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Samantha's photo

Samantha Z.

5(7)
USD $100/hr
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PhD Musicologist, Composer, and Experienced Teacher 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️

Tutor Information

About

Hi! I have a PhD in musicology and have taught music theory and history at both Ivy League and community colleges. As a music scholar, composer, and performer, I have found that it is not enough to study a textbook. To become truly "fluent" in a skill – to develop such an experienced ear, feeling, and mind for a subject that it feels totally natural – we need to unleash our inner curiosity. Rather than forcing my students through a strict, traditional regimen, I view my work as that of a guide. I help my students explore their own passions and goals. I inspire them to ask questions and think independently. I am particularly keen on navigating my students through the vast and amazing world of FREE online music resources and communities. In addition to private tutoring, I have taught music theory and history at Brown University, New York University, Hebrew College, and the Borough of Manhattan Community College. I've written several blogs, including one on the music theory of Disney music. As an out-and-proud transgender woman and omnisexual, I understand and fully support LGBTQ+ students. I look forward to working together!

Location

West Hartford, Connecticut, United States

Language

English, Yiddish, Hebrew (modern), Russian, German, French

Timezone

America/Toronto

Levels

Elementary
Middle School
High School
College/University
Professional

Education

New York University

2012 - 2019
PhD, Musicology

University of Michigan

2005 - 2009
Bachelor of Music, Music History

Work Experience

Borough of Manhattan Community College

August 2018 - November 2018
Adjunct Lecturer of Music Theory and Piano

Brown University

August 2017 - December 2017
Visiting Lecturer of Music Theory

New York University

August 2013 - December 2015
Lecturer of Music, Teaching Assistant

Reviews

Excellent Liturgical Hebrew and Trope Tutoring

Perfect combination of tutor-directed guidance and student-directed customization. Great pacing. Highly recommended.
By: Douglas Nathan

Excellent Yiddish teacher!

Excellent Yiddish teacher -- I've been studying with Sam for a couple months now and each lesson is incredibly helpful, not only in learning the language but also in learning more about Yiddish culture, music, poetry, etc. Cannot recommend her enough!
By: Ada

Excellent, Deeply Knowledgeable Teacher

Really one of the best teachers I've had: patient, non-judgmental, funny, warm, and is an incredibly knowledgeable person. My Yiddish learning has been scattered and a bit all over the place, some areas more built up than others, had missed some fundamentals, etc. because much of it was self-taught. But I've been provided a lot of structure now through a very thoughtful and adaptable teacher! It's already making a world of difference, can't wait to continue these lessons!
By: Yuval

First time doing online tutoring and definitely will continue learning Yiddish with Sam!

Sam is a very knowledgable tutor and a very friendly person. It was my first time using an online video call for language learning and just from the first lesson I know that I want to keep learning with her. We talked about my goals in the Yiddish language and developed a plan of action. I am excited for the next lesson!
By: Deric

Dynamic, Knowledgeable and Patient Teacher

Sam has helped me immensely in improving my musicianship skills. It is not easy for an academic to teach their expertise to someone who is an adult beginner, but Sam does it exceptionally well. She teaches music in a way that I am able to grasp easily and she is extremely patient when I am learning a new concept.
By: Jana