| Music as Therapy |
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Listening to beautiful sounds and being open to creating musical beauty can modify one's emotions, purify the soul, and bring very deep, satisfying levels of enjoyment. But did you know that in ancient times, music was played to heal illness? This point can be traced back ancient China. As seen here, the "characters" for medicine (yao) comes from the character for music (yue).
In his private lessons with people of all ages and any type of special needs "disability," Wasserman finds ways to unlock the music inside each student. It is that inner music that hears and can ultimately play the musical instrument.
Most students with special needs begin on percussion instruments and move on to the piano or the instrument of their choice.
You can read more about Andy Wasserman's experience with what he terms "Holistic Music Healing" HERE. Feel free to contact Andy to discuss the possibility of music as therapy lessons. Students are accepted on a case by case basis in order to make sure that there is a high level of comfortability and the proper personal chemistry between both teacher and student. 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