Students will build core skills like technique, rhythmic feel and reading, and explore larger concepts like improvisation, composition, music theory, voicings and more. James specializes in genres such as jazz, R&B, Latin American music, pop, rock and contemporary styles. When working with songwriters and composers, James assists with music production, arranging, recording and notation (including notation software).
I teach piano with a focus in modern styles like jazz, pop, R&B, and more. I teach my students skills like improvisation, composing, chart reading and sight reading, piano technique, music theory, music production, arranging, performance techniques, ear training, time feel and more.
I love being able to share the gift of music. It has brought me immense joy and has taught me so much about life. It is so rewarding to see students develop a similar excitement and appreciation of music.
At the age of 4 I started lessons in piano and percussion and I have been hooked ever since. Since I was 14, I have been playing gigs in New York for jazz artists, singer-songwriters, rappers, fusion bands, salsa bands, and more. I attended the well-known LaGuardia High School for the Performing Arts and Music and Art, where I studied vocal music. After graduating from Laguardia, I received a scholarship to study at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, where I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Piano Performance. I continue to play, record, and compose for artists in New York City as well as for my own artistic projects. I believe we as musicians are always learning and I am constantly practicing and learning from my peers.
I believe that music should be a fun activity and my teaching style focuses on cultivating a love for music in students of all ages. I work with students to build skills by studying the music they most enjoy playing and listening to. I also encourage creative activities like improvising and composing. I believe mistakes are opportunities to learn and can often be doorways to discovery.
I am constantly inspired by musicians around me. I try to play with others, see live music and listen to new music as much as possible. I think collaboration is the cure to creative blocks.