Peter Rushing

Teaches Piano & Songwriting/Composition

About Peter

I’m a jazz pianist and graduate of the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University in New Brunswick. At Rutgers, I played in and recorded with the top jazz bands and got the opportunity to play with my professor Orrin Evans at the Birdland Jazz Club, a historic jazz venue in New York City. I regularly play at various venues in the tri-state area, including Chris' Jazz Cafe in Philly. As a teacher I aim to foster in my students the same well-rounded musicianship that my time at Rutgers has helped me develop. It is important to engage the students in a variety of activities — rhythm training, sight-reading, and performances — not only to keep them focused but also to further that goal of musicianship. Well versed in music theory and aural skills, I have been playing piano since the age of 6, initially studying classical music before branching off into jazz and contemporary styles.

"It is important to engage the students in a variety of activities — rhythm training, sight-reading, and performances — not only to keep them focused but also to further that goal of musicianship."

What is a musical obstacle that you remember overcoming? How did you overcome it?

When I was younger it was difficult to play jazz language at a fast tempo. I overcame this by playing riffs and scales at very slow tempos, making sure that every motion was as relaxed and economical as possible.

What style(s) of music do you like to play the most? Why?

Above all else I like to play jazz and experimental music because of the freedom and self-expression they foster.

What other instruments, aside from the ones you teach, have you played before?

I played alto saxophone from middle school through sophomore year of high school when I played first chair in our school's jazz band.

When did you start playing music, what brought you to it?

When I was five years old I would "write rock songs" and sing at the piano. I developed an interest in music through the music my parents would put on -- the Beatles, Rolling Stones, and Green Day.

What are some musical goals you hope to achieve in the future?

When I was a student at Rutgers I had the honor of playing with older grad students that were already established in the jazz scene. I want to be able to play with them again but in a professional rather than academic setting.

What are some of your favorite teaching moments?

I like when I can get my students to laugh and learn at the same time. It's also very satisfying when students finally accomplish something that has previously been difficult for them. Above all I love to see my students get excited about music or just start playing something they learned at home on their own.

What advice could you give to someone who has just begun learning music?

To have patience and never be afraid of mistakes. It's also important to find what music speaks to you and is fun for you to play.

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