Teacher Feature: Kelli Bruno
Vocal & piano Instructor
Tell us a little more about your background! Where are you from?
I'm originally from Cranford, NJ! I got my BA degrees in Music & Film from Bucknell University in 2013, after which I moved to NYC. I started performing in New York as a solo musician in 2016 while working full-time for the national non profit Musicians On Call (MOC). A few months ago I decided to leave MOC after 9 incredible years so I could pursue performing and teaching more seriously! I now live in South River with my wife Amie and dog Koda :)
What do you like to do when you're not teaching or playing music?
I'm a HUGE New York Rangers fan, so you can catch me watching hockey. I also love reading, rollerblading, hiking, and traveling!
What are you working on right now?
I'm working on two singles that I hope to release in 2024.
Where/how can we follow you and your music?
My website is kellibruno.com and all my social media handles are @kellibrunomusic (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc)
Who/what are your top 3 favorite artists/bands right now?
Carbon Leaf, Larkin Poe, JP Cooper
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone just starting to learn music?
Don't be afraid to stray from convention. Every artist has a unique voice and instinct to create... follow that instinct!
Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs coming up?
I play original shows a few times a year at Crossroads in Garwood. I play cover shows pretty frequently (Wednesday nights) at Onieals in Hoboken!
What's your favorite genre, type of music, or technique to teach?
I love teaching music theory! Whether it's sight-reading, chord progressions, Solfege, or harmony, I love connecting the dots for young musicians and giving them the building blocks to understand why and how music is SO AWESOME!
If you could bring one famous musician back to life for a jam session, who would it be, and what song would you play together?
Ooooo that's tough! Either Ella Fitzgerald (I've Got You Under My Skin) OR Sam Cooke (A Change is Gonna Come)
Share a memorable teaching moment where you witnessed a student's breakthrough or transformation.
A few years ago I had a 5 year old piano student who couldn't play the Itsy Bitsy Spider. One week later she shows up to class and plays it PERFECTLY - and from memory! I was so impressed and I will always remember that moment because she seemed so proud.
Share a memorable life experience or adventure that has shaped who you are.
Through my former staff and volunteer role at Musicians On Call I spent a lot of time performing at the bedsides of hospital patients. I know how incredibly transformative music can be in happy situations, along with challenging situations. I've learned that there is always a way to connect with someone... if it's not through speech, it could be through music. If it's not through music, it could be through Disney movies. If not through Disney, it could be as simple as a smile :)