I studied under the auspices of Dr. Irrera from Fall of 2008 as a serious competition-level high school pianist for four years until I graduated in May 2012. And then intermittenly as an advanced amateur seeking his guidance to beef up my musicality and technical prowess from Fall of 2012 until Winter of 2016. Dr. Irrera is an absolutely fantastic piano teacher, his greatest asset is that he really teaches you how to dissect and analyze all the agogic, technical, musical, and occasionally theoretical nuances that go into understanding just how a piece should sound after several months of study. Even though I no longer study with him(I'm on the East coast) I still incorporate Dr. Irrera's advice into my learning of literally any piece; no matter what level of difficulty it is I still occasionally ask myself: "How would Joe tell me to practice this?" or "How would Joe advise me to interpret this?" These are lifelong musical skills essential to any budding pianist, no matter what age or skill level. He holds two degrees from the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY and one from the Peabody Conservatory of John's Hopkins, at both of these schools he studied with two internationally renowned pedagogues, both of whom were past major prize winners of the prestigious Van Cliburn Competition in Fort Worth, TX. His education credentials alone speaks volumes to the sheer level of musical and theoretical acumen he has attained, not only that but he's also a great human being too.(Good sense of humor too) Long story short: Dr. Joseph Irrera is a top notch music educator, highly recommended. read more

Joe Irrera is an absolutely amazing piano teacher. He explains everything clearly and concisely, and gives instruction both with his words and by demonstrating on the piano. The lessons take place at his house, where he has a grand 'Steinway & Sons' piano and an upright piano, and he keeps both clean and in tune. He is also just a nice, friendly person, and never loses his temper or raises his voice - not even with my little brother. He gives many opportunities to perform on a stage, but there is no pressure at all from him. He even enrolls his students, with their approval, in competitions, giving them the freedom to perform with the chance of a prize. The technique that he explains to his students is terrific, and he inspires them to try their hardest to succeed. The faith and confidence he places in each of his students is phenomenal, and every lesson is priceless. He is truly a master of his profession, never missing a beat. read more

Joseph is great piano instructor no matter what your level is. My daughter started her first piano with Joseph and she is playing a music piece after six months. He has his own teaching skills and technics, he is very patient with kids in young age and knows how to lead them. Joseph is a great pianist and a professional that we were very lucky to have him as a instructor. He has very warm heart and passion over piano and towards his student. There are many teacher who can teach piano but there not many good instructor like him who is really good at teaching , letting one soul to love the music and passionate about what is playing a piano and being professional at the same time. read more

Before I met Joe, I had been learning under a local teacher that taught beginners. When my parents decided to find a more advanced teacher and we found Joe, he clearly brought an advantage to every area of our lessons. He not only challenged me with pieces that seemed too difficult, but helped me understand how playing the piano goes beyond the technical aspects. Joe taught me throughout high school, and I attribute not only my musical ability to his lessons, but also a variety of personal improvements as well. Be a part of his studio! Even as an adult, if I could take lessons from Joe I would! -Terry S read more

Joe taught my son piano for a year (before he moved out of area) and we were thrilled to see the progress my son was making - he actually won an area competition as a result of his teaching! We had gone through a few piano teachers but Joe is the only on that had so much belief in him that ultimately motivated him want to be a good piano player himself. Joe's extensive music training background equipped him well to be a great piano teacher, but most importantly, his ability to pass his passion for music to my son is what we valued the most. Thank you Joe!! read more

Joseph taught me quite a few years ago for several years before I moved out of Rochester for college. I am very happy to say that in addition to being a great performer himself, he is also an amazing teacher. In-fact, it was thanks to him that I was able to get into SUNY Fredonia as a piano performance major! Lessons with him were definitely top-notch, and my parents and I were very happy with the opportunities that he opened for me thanks to the progress that I made during my studies with him. read more

My daughter has been studying with Joe for over a year. His well-rounded approach to teaching involves training his students in theory, technique, performance and musicality. Joe is great with kids and with evaluating whether they have grasped the concept he is teaching. He patiently asks the right questions to draw out their understanding. His experience as an accomplished musician brings so much richness to a musical education! Highly recommend. read more

Mr. Joe, as my daughter calls him, started giving her piano lessons at the age of five. We could not have had a more patient and talented music teacher. I was so impressed by his teaching method that I also became a student! Not only he attended the prestigious Eastman School of Music, he is also a Steinway Artist, a recognition given to only a few pianist worldwide. New York is certainly missing one of its finest. We know we are. read more

He is amazing! My kids love him. So sorry He left Rochester. He was the best teacher they ever had. He is kind, patient, a fantastic piano player and an amazing teacher. When you go to the piano recital your realize he is able to teach all levels and everyone improves. You also see how much the kids love him. My kids miss joe so if he has time for you grab him ! You will not be disappointed. read more

Mr. Irrera is by far the best piano teacher I've ever had, and I've had many. During my time practicing with him, I had the most growth in playing, and I actually completely enjoyed practicing. He's very caring, loves piano and music, and is clearly very educated in the subject. I strongly recommend learning from him so you can experience it first-hand. read more

Joseph is great musician and person. I really enjoyed working with on my piano skills. He is very supportive. My piano fingers technique and sight reading improved a lot after I spent about 1 year and half with him. Also, he does a performance date for his students so they can learn how to perform live. read more

This idiot made a transphobic post on Facebook about Halloween coming early this year. I would give NEGATIVE numbers if it were possible for him not only making such a hateful post but also being stupid enough to do so while his bus affiliation is in plain view!!!!! read more