Peter R.

Jazz pianist and Rutgers graduate who builds well-rounded musicianship through rhythm, reading and performance.

Teaches at Collingswood
In studio or online

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“Have patience and never be afraid of mistakes. Find the music that speaks to you and is fun to play.”

About Peter

I’m a jazz pianist and a graduate of the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University. At Rutgers I played in and recorded with the top jazz bands, and I got to play with my professor Orrin Evans at Birdland, the historic jazz club in New York City. I play regularly at venues around the tri-state area, including Chris’ Jazz Cafe in Philly.

I’ve played piano since I was 6, starting with classical music before branching out into jazz and contemporary styles, and I’m well versed in music theory and ear training. As a teacher I want to give my students the same well-rounded musicianship Rutgers gave me, so we mix things up with rhythm training, sight-reading and performing. It keeps lessons focused and builds real musicians.

What Peter teaches

Piano
Composition

Lessons in studio at Collingswood or online.

Played alto sax from middle school into high school, where he sat first chair in the jazz band.

Get to know Peter

How I got started

When I was five I would “write rock songs” and sing at the piano. I got into music through the records my parents played: the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and Green Day.

What I love to play

Above all, jazz and experimental music, because of the freedom and self-expression they allow.

My advice for beginners

Have patience and never be afraid of mistakes. It’s also important to find the music that speaks to you and is fun for you to play.

A favorite teaching moment

I love getting my students to laugh and learn at the same time, and it’s so satisfying when they finally get something that used to be hard. Best of all is seeing them get excited about music, or start playing something at home on their own.

An obstacle I overcame

Playing jazz language at fast tempos was hard for me when I was younger. I practiced riffs and scales very slowly, making every motion as relaxed and efficient as possible, until the speed came.

What’s next for me

At Rutgers I got to play with older grad students who were already established in the jazz scene. I want to play with them again, this time as a professional.