Music Teachers

Brandon Kurzawa is a dedicated music professional with over 25 years of experience in music education. In 2000, he founded Music Notes Academy, reflecting his commitment to providing high-quality music education that empowers students to become self-sufficient musicians while appreciating the beauty of musical arts. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Rutgers University and a Master of Arts in Education with a focus on curriculum and instruction. Additionally, he studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, learning from world-renowned percussionists such as Larry Finn and Kenwood Denard.

As a percussionist, Brandon has contributed to several recordings, including Ansel Matthews’ “Raised From The Dust” and John Sonntag’s “Chasing Stars.” He was an active performer from 1998 to 2009, captivating audiences with energetic performances in diverse ensembles ranging from rock bands to theater productions in the vibrant New York metropolitan area.

Brandon’s influence on music education extends beyond his role as the Director of Education at Music Notes Academy. He has authored insightful articles, including “Teaching Music, Teaching Percussion: A Balance in Curriculum” and “Teaching Music: Music Majors, Choose Education,” which were published in Tempo Magazine in 2006 and 2007. In 2015, he published the “Learn Today, Play Tomorrow® Student Assignment Book” through Backbeat Music Publishing. This innovative resource has enriched the learning experience for Music Notes Academy students, teachers, and parents by offering effective organizational methods and clear learning objectives. The second edition was launched during the 2018-2019 school year.

Brandon’s deep commitment to enhancing music education in New Jersey led him to become the Festival Director and Producer of the Mid-Atlantic Music Teachers Guild’s MAMTG Student Music Festival in 2015. He successfully produced festivals from 2016 to 2020, creating opportunities for student soloists and ensembles through competitions, evaluations, and showcases that celebrated the spirit of music performance alongside their respective music schools and teachers.

As Festival Director, Brandon managed various production responsibilities, including securing venues, building relationships with music schools, recruiting and vetting qualified adjudicators, welcoming sponsors, seeking vendors, and ensuring a seamless festival experience for all attendees. His meticulous planning and oversight covered all aspects of large-scale events, extending from year-long pre-production to the culminating awards show, enhancing the overall three-day experience for participants.

As an educational endorser of Vic Firth, Inc., and a sponsored artist of Shine Custom Drums, Brandon has also served as an inspiring adjunct professor, focusing on percussion, music theory, audio engineering, and music technology. He has taught courses in Apple’s GarageBand, Logic Studio, and Reason at Gibbs College and has held additional teaching positions at Rutgers University and Kean University.

Throughout his 25 years at Music Notes Academy, Brandon has consistently provided exceptional music instruction to students of all ages while fostering a vibrant community of music educators. His unwavering dedication was recognized when he received the Success Award from the New Jersey Small Business Development Center (NJSBDC) on behalf of the Academy’s devoted teaching staff, students, and their supportive families.