Skip to main content

About the studio

Music and Method was founded by Edmund Yu on Staten Island, New York, in 2002. Edmund’s passion to see people connect with music developed into a clear and understandable learning system that makes music fun and engaging. He sparked an interest in people to try music for themselves and saw them learn to play instruments for the first time. Motivated by their successes, Edmund’s concept of Music and Method was born.

Edmund created a piano program for Music and Method that explores five areas of study: technique, music theory, sight reading, repertoire and performance. In addition to music education, students learn to express creativity, while developing organization and confidence in life. In 2009, Music and Method expanded to include teaching the piano, guitar, violin and voice.

Today, Music and Method offers Staten Island the very best in music education and most importantly, inspires people to connect with music. Not only do students from all across the Island achieve their music goals, Music and Method reaches out to our community by sharing performances with them several times a year.

ABOUT THE TEACHER

Edmund Yu

Lead teacher

Edmund Yu is a dynamic musician who teaches the piano, guitar, violin and voice on Staten Island. He began his career in music education in 2002 when he founded Music and Method. With more than 20 years of professional teaching experience, Edmund is a qualified and patient instructor who loves to share his knowledge of music with students.

Music has always played a major role in Edmund’s life. He began to learn the piano at age 5, the violin at age 11, and the guitar at age 16. Over the last 35 years, Edmund has had many performances and has worked with numerous children’s singing groups, adult choirs and instrumentalists who have collectively shaped his keen insight on how to develop a musician.

Since 2000, Edmund has been an active member of the music ministry at Staten Island Chinese Christian Church as a worship leader, pianist, guitarist and singer. He has extensive knowledge of hymns and contemporary Christian music, and leads a team of musicians during worship services.

Edmund attended high school at Staten Island Academy and then went on to graduate from Tufts University in 2000. When he isn’t working with music, Edmund loves to stay active playing soccer and enjoys life with his wife and family, which includes their Chinese Shar Pei named Xiao Xiao.

ABOUT THE TEACHER

Pinky Chan

Teacher

Music has always been part of Pinky Chan’s life since she was a toddler. Her love for music is motivated by how it is a true universal language that is widely shared in a world commonly marked with divide. As an alumna of Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts, she has gone through rigorous classical training as an instrumental major, with focus in piano and gained orchestral experience in violin and viola. She is honored to connect and expand the accessibility to music with students of Music and Method.

ABOUT THE TEACHER

Jim Kost

Teacher

Jim Kost is a dynamic and charismatic musician who teaches the piano, keyboards and improvisation virtually world wide. He began his career in music education in 1990 when he began coaching established and up and coming artists in preparation for tours and recording. He moved into teaching beginners in 2019, rapidly expanding his student base.

With more than 30 years of professional teaching experience, Jim is a thorough and patient instructor who loves to share his knowledge of music with students.

Music has always played a major role in Jim’s life. He began to learn the piano at age 11, playing with local bands in Pennsylvania as well as giving Classical Recitals.

With a degree in Jazz and Classical Piano Performance from Rutgers University, Jim has had over 30 years of national and international touring under his belt with artists such as Steve Kimock (Bob Weir, Bruce Hornsby), Rodney Holmes (Zawinul Syndicate, Santana) and  Kaleta (Fela Kuti, King Sunny Ade),  who have collectively shaped his keen insight on how to develop a musician.

He also released his first album as a co-leader  “Stone Church” (Ropeadope Records) with legendary drummer G Calvin Weston (Ornette Coleman, John Zorn) in 2021.

Through his 30 year career as a studio musician, Jim has worked in almost every genre and with artists too numerous to mention who have helped to hone his stylistic diversity and ability to “think on his feet” in any musical environment.

“This review is long overdue. I went to Mr. Yu to learn to play the piano—I am still a beginner but not completely new to the instrument, since I took lessons as a child. He is a patient, methodical teacher who clearly loves teaching others to play as much as he loves playing himself. He was able to assess my level quickly and provide methodical instruction that allowed me to progress rapidly. He wants to be sure you understand what you’re doing; he really cares about your learning. Even when I came without practicing, he was unbelievably patient and kind. In addition, he charges affordable prices. I am moving away and wish I could still take lessons from him.”

Swapna R.

“First time piano player, this teacher really knew how to sit down with a beginner and make them feel comfortable when learning a new instrument, in this case a piano. He has a fairly nice studio to practice the guitar, violin and the piano.

If you’re on Staten Island or Brooklyn, I would highly advise this teacher.”

Vanessa S.

“Edmund was a very helpful vocal teacher for my daughter and had so much patience It was such a blessing and joy to be coached by someone who loved his job, was very attentive, and more importantly, provided constructive criticism that enabled my child to continue to progress forward..

Edmund's rates are affordable but the experience and the learning that my child gained was well worth it.”

Arvin A.

“Edmund is great and patient. I have 3 daughters who started taking lessons with him in 2012, they were 5, 7 and 9 at the time they started their lessons. My daughters advanced differently due to their age difference and Edmund patiently worked with each one of them based on her ability and dedication to her practice.

My oldest daughter then started taking violin lesson with Edmund when she joined orchestra in 7th grade. I love that she was able to take piano and violin lesson from the same teacher, he teaches her how the 2 instruments compliment each other.

My husband and I also took guitar lessons with Edmund for a year as well. Now my husband and my oldest daughter both play guitar in our church's fellowship.

You can't find another teacher more versatile than Edmund.”

Ada T.

“Edmund is a very patient professional teacher who can go with the student's pace but yet give enough of push to encourage student to strive for the ultimate growth.”

Ann T.

“My daughter was hesitant to take piano lessons and finding Edmund was just what she needed. He is patient and encouraging. She felt at ease and enjoyed the lessons very much. I would highly recommend Music and Method.”

Elise L.

“Edmund is excellent! My son started close to his 4th birthday and is doing great. Edmund is perfect for him, guiding him and teaching him in a temped, gentle manner. Perfect for a toddler! Or any age for that matter. Always encouraging and praising his efforts while providing clear and precise instruction. I couldn't be happier with Edmund and Music and Method. I recommend to anyone who will listen or is considering piano!”

Catherine M.

“Both my daughters took piano lessons with Edmund for many years. They didn’t want to stop. To see their progress since that first day, when I sat on that couch listening to them for the first time, was just remarkable. He has so much patience and grace, like he's born to do this. I didn’t need to sit there for too long to be convinced that I was in safe hands. The best part was seeing the "fruits" of all that hard work at the many recitals. Now that they are in high school, I can honestly say that that this experience played a major part in how well balanced they turned out to be. Thanks Edmund!”

Barry U.

“Edmund is a fantastic teacher!! I would recommend him to anyone who is interested in taking piano (or voice/guitar/violin) lessons.

…The best part about having Edmund as your music teacher is that he works with you. As I said before, I hated playing Mozart when I was younger for some reason or another. Many other piano teachers would force you to do that anyway because Mozart's pieces are so iconic, but Edmund gave me different options and allowed me to play other composers' works, which made me so much happier and excited to play the piano. He always keeps in mind what the student wants and needs, and this is something that is so important when choosing a music instructor.

… I highly recommend Music and Method. Edmund is an amazing and patient professional music instructor who works well with his students. He played such a huge role in my life while growing up and helped me find my love for playing the piano. Thanks, Edmund!!!”

Crystal L.

“Edmund has been a wonderful vocal coach. He exudes patience and great knowledge in the musical language. Edmund is passionate about his job and honestly cares to see his students improve. Because of my lessons, I was able to sing along to sheet music with his help. I have also become more aware of my breathing, pronunciation, and volume when I sing. Music and Method definitely helped me and I highly recommend it!”

Anisha D.

“Edmund was recommended to us by a parent of another student and we were lucky to find him! My daughter, then around age 12, studies both piano and voice with Edmund, and he helped prepare her for auditions. I saw progress and there was never a time that she didn't want to go for her lessons. During her time with him, I sat in on several lessons and saw the method and value of his teachings, so first hand I can give Edmund 5 stars! At times I even wished that I was also taking lessons.

…My daughter now is at University in a BFA Musical Theatre program. Thank you Mr. Edmund!”

Dee K.

“My daughter started to make noticeable progresses within the first few lessons with Edmund. His teaching method not only tailors to individual student's need but also stretches their potential to encourage them to do their best.

…I also took lessons with Edmund a few years ago. It brought me a lot of joy when Edmund taught me to play some of my favorites pieces.

… Edmund is very encouraging, patient and friendly.”

Jessica W.

“My son (7 years old) and daughter (5 years old) have been taking piano lessons with Mr. Edmund for over 1 year. He is patient, flexible, persistent and very skillful at teaching. It has been a blessing knowing him and we plan on continuing with him. Also planning to expand the kids training to guitar and violin, which he is also expertise.
I highly recommend him for anyone that needs a private teacher.”

Seun O.

“My son has been taking piano lessons for over 3 years and he loves it. Mr. Yu is a very patient and encouraging teacher. Scheduling lessons is easy and flexible when need be.”

Robin S.

“I have taken lessons from Music and Method almost 6 years ago. It was my first music lessons and I should say the teacher Edmund is a wonderful person, passionate about music. He was able to listen and understand my skill set and adjust lessons accordingly. I was able to perform in a concert shortly after I started lessons with Edmund with confidence!”

Ruha S.

“I took lessons with Edmund Yu (Music and Method) some years ago, and I wish I had been able to continue. I couldn't because of my work schedule. He was a very good teacher; patient and kind, yet very professional with high standards.
Edmund is especially good for young students who will give recitals. He grooms students for performance and is very encouraging. I was able to see the results when I attended the school recitals, in which his students of all ages performed. They played beautifully!”

Stephanie C.

“Edmund is an excellent music teacher, he teaches how to read the notes not just to play.
I recommend him to anyone wants to play music.”

Samy M.

“Edmund is a great teacher!! My 4 years old has been taking piano lesson with him for the past three months and really enjoys it. Edmund is very patient, encouraging and knowledgeable. He knows how to work with little kids. I would definitely recommend him to anyone interested in learning an instrument.”

Giuliana A.

“Ed is a great music teacher. He helped me with my voice/singing. I definitely improved over the eight months I worked with Ed. I had no prior experience and Ed helped me sing in eight months to the point that people said I was good. He is very experienced musician and easily picks up any song on the piano for you to practice with. Plays guitar very good too. Very professional, reliable. When I needed to switch my days, he was always accommodating. I would highly recommend him.”

Vlad K.

“I take piano lessons with Edmund. He is a great teacher. He is very thorough and is really knowledgeable. I highly recommend him if your interested in taking music lessons.”

Johnna P.

“I’m 59 and have been taking piano lessons for the past 3 years with a few different instructors. I have only been taking lessons with Edmund for about two months, but have learned more in two months than the past three years. I love his method for teaching and breaking down all the components into simple repeatable tasks that when put all together allow the student to play any piece of music from beginning to end. Truly a great teacher! I highly recommend him to anyone that wants to learn!”

William H.

“My son has been learning piano for almost 6 years now. We used to change teachers a lot because of their availability and we are so glad we finally met Mr Edmund last year. I have to say Mr Edmund is the best among our experience in the past few years.
He is very patient with kids, knows the proper way to teach them. Just not sure what his magic is, but he's the only one get my son practice without complaining every night.
Highly recommend Mr Edmund if anyone is interested in taking lessons in piano, guitar, vocal....”

Jackie L.

“I wanted to start my 4 year old daughter in piano. While searching on the internet for local teachers I found music and method. What a great experience it was , the teacher Edmund is so kind and patient with my daughter , we absolutely love him. His love for music shows through his teachings. Very clean and quiet studio with plenty of parking in front! Highly recommended”

Joelle M.

“My daughter has always had a gifted voice but did not have the know-how or the confidence to use it.
Thanks to Edmund, an extremely talented, dedicated and patient teacher, He is teaching her to use her voice as an instrument.
Remarkable strides in projection, sustain and pitch in such a short time. Edmund has brought out great confidence in my daughter, in her voice and knowledge of her talents. The best traits you look for in a teacher.
I highly recommend Edmund's Music and Method program and see the results for your self.”

Steve L.

“My kids both take lessons here. Edmund is one of the most patient teachers I've met. If you are looking for somewhere to learn piano, guitar, violin or singing, this is where you want to go first before trying anywhere else.”

Lisa L.

“We are very pleased to have Edmund as our daughter's piano teacher. He is very patient and he attends to her needs. My daughter wanted to learn piano to enjoy playing it and to see that she can play music. Edmund allows her to strive according to her ability. He listens and take his time to explain and help Abigail understand music, and he helps her in mastering piano. We are happy that he can help nurture and help Abigail pursue her joy in music especially for piano.”

Amy C.

“My son has been playing piano with Edmund for about six months. He is a very patient and dedicated teacher. Edmund is very professional and he motivates my son every week to do better! I highly recommend him!”

Alessandra S.