodies work as they become new walkers.

No matter if your baby is 12 weeks, 3 years old, or anywhere in between, there’s something for them to learn and ways to grow in Music & Me classes!