Brandon Kurzawa, studied music at Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, obtained a
Bachelor of Arts in Music, specializing in music performance, from Rutgers University and a
Masters of Arts in Education, specializing in curriculum, instruction and computer education
from University of Phoenix. A member of NJ Music Educators Association (NJMEA), The National
Association for Music Education (MENC), Percussive Arts Society (PAS) and The College Music
Society (CMS), Brandon is an educational endorsee and contributor for Vic Firth, Inc., the
largest manufacturer of drumsticks and mallets. Brandon has recorded with singer Amanda
Avila (2005 American Idol contestant, Smokey Robinson), acclaimed singer-songwriter Anthony
Krizan (Lenny Kravitz, The Spin Doctors) and currently performs as a freelance musician
throughout the New York metropolitan area. In 1995 Brandon appeared in Promark
Drumstick's "Not Yet Famous Drummer" promotional advertising campaign which appeared
internationally in Modern Drummer magazine and The Music Paper. Mr. Kurzawa, an award
winning musician, was an adjudicator for student evaluations and New Jersey's Teen Arts
Festival in 2007 for New Providence High School in New Providence, NJ.
Recording credits include drums on Ansel Matthews’ Raised From The Dust and drums and
percussion on John Sonntag’s 2006 critically acclaimed release Chasing Stars, which was
number four in New Jersey’s Top Ten 2006 Releases by Courier News Entertainment Editor,
Bob Makin. As a member of Indie-Rock band Violet Truth, Brandon recorded drums and
percussion and toured nationally in support of their 2000 release Candy Coated. Brandon's
publications “Teaching Music, Teaching Percussion: A Balance in Curriculum” appeared in
Tempo Magazine’s October 2006 issue and "Teaching Music: Music Majors, Choose Education"
appeared in Tempo Magazine's May 2007 issue. In 2007, Music Notes Academy and Mr.
Kurzawa were recognized by Metropolitan Who’s Who for excellence, leadership and
achievement in the profession of music education. Mr. Kurzawa has instructed music at
Rutgers University (New Brunswick, NJ), Kean University (Union, NJ) and is an adjunct
professor of audio engineering, music and music production at Gibbs College, Livingston, NJ
campus.
Bachelor of Arts in Music, specializing in music performance, from Rutgers University and a
Masters of Arts in Education, specializing in curriculum, instruction and computer education
from University of Phoenix. A member of NJ Music Educators Association (NJMEA), The National
Association for Music Education (MENC), Percussive Arts Society (PAS) and The College Music
Society (CMS), Brandon is an educational endorsee and contributor for Vic Firth, Inc., the
largest manufacturer of drumsticks and mallets. Brandon has recorded with singer Amanda
Avila (2005 American Idol contestant, Smokey Robinson), acclaimed singer-songwriter Anthony
Krizan (Lenny Kravitz, The Spin Doctors) and currently performs as a freelance musician
throughout the New York metropolitan area. In 1995 Brandon appeared in Promark
Drumstick's "Not Yet Famous Drummer" promotional advertising campaign which appeared
internationally in Modern Drummer magazine and The Music Paper. Mr. Kurzawa, an award
winning musician, was an adjudicator for student evaluations and New Jersey's Teen Arts
Festival in 2007 for New Providence High School in New Providence, NJ.
Recording credits include drums on Ansel Matthews’ Raised From The Dust and drums and
percussion on John Sonntag’s 2006 critically acclaimed release Chasing Stars, which was
number four in New Jersey’s Top Ten 2006 Releases by Courier News Entertainment Editor,
Bob Makin. As a member of Indie-Rock band Violet Truth, Brandon recorded drums and
percussion and toured nationally in support of their 2000 release Candy Coated. Brandon's
publications “Teaching Music, Teaching Percussion: A Balance in Curriculum” appeared in
Tempo Magazine’s October 2006 issue and "Teaching Music: Music Majors, Choose Education"
appeared in Tempo Magazine's May 2007 issue. In 2007, Music Notes Academy and Mr.
Kurzawa were recognized by Metropolitan Who’s Who for excellence, leadership and
achievement in the profession of music education. Mr. Kurzawa has instructed music at
Rutgers University (New Brunswick, NJ), Kean University (Union, NJ) and is an adjunct
professor of audio engineering, music and music production at Gibbs College, Livingston, NJ
campus.
Music Notes' Curriculum & Instruction
Music Notes Academy offers instruction within a developed curriculum which combines
classical and jazz performance areas of study while also tailoring instruction to match each
student's individual musical interests and goals. Students are a first priority for Music Notes
Academy and the focus is always on music instruction and a well-rounded music education.
Instructors at Music Notes Academy offer audition, evaluation and competition
preparation in addition to regular instructional lessons. Students are encouraged to inform
instructors and directors of upcoming auditions, competitions, performances and recitals.
Students of Music Notes Academy have been accepted into Jazz Bands, Marching Bands,
Region and All-State Bands and college, as music majors, upon auditioning.
Music Notes Academy students will study and learn music with dedicated, knowledgeable
and university-trained and degreed music instructors. Music instructors have degrees in
music, music performance, music education, education or related studies specializing in
unique areas of study. Instructors are also performing/recording musicians, collegiate-level
educators, public school educators and freelance instructors and writers with other
organizations that support music and music education.
Music Notes Academy offers instruction within a developed curriculum which combines
classical and jazz performance areas of study while also tailoring instruction to match each
student's individual musical interests and goals. Students are a first priority for Music Notes
Academy and the focus is always on music instruction and a well-rounded music education.
Instructors at Music Notes Academy offer audition, evaluation and competition
preparation in addition to regular instructional lessons. Students are encouraged to inform
instructors and directors of upcoming auditions, competitions, performances and recitals.
Students of Music Notes Academy have been accepted into Jazz Bands, Marching Bands,
Region and All-State Bands and college, as music majors, upon auditioning.
Music Notes Academy students will study and learn music with dedicated, knowledgeable
and university-trained and degreed music instructors. Music instructors have degrees in
music, music performance, music education, education or related studies specializing in
unique areas of study. Instructors are also performing/recording musicians, collegiate-level
educators, public school educators and freelance instructors and writers with other
organizations that support music and music education.
- Students Increase Confidence & Unlock Musical Potential. Music Notes Academy
instructors will motivate and encourage students to succeed with their music studies
while encouraging consistent practicing and diligent work ethics. - All Instructors Have Undergraduate/Graduate Degrees In Music, Music
Performance, Music Education & Education. Music instructors only instruct instruments
and areas of specialty and are dedicated to the musical growth of each student.
Instructors are educated in curriculum, instruction and teaching strategies and have a
commitment towards excellence in education. - Instructors Prepare Students For Performance Auditions, Evaluations, Competitions
& School Band Performances. Students have participated in NJMEA Auditions, Region
Band and All-State Band performances, Jazz Bands, Orchestras, Marching Bands and
Rock Bands. Students have been accepted as music majors at colleges and universities.
Students who play an instrument in their school band music program can receive
additional instruction with a private instructor who specializes in specific instruments. - Schedule Flexibility & Convenience For Students & Parents Is Always Available.
Students and parents avoid traveling to a school or location when the teacher comes to
you! Parents can more easily arrange extra-curricular activities without the obligation of
traveling to a school for music lessons. Mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends and
summer sessions are available for the convenience of students to receive
comprehensive music instruction in a familiar, secure environment away from unfamiliar
distractions outside the home. - Students Receive Instructional Materials, Method Books & Supplemental Repertoire
From Teachers. Students of Music Notes Academy avoid traveling to music stores and
retail establishments to search for instructional materials as requested from our
instructors. Music Notes Academy has a large inventory of sheet music, method books,
repertoire and educational media which offer students the most comprehensive music
education. Teachers provide materials as needed to students to avoid interruption in
instructional progression. - Parents Are Encouraged To Be Actively Involved In Their Child's Education. A
commitment towards practicing, encouragement and responsibility is important in a
child's music education. Without parental support, a child may loose interest in
practicing their instrument. Parents are encouraged to speak with teachers in order to
compliment the instructional and practicing goals established by the teacher.
Mission Statement
Music Notes Academy, in partnership with parents and guardians, is committed to the musical
growth and development of each student. Within a positive learning environment, and the
encouragement and support of dedicated teachers and parents, students will expand and
improve their musical appreciation, comprehension of musical knowledge and music
performance skills while being challenged to reach their fullest potential. In addition to
education, Music Notes Academy is dedicated to offering students and parents the best
musical instruments to study music with and will assist students and parents with musical
instrument purchasing decisions.
Music Notes Academy, in partnership with parents and guardians, is committed to the musical
growth and development of each student. Within a positive learning environment, and the
encouragement and support of dedicated teachers and parents, students will expand and
improve their musical appreciation, comprehension of musical knowledge and music
performance skills while being challenged to reach their fullest potential. In addition to
education, Music Notes Academy is dedicated to offering students and parents the best
musical instruments to study music with and will assist students and parents with musical
instrument purchasing decisions.
Brandon Kurzawa, has
been teaching music,
specializing in percussion,
piano and guitar, since
1999. Mr. Kurzawa has
successfully prepared
students for Jazz Band
auditions, NJ
Regions/All-State
Auditions, NJMEA
evaluations, student
recitals and performances,
and has instructed
percussion ensembles,
rock bands, university
master classes and
currently teaches college as
an adjunct professor of
music production.
been teaching music,
specializing in percussion,
piano and guitar, since
1999. Mr. Kurzawa has
successfully prepared
students for Jazz Band
auditions, NJ
Regions/All-State
Auditions, NJMEA
evaluations, student
recitals and performances,
and has instructed
percussion ensembles,
rock bands, university
master classes and
currently teaches college as
an adjunct professor of
music production.
Music Educators Association of New Jersey
Incorporated January 3, 1935
The Music Educators Association of New Jersey
Is A State-Wide, Non-Profit Organization Founded In 1927
Music Educators Association Piano Auditions
What is MEA?
MEA is a professional association of approximately 300 private piano teachers. MEA offers its
members, such as Music Notes Academy, numerous activities, informative lectures and
practical workshops that develop music teacher personal musical growth and the
improvement of our teaching skills. This growth and development benefits the musical learning
experience of our piano students.
What are the Piano Auditions?
The MEA Piano Auditions, called Piano Evaluations by Music Notes Academy, is one of several
musical avenues available to our students. The goal of the Auditions is to provide a positive
performing experience that encourages students to continue with their piano learning and
development. MEA offers graduated levels of performance from Introductory to Young Artist,
with goals and expectations consistent with each level. At each level, students perform
appropriate musical selections and are expected to have an understanding of certain technical
skills such as scales, chords, arpeggios, etc... At each level, an optional Theory Test is also
available to help the teachers evaluate their students' understanding of musical concepts and
ideas. An award seal is given if more than 50% of the answers are correct.
Music Notes Academy piano students are eligible for NJMEA's Piano Auditions, at the
recommendation of the student's instructor, after six months of regular study with Music
Notes Academy. For information about the Auditions, speak with Brandon Kurzawa.
Incorporated January 3, 1935
The Music Educators Association of New Jersey
Is A State-Wide, Non-Profit Organization Founded In 1927
Music Educators Association Piano Auditions
What is MEA?
MEA is a professional association of approximately 300 private piano teachers. MEA offers its
members, such as Music Notes Academy, numerous activities, informative lectures and
practical workshops that develop music teacher personal musical growth and the
improvement of our teaching skills. This growth and development benefits the musical learning
experience of our piano students.
What are the Piano Auditions?
The MEA Piano Auditions, called Piano Evaluations by Music Notes Academy, is one of several
musical avenues available to our students. The goal of the Auditions is to provide a positive
performing experience that encourages students to continue with their piano learning and
development. MEA offers graduated levels of performance from Introductory to Young Artist,
with goals and expectations consistent with each level. At each level, students perform
appropriate musical selections and are expected to have an understanding of certain technical
skills such as scales, chords, arpeggios, etc... At each level, an optional Theory Test is also
available to help the teachers evaluate their students' understanding of musical concepts and
ideas. An award seal is given if more than 50% of the answers are correct.
Music Notes Academy piano students are eligible for NJMEA's Piano Auditions, at the
recommendation of the student's instructor, after six months of regular study with Music
Notes Academy. For information about the Auditions, speak with Brandon Kurzawa.
About Music Notes Academy
Music Notes Academy is a community music school and New Jersey
in-home music instruction provider. Music lessons are available for
students of varying ages and ability levels and instructed in the
comfort and convenience of their home.
Music Notes Academy is a community music school and New Jersey
in-home music instruction provider. Music lessons are available for
students of varying ages and ability levels and instructed in the
comfort and convenience of their home.
Music Notes Academy Office: (908) 393.1418 Director's Mobile: (908) 938.0366
| Est. 2000 |
| About Us |
Founder, Owner & Executive Director
Brandon Kurzawa, B.M., M.Ed.
Brandon Kurzawa, B.M., M.Ed.
| "Established in 2000, Music Notes Academy was developed with the vision of providing comprehensive music instruction for students of varying ages on their instrument, primarily for percussionists and pianists, with the added convenience of the instructor traveling to the student's home. Since 2006, MNA has grown and expanded significantly and now offers student recitals and bands at adjunct locations, instructional materials, J. Strauss & Son pianos and select musical instruments at great discounts for students and parents enrolled with Music Notes Academy." |
| 2009 Memberships Percussive Arts Society (PAS) NJ Music Educators Association (NJMEA) The National Association for Music Education (MENC) The College Music Society (CMS) Music Tecahers National Association (MTNA) |
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Music instruction in the home presents many advantages for students as they can study music
on their personal instrument (especially for piano and percussion students) under the
guidance of a specialized music instructor. A short-term goal for Music Notes Academy is to
establish physical locations in central and northern NJ where private music instruction, group
classes, ensembles, clinics, master classes and recitals may commence in addition to in-home
instruction.
on their personal instrument (especially for piano and percussion students) under the
guidance of a specialized music instructor. A short-term goal for Music Notes Academy is to
establish physical locations in central and northern NJ where private music instruction, group
classes, ensembles, clinics, master classes and recitals may commence in addition to in-home
instruction.
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Brandon Kurzawa performing live at the 2006 Sourlands Music Festival
Photo By Paul Kurzawa
