Silvia Adams

  I have been a music educator for 16 years.  I  have worked  in public school settings as a band director as well as general music teacher for multiple grade levels.  I have been the director of two elementary and middle school bands and the general music teacher in two different urban public schools over the last ten years.  My most recent experience is in three distinct urban K-8 schools, where I have been successful in conceiving and implementing high-quality instrumental music programs.

I am a  Saxophone player, and I grew up in Connecticut.  I graduated from Salve Regina University with a degree in Music Education, and I have earned my Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of St. Joseph. I am certified as a Professional Educator in the state of Connecticut. 

 I truly enjoy teaching students of all levels and all ages, from the beginner elementary student, and beginner adult, to the more advanced students. I emphasize a students strengths', and go from there. I truly believe that everyone is capable of learning to play and enjoying an instrument. I believe that everyone that has a desire to learn an instrument is capable of that, and I work with my students individually to unlock that potential. I believe that success breeds success, and I look forward to working with you to be successful. 

 In working with beginner as well as advanced students, I emphasize the basics of playing an instrument, as well as developing practice skills and rhythmic reading skills. I also focus, especially with more advanced students, on developing  music literacy,and sight-reading skills, along with continued focus on further developing practice skills.  I feel that an emphasis on developing these skills is important, because it can  tap into a students' potential, and to help them become lifelong independent musicians. In my opinion, knowing how to practice, and being able to make those decisions, is a fundamental part of being a successful musician, which is why that is a main focus in my instruction.

As a private instructor with the chance to work one-on-one with students, my focus would be on the individual needs of the student, as well as developing or continuing to develop musicianship, sight-reading and music reading skills, as well as proficiency on the Alto Saxophone, clarinet and flute. I also will work with students to develop general music skills, such as reading notes, reading rhythms, as well as write simple compositions and simple chordal structures. 

Here is an example of a sample beginner Saxophone lesson:

https://youtu.be/2aDxNUiDMg8

 Testimonials

By Julie Carroll, Assistant Curriculum Director: Music - Lynn Public Schools, Lynn MA on 7/16/2020

Saxophone, Online

I have had the pleasure of knowing Silvia as a professional colleague for 20 years. She is an experienced, educated and passionate music teacher, who has a well-developed ability to accommodate individual students' needs and learning styles. She is especially aware of what the beginning and intermediate woodwind player finds challenging, and I enthusiastically recommend her as a private instructor.

By Michael on 7/15/2020

Clarinet, In studio

I have shared band duties with Sylvia at  school. She is a caring teacher and a skilled musician. Her skills and knowledge of woodwind instruments are fantastic. As a teacher she inspires her students to work to the best of their abilities. It has been a joy to work together with her to further our Band program.

In my instruction in individual lessons, I focus on teaching practice methods, as well as music literacy,and sight-reading. I feel that this is very important, as it is the basis for developing a strong sense of confidence and musicianship that the student will be able to use in a variety of setting, if they play solo, in a band, or in a small group. My philosophy is student centered, meaning that the needs and goals of the individual student determine the course of study. 

 I love teaching beginning  and intermediate students the basics and fundamentals to give them a solid foundation on which to build their career and course of study. I feel that having a solid musical foundation is so important to continued success and enjoyment of playing.  

 For adult students, the lesson will be designed around a flexible curriculum catered to what the student wants to learn and at their own pace. If necessary the basics of music theory will be covered, and the goal will be to get you playing as soon as possible! I relate well to children, and I have extensive experience working with elementary and middle school students of all levels. As with all of my lessons, the lesson is student-centered and my style can be adapted to the learning needs and style of the student.