Guitar Lessons in Great Notch, NJ

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I was taught primarily in the William Leavitt method, and use these resources to introduce students to the basics of sight-reading, theory, and technique. My personal preference is not to adhere too strictly to any one method however, instead focusing on the application of theory within a more active musical context. Improvisation is extremely important to developing a working understanding of music in my opinion, and much of my lessons are based in actively performing progressions with students, focusing on both comping and soloing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar

I typically like to start lessons with a warm up, and this is a good opportunity to see what level a student's technique is at. I immediately address anything that I see to be problematic in the student's technique, and we start working on ways to improve it as soon as possible. These can be simple exercises and when I see that my students are improving in these exercises and that their technique has gotten better, I always make sure that they also notice the difference and give them a sense of accomplishment. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice

I have been teaching guitar and voice for the last five years to students of all ages and various levels. With the development of my music learning program, Musicphilia: Love for Music, my purpose is to engage students in fostering a positive experience in learning their instrument of choice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For children I like to encourage enjoyment with the guitar so I make sure that there is a growth in technique and a growth of passion and excitement. For adults I really like to know what the student is interested in and I propose songs/techniques relating to or around the subject matter. My number one goal is to make sure that you can be able to express yourself musically! : ) Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Double Bass Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I tend to start my lessons with discussing what has brought the student to their instrument, and what music they love. After learning about their hopes and goals, I start teaching from a technical perspective to help them get a handle on their instruments. From there I discuss practice techniques, music and guides to listen to, and start teaching them songs and repertoire they are passionate about. I love incorporating listening, writing, and seeing live music into a student's learning experience. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder

I use what some have called the target approach. With this method you are working on one concept at a time, and you should always have one concept in mind while you practice. Some examples of beginning concepts are 1) keeping a steady beat, 2) sound quality, or 3) smooth finger technique. In one practice session using the target approach you may spend 10 minutes on target 1) and 15 minutes on target 2). What is important, however, is that you continue to work on a target every day until you find yourself performing that single concept flawlessly and effortlessly. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I am an intuitive teacher: I have learned how to observe my students, their moods, their energy levels, and adjust my lesson plan on the fly. For instance, one student has ADHD, which I manage by injecting exciting new rhythms for him to mimic when I see his attention wander. I then harness that renewed focus towards the original goal of the lesson, whether it’s learning a new time signature or a complex cross-rhythm. Read More