| Theory and Improvisation |
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Andy Wasserman specializes in teaching his students the meaning behind the music through traditional Western music theory and George Russell's Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization. He includes quite a bit of theoretical information in his instrumental lessons but is also working with a few students whose entire focus is the study of music theory.
Additionally, Andy teaches musicians how to improvise and express themselves freely and with originality on any instrument. The two disciplines of music theory and improvisation go hand in hand. Think of music theory as learning how to speak a language and improvisation as then deciding what it is that you wish to say in that new language.
A student must be an advanced beginner on their instrument and at least 9 years old in order to pursue these subjects.
Anyone can learn how to improvise within any style of contemporary music, but the art of improvisation is often best suited in the context of Jazz - American's indigineous improvisational music.
In this study the student learns to listen and build phrases that communicate a coherent, simple and clear meaningful musical statement while exploring rhythmic invention. Andy gives you the tools to build your own improvised sound with a time-tested method of teaching from the perspective of self-expression and creativity. After all, that's what improvisation is all about - and music theory gives you the map with which to navigate your journey of exploration.
These lessons can be of tremendous help to aspiring songwriters and composers in mastering their artistic and aesthetic judgment as well.
For general information about Andy's music instruction, including curriculum, policy, testimonials and links to his educational and professional resume,
As a full time professional musician and educator with over 30 years of teaching experience, Andy approaches every student as an individual regardless of their level. He does not have a preconceived rigid program or use a "cookie-cutter" plan that plugs a person into his methodology. Instead, he sees each student - young or old - in relation to their potential, addressing the student's own interests and goals and adapting to their strengths and unique talents.
Wasserman's mission is to nurture, motivate and inspire the innate talent within each student. This is achieved by creating a unique program of study that leads to the fulfillment of their complete musical potential. He truly enjoys teaching, and maintains a fresh and vibrant atmosphere during the lessons by meeting the challenge to find what is most productive for each student. This educational philosophy allows room for experimentation in terms of course of study, books, and curriculum content. The goal is to allow the student to tap into the positive emotions and mindset that fuel the fire of passion for learning through the joy of music making.
Unlike many other professional musicians who teach, he not only enjoys working with the advanced student, but is humbled and honored to be working with children with no previous experience. This is evident in the comfortable learning atmosphere he creates that fosters the development of a love and appreciation for all that music has to offer. The study of a musical instrument accelerates the growth of intelligence and establishes a keen sense of personal discipline while nuturing the valuable virtue of patience. By focusing the mind and calming the nerves, music making is one of the healthiest outlets for self-expression, balance, creativity and joy.
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ANDY WASSERMAN'S PRIVATE MUSIC LESSONS MISSION STATEMENT