Guitar Lessons in Massapequa Park, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

A lesson with me equals half of the allotted time being used to learn good technique (i.e., learning healthy vocal habits, singing vocalises, learning to read music, playing scales, etc.) and the other half of the time singing and playing repertoire. The repertoire includes both pieces chosen by Kathy (always approved by the student) which excite and inspire the students particular musical tastes while providing a new challenge in technique to be conquered, and also pieces brought in by the student; for example, if a student is working on music for a specific performance, etc., or if they just really like a piece and want to learn how to play or sing it, I am always ready and willing to lend a hand and an ear! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola

I don't have a singular method because every student is different. At the beginning of my lessons with a new student we will begin getting to know each other. Then we try different things. Some students are naturals at imitating what they hear, so we play to those strengths. Other students are more comfortable with structure and math, so we take that route instead. What I find most important is being flexible. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I'm a teacher, music therapist and performer. I have been playing guitar for over 30 years and teaching for more than 20. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from SUNY New Paltz and upon graduating I taught lessons and did various gigs for a little over 10 years. I then attended Montclair State University where I studied music therapy. I love working with students of all ages, whether it be in music therapy sessions or guitar lessons. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Phase 6: Fingerpicking and Tapping Here we will explore the technique of fingerpicking. The student will use all the fingers on their right hand to the fullest extent and be able to play lovely music of many genres. We will also explore Finger Tapping, a style which uses both hands on the fretboard. This will help with electrifying solos as well as interesting acoustic solo pieces. Phase 7: Advanced Soloing and Improvisation At this point we have a masterful guitar player and are getting them ready for their big debut at Madison Square Garden :) In this phase we will expand the riffs we have learned into full length solos. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

All students come with different strengths and weaknesses so I decided what needs to be done after hearing them. Basic technique is very important to consistently sing in any style. A singer must have stable, and consistent breathing as well as proper vocal balance. I have a substantial number of excursuses to begin training these aspects with a singer at any level. I structure the first part of a lesson as technical work and the second half as repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Over the last 20+ years of teaching I have developed an approach of customizing lessons to suit every student. Since students tend to have widely varying degrees of experience as well as goals I have found that this is the best approach. I will always sit down with each student and together we can figure out what it is that they would like to do, and what is the most straight forward way is to get there. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I start out with fundamental theory, scales, and chords, along with easy songs and riffs. I teach student differently depending on their skill and ability level. I utilize textbooks and DVDs to accompany the lessons. My approach is straight forward, which enables the students to learn quickly.I think the visual aspect of the guitar is very important, so I focus a lot on theory applied directly to the guitar. Read More