Piano Teachers

Karolina began studying piano at the age of seven under the tutelage of Dr. Ana Maria Trenchi Bottazzi. She received her Bachelor of Music in Classical Piano Performance from William Paterson University. Studying with Gary Kirkpatrick, Karolina graduated with Magna Cum Laude Honors. She was a founding member and participant of the William Paterson University Piano Ensemble for two years. Karolina’s notable performances include an appearance with the Leschetizky Piano Society and two solo recitals at the Kosciuszko Foundation. Karolina taught piano lessons at the Music Den in Kinnelon, NJ for students varying in age and ability.

Michael has been at the helm of String Sound Studios since 1986. Mainly a guitarist, he is also well-schooled in bass guitar, piano, and some woodwinds. He is considered by his peers to be a talented multi-instrumentalist with skills on 5-string banjo, ukulele, and mandolin. While at Five Towns College, Michael studied with master musicians Peter Rogine, John Dewitt, and Donna Olson. Michael insists on being eclectic and shares a deep understanding of jazz, rock, blues, and classical music with all his students. Michael has a world view of music which includes Latin, eastern, and western elements that show up in his arranging.

Over the years, many of his students have been accepted into music colleges and are actively involved in the music industry today. Michael is also an ace transcriber, arranger, and extremely knowledgeable in using music software such as Sibelius to arrange and compose music for the ensembles at our Setauket studio. For over 30 years he has been guiding students in NYSSMA, All-State, recitals and college auditions. Michael’s influences range from Bach to Larry Carlton, and he has played with numerous bands as a freelancer over the years. He is in the midst of a finger-style solo guitar project and involved in private and ensemble music instruction.

Along with possessing a strong musical prowess, Michael and his family are very involved with ice skating and ice hockey.