Welcome to my flute studio page!
My Experience
Over the past 10 years, I have had the fortune of working with many students of all backgrounds and ages, from 3 to 71 year olds. I enjoy teaching both beginning students and advanced students. It is equally exciting to help students make their first sound, and to help them study pieces in detail and prepare for auditions.
What I teach
The core of my teaching is based on the foundations of classical music. Starting with developing great tone and technique, I work with students on how to make beautiful musical phrases, how to play stylistically, and how to be a confident, happy musician. The repertoire I teach varies from classical, popular, jazz, and music from around the world. My lessons might also involve improvising and composing!
Through flute duets and flute/piano pieces (I play piano, so I accompany my students), I teach how to play well in an ensemble. I enjoy working with the individuality of each student- his/her personality and musical preferences. Each person is unique and has their own unique music inside of them - I like to discover this and let it blossom!
Some helpful info...
Buying a flute
Choosing a flute can be daunting, especially for beginning flutists. If you are in New York, I suggest you visit:
- JB Weissman Music Company -Jeff Weissman's flute shop in Queens. You can even make a private appointment.
- Flute Center of New York - Near Columbus Circle in Manhattan.
The staff are helpful and knowledgeable. Don't be afraid to ask questions and try different flutes. Take your time in choosing the right flute for you.
If you are too far from these shops, I suggest you find a specialist flute shop or a specialist woodwind shop in your area.
Your First Lesson
Bring yourself just as you are, because that is a great starting point! Please also bring:
1. Your flute
2. A notebook
3. If you have previous experience, please bring music books that you were most currently working on, and a piece that you feel comfortable to play for me (it doesn't have to be perfect!)
Parents are always encouraged to sit in.
Further details about my teaching
My Vision
I aim to nurture well-rounded musicians who play from their hearts. In other words, through my lessons you will learn to read notes, proper technique, listen well, and be creative.
I strive to be a positive presence in my students' lives. I will be encouraging, patient, and challenging.
Foundation and Technique
It is important to learn the foundations of flute playing well. Yes, it's hard work- but it's worth it! There are a lot of helpful exercises. Some materials I use are:
Marcel Moyse - De la Sonorite, 24 Little Melodic Studies, Tone Development Through Interpretation
Taffanel & Gaubert - Daily Exercises
Reichert - Seven Daily Exercises Op. 5
among many others.
Repertoire
In my lessons, I use materials from the classical flute repertoire, from baroque to modern music. I combine this with pieces from around the world and from different genres. There is far too many to mention here, but here are some examples:
- Arabic music - teaches you a lot about rhythm, ornamentation, and improvisation
- Brazilian chorinhos - they are great for your fingers and stamina!
- Broadway tunes
- Children's songs
- Classical - From J.S. Bach and Mozart to French pieces and contemporary works, classical flute repertoire is rich and varied.
- Disney tunes
- Japanese folk music
- Jazz standards
- Movie soundtracks
- Pop songs
Creativity
I value creativity in education. I encourage improvisation and composition at all levels of learning and use a step by step approach.
Nobuko teaches the flute and shinobue at her home studio in Manhattan, and throughout New York City and nearby states.
All ages and levels welcome
Location
Upper West Side, NYC
I also travel to students' homes.
In the Bronx, I teach at Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center, where I am a faculty member.
Skype lessons are available.
Questions / Contact
E-mail: info(@)nobuflute.com (Please replace (@) with the @ sign.)