Guitar Lessons in Oakdale, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Flute Clarinet Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students, I prefer to start them on a book based in warming up and getting used to movement in hands if we are playing piano. Throughout my teaching, I incorporate music theory and ear training into my classes as it creates a fantastic bridge to understanding the instrument. As we get used to our new instrument, I will recommend some songs to get started on and allow my students to come to class with ideas and songs that they want to learn how to play or sing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

In-demand NY session musician, teacher, and musical director Pete O has studied with many of the world’s top bass players. In addition to his independent studies at Berklee Music school, Pete has had the pleasure of studying with industry legends such as Victor Wooten, Chuck Rainey, Anthony Wellington, Adam Nitti, and Matt Garrison. Pete’s highlights include opening the Gathering of the Vibes festival in upstate New York, featuring James Brown, Michael Franti and Spearhead, Gov’t Mule, and the Allman Brothers. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a firm believer in not re-inventing the wheel. I don't use my own lesson plans. I meet with students to see what they know and what they want to learn, and then use books, YouTube videos or tutorials to teach - learn with- students. A typical curriculum for me first learning the chromatic scale, then the major two octave scale. Then the minor two octave scale, then basic major and minor chords. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

I've been teaching piano and guitar lessons for the past five years to students of all ages and musical backgrounds. I have studied various teaching methods and am dedicated to using methods that promotes proper technique, musicianship, and enjoyment. I am passionate about sharing my musical knowledge with others and believe that the most important aspect of teaching music is creating an environment that is encouraging, fun, and individualized for each student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Over the years, I've taken lessons from instructors who had an array of teaching styles. While in high school, I was taught through intimidation and was scared into learning, which is something I was able to handle. This methods can actually turn students away from music which is the main reason dislike approach. Students should be comfortable and relaxed when entering a lesson. This not only creates a positive learning environment for the student but helps create a relationship between instructor and student that only helps the growth of both individuals. 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: 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