Jessica P.

Piano, violin, viola, cello, bass

     

Jessica has been teaching piano and string instruments to students of all ages for more than 15 years. She holds a master’s degree in Music Composition from the Brooklyn College Conservatory of Music, and is licensed to teach music in public schools in both New York State and Connecticut.

 

She believes that the focus of lessons should not only be on learning to play the instrument, but also on learning good playing habits and the most effective practice techniques. With these tools, a student can continue to make progress, even outside of the lesson. Jessica also emphasizes the importance of proper physical control of the instrument.

 

Jessica has performed in improvisation, avant jazz, experimental, folk, soul, and chamber ensembles since moving to NYC in 2000. She currently performs with the group Normal Love, in a duo with guitarist Mary Halvorson, with Anthony Braxton's ensembles and as a solo violist.

 

As a composer, The Wire magazine praised Jessica’s “ability to transform a naked tonal gesture into something special,” and The New York Times described her music as "distinct and beguiling...its core is steely, and its execution clear."

 

Jessica has toured extensively throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe. Her music has premiered in venues that include New York City’s, Roulette, Issue Project Room, and The Kitchen, and at the Klangbad Festival in Sheer, Germany. In 2011 she was featured in NPR’s “The Mix: 100 Composers Under 40.”