Matthew Reichert
What do you teach at the Prep Center?
Violin and Suzuki violin.
Why did you begin taking music lessons?
My grandfather played the violin as a hobby, and my parents wanted me to play with him at family gatherings.
Did you always like to practice when you were a child?
I did not like to practice. My mother had to coax, cajole, etc.
Do you have a favorite musical memory from childhood?
I enjoyed attending concerts of Itzhak Perlman and Pinchas Zukerman.
How do you vary your approach when you teach children at different ages and levels?
Parents are much more involved when younger children study. With older students, it is much more about motivation and self-discipline.
Have you had any students with notable accomplishments (acceptance to a select middle school, high school, or college; competitions; special performances)?
My students have been prize winners at the International Youth Competition, LaGuardia High School, Special Music School High School, Juilliard Pre-College, and Manhattan School of Music Graduate Program.
What are your most important goals for your students?
To give them the best foundation possible.
What are the most important recommendations that you give to parents whose children study music?
Students can learn to appreciate music by observing classical music concerts. Parents should take their children to see live music performances in the instrument they are studying.