Some of Eleonor Bindman’s greatest satisfaction comes from teaching, which she has done for over 20 years. Ms. Bindman holds an M.A. in Piano Pedagogy from SUNY New Paltz and maintains a private studio in Park Slope, Brooklyn. She works with students of all ages and levels, from absolute beginners to other accomplished artists and educators. She takes care to nurture the developmental skill and self-esteem of younger pupils and to guide them to the sense of accomplishment that can only come after genuine challenge, dedication and effort. Her teaching style, however, always remains relaxed and entertaining. This approach is evident, for example, in Ms. Bindman’s An American Calendar, published by Carl Fischer, a set of 12 recital pieces for children recognized for its quality, originality and wit.
In addition to giving private lessons, Ms. Bindman has been a piano faculty member at a number of different music schools including the Boerum Hill Talent Education Studios in Brooklyn, The Academy of Music at Ramapo College, NJ, The Essex Conservatory in Leonia, NJ and the Elaine Kaufman Cultural Center in New York City. She has conducted piano master classes in various venues, including Steinway Hall in NYC, and served on juries for young performer’s competitions. A dedicated advocate of a well-rounded musical education, Ms. Bindman also has extensive experience teaching music theory, ear training, music history/appreciation and piano literature, as well as coaching chamber music groups.
Resources
As an educator, Eleonor feels compelled to further the reach of classical music into our society. Listening together at home is THE MOST effective way to make kids more receptive to it. Furthermore, listening is free and accessible to everyone these days, as opposed to taking lessons. Put on some classical music when your toddlers are eating instead of a video, when your kids are doing homework, when you are making breakfast on a weekend morning and they are playing…. Children are completely open to the “wordless” language of music – despite our apprehensions that might they need lyrics to engage. Bonus: if you have pets, they will enjoy it too!