REFERENCES

Jim has been working with my son for almost five years now, and whether they meet online or in person, he has always been able to connect well with Sebastian each time they meet! Jim has an incredible repertoire of music in his head so he can take the lessons in any direction based on what Sebastian needs or wants to work on. He's also incredibly patient, recognizing how to keep my son's attention and redirect him when it's necessary, while always maintaining a sense of humor and flexibility. Having attended many recitals at this point after a few years, I'm also so impressed with how Jim makes everyone feel incredibly proud of their progress, no matter how long they have been playing and/or how complicated their work may be. We would highly recommend Jim for any level of piano player, from those who are first starting out to anyone who is looking for an extra level of challenge and development.

— Bari Rabine, Fairfield, CT

I’ve studied with Jim for the past five years and he has furthered my piano repertoire, technique, musical theory, and overall skill in a way that no other teacher could do. Jim is a remarkable teacher, pianist, comedian, and everything in between. He brings a certain kind of charisma and energy to every lesson and never misses a beat. He’s also a fantastic pianist, and has a style unmatched and tailored to the student. He’s always prepared and has such a large repertoire that no student could think to themselves after a lesson “I have nothing to work on!” He knows how to create a curriculum unique and perfect for the student, with pieces both fun and enjoyable to rigorous and technically challenging.

— Laszlo Balazs, Norwalk, CT

Jim has taught my son piano for the past seven years. We started in person and then transitioned to online through COVID and now hybrid. Jim is an amazingly flexible, inspirational teacher. He has my son playing classical music through rock music. My son is now a college senior who continues to study piano online with Jim. I attribute his continued interest in music to Jim’s mentorship.

— Patricia Mennitt, Westport, CT

We had the privilege of working with Jim for six years. His teaching style and witty, personable demeanor create an optimal environment for not only learning, but enjoying piano lessons. My son's skills--both technical and aesthetic-- greatly improved through Jim's careful guidance.

— Beth Colonna, Rowayton, CT

Jim has taught all three of my kids to be wonderful pianists. He’s got two aces up his sleeve.

The first is piece selection. The man knows, and has access to, thousands of pieces. He’s figured out that if a kid loves her piano assignment, she’ll rush home from school to play it for fun—and that’s critical to turning what could be drudgework into a lifelong love of music.

The second is friendship. Jim knows each kid, jokes with them, works with them, shows them YouTube videos of great or hilarious piano performances, and gently ushers them toward ever improving musicianship. Hire him.

— David Pogue, Westport, CT

Jim Jacoby is without doubt a creative and sensitive teacher. He brings his personal experience as a musician to his craft. Jim has extensive experience in the business consultant field as a writer and idea provider.This past experience enhances his connection to the student. His overview as a teacher is holistic, embracing both worlds of business and musician.

— Edgar Grana, Brooklyn, NY