**More valuable than my college experience in music performance/education**…read more I found myself in need of a world-class mentor when I unexpectedly took possession of a marimba recently. I hadn't played in over a decade but already had a degree in music. I stumbled across Simon in a marimba group on Facebook and saw how HAPPY he was playing. I live in the Midwest but decided to begin online lessons with him. After a few months here's what I can tell you: Teaching virtually doesn't hold him back and we make incredible strides during each lesson. I have "qualified" teachers locally but Simon's philosophy, ACTIVE status as a PERFORMER, and ability to help me as a serious freelance musician mean that he's the right choice even if it's on Facetime. He's SO MUCH MORE than a technical skills teacher! Look, I'm not doing this as a hobby or playing at coffee shops - I'm making this my CAREER through paid public performing and studio recording. That means I need an experienced mentor that can guide me through the minefields of being an independent musician: we spend our lessons going over anything from how to strike a marimba bar to get the best sound, posture, to how to run a music business. I'm not in a cookie-cutter program with Simon, he teaches to MY level, MY goals, and has MY best interests in mind - things that college failed miserably at doing. Much of his website states "the only __in Westchester" but really there's no one ANYWHERE doing what Simon's doing in a way that's accessible worldwide. I WISH I was one of his teen students that have access to his approach so early in life!! Take it from this mid-30s mom making music a profession that Simon is the BEST and worth so much more than what he asks.

I'm a musician and was searching for the right drum/percussion teacher for my Granddaughter. She is…read morevery talented, so I needed the right teacher to take her to the next level. It was important to me that she learn rudiments , how to read drum scores, etc. Since I also wanted her to learn a melody instrument and become proficient with scales, chords and reading melody lines etc. I knew I needed a teacher who was trained in all aspects of percussion (especially mallet instruments like vibraphone, marimba etc.). To make a long story short, I was running out of options, than I found Simon. My granddaughter has progressed beyond my wildest expectations. She now wants to audition for NISMA and the "all state band ". She is learning drums and marimba. Simon keeps it interesting but is demanding (in a good way), my granddaughters talent demands this, she takes her music very seriously as do I. Simon is the best around, I recommend him 200%, and thank God I found him. Thankfully submitted, Joe Picciano

Not well equipped to deal with behaviors or special needs children. Overstuff classrooms tooread more

Our children have attended the Goddard School for almost 6 years now and it is the best daycare /…read morepreschool center in the area by far. The teachers have exceeded all expectations between their patience, kindness, knowledge, and overall compassion. Our children have excelled and thrived at such a young age. The teachers have provided such a wonderful, fun, and loving environment where kids can be kids but also learn the tools they need to begin elementary school. Our son went off to kindergarten a year ago and he was fully prepared and actually ahead of other students due to the preparation that Goddard provided. Our daughter is graduating this year and the same goes for her. She is thriving in all areas! Ms. Felecia and Ms. Casey are the absolute best.

I've been taking my children to Mr. Ernie's music together classes for the past 6 years. It is an…read moreamazing class that introduces babies and toddlers to music. There are plenty of instruments, activities and movement that go along with a cd and music book for each semester. Me. Ernie is compassionate and knowledgeable and has a true love for children and music.

Absolutely wonderful experience every time. Some of the best artists in the world come to this…read morecharming venue to teach. With gorgeous views of the river, much wildlife can be seen from every window (we saw foxes, eagles, and lots of other animals). Each participant has their own table to work at; no crowding, with plenty of room for all your gear. The hosts are truly wonderful- very welcoming and accommodating. Don't worry if you forgot to bring something, they have spares to loan. Lunch on the patio overlooking the river each day during the workshop is a special treat. I will continue to come back every year!

Great set-up and location overlooking the Hudson, wonderful owners, great teachers and good…read morecamaraderie among students. I learned so much in the classes, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., my workshop was 4 days and worth it completely!

This is a large, airy studio with a warm and helpful crew. I signed up for a studio membership and…read moream really thrilled to have found it. The owners are thoughtful and helpful. The studio is well equipped with clay (red and white), tools, and glazes. I have a shelf for on-going projects. It is spotlessly clean unlike so many dusty pottery studios. The turn around time for firing is much faster than many other studios. I highly recommend.

Attended an event at the studio on Tuesday and it was amazing. The owners are wonderful, and I'm…read morelooking forward to returning for a class. This was my very first clay experience so try not to laugh too hard at my cup/bowl or and it was not intimidating. It was fun and definitely support this young small business. Looking forward to a glaze class. Updated review yesterday. I attended my first Wheel class and take a look. It was so successful. Ashley was my instructor. She's amazing run don't walk to your first class make your appointment.

It's intriguing to me (an educator) that Northern Academy of the Arts offers a program in which…read morestudents can do real, actual science, in partnership with NASA. Students won an award for their science work. Northern is a fascinating example of STEAM--science, technology, arts, music. Northern offers ballet, classical music, and classical Chinese dance, along with the humanities and science programs. We visited an arts studio on campus, too, with student's skillful work displayed. A parent spoke of how flexibly the faculty designed course work for his sons--one was extremely good at math, and they let him advance into a much higher grade to do challenging work. Another was extremely poor at Chinese, and the school found two others who were novices and created an ultra-beginner class just for them. If only all schools could do such things! It's good to see a school restoring and using the abandoned Beaux Arts buildings that had become so blighted. Glad they preserved the graceful proportions and aged brick of the old buildings, while making it modern and bright inside.

What an incredible school. They have done amazing things with the area. The school has greatly…read moreimproved the surrounding areas as well. Its a beautiful environment and an amazing day lace for children to gain an exceptional education.

Frank is a great musician. It has been great to work with him. He really knows the guitar and he…read morereally knows jazz. I would encourage anyone who wants to know more about music and guitar to take lessons.

A couple years back, I bought my first acoustic guitar from Shawn. I was impressed with the level…read moreof service I received, especially considering my modest budget. I got a guitar that looked, felt, and sounded better than I would have expected. Fast forward to now when I bought my first new electric guitar and Shawn did it again! I got more than I expected on a budget, both when it comes to service and quality. Shawn and his team are experienced, knowledgable, and professional through and through. I never felt pressured and always felt as if my beginner-level questions were taken seriously. My only regret is that I have yet to find the time to sign up for lessons. I know I'll be coming here when I do.

Very nice folks - thanks a ton for helping me with questions on an old amp repair! I hope to visit…read morethe Center in person in the near future!