Guitar Lessons in Manhattan, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trombone

I am a strong advocate in fusing together practice and performance. I personally have had teachers that focused too much on technical studies and theory, and not enough time on incorporating those skills into performance; which is the main reason why many people have a desire to learn a musical instrument. In my lessons, I focus on developing skills that are essential to my student's overall musical development. These skills include music theory, ear training, rhythmic analysis, technique, and finally, applying all those skills into a performing setting. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Finding what musical style or technique inspires my student is the highest priority. I ask this question when I first meet my students, and I continue to maintain a sense of what the student is inspired by through seeing what sparks passion in my student as my custom-tailored curriculum unfolds for them. I find it greatly rewarding when I can inspire my student to learn about a new style they never thought they would like or appreciate. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For younger students and all of my students who want to learn how to read music I start with the Mel Bay Guitar Method Vol. 1. As we progress through that I usually start giving out more reading that is complimentary to the direction that the student is going in. However, I know there are several guitar students who don't necessarily want to learn how to read music which I am fine with teaching. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele

For every student, I initally assess why they are taking lessons and what their goals are. Together we create a plan to acheive those goals.  For young beginners, I like the FJH guitar series. It was written by guitar educators. I also teach the student to play fun songs and tunes to supplmement the books.  For teens and adults, the path depends on their goals, which aren't always in a book. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For older or more advanced students, I find the Guild Series to be quite effective and interesting. With these students, following their interest, we continue with sight singing, composition and improvisation. With adults, we work on what they're interested in (classical, rock, blues, gospel), but with a firm grounding in fundamentals: scales, cadences, etc. For all my students if they don't respond to one set of materials, we switch to another until we can find a good match. Read More