Guitar Lessons in Red Hook, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Orchestral Percussion

I focus on nurturing a students natural curiosity, while helping them find the tools to pursue their own musical interests. Many of my younger students prefer to use technology to connect with music (learning how songs are recorded, and the theory behind songwriting), but I also work with more serious students to prepare for college auditions, state/regional jazz band, etc. My methods differ depending on a student's own goals, but they generally all will start with a technical exercise, an exercise designed to get the student thinking critically, and an application of the concepts we're learning. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Conga Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is all about the growth of the student and doing what I can to spur their progress. Being new to private instruction, I am eager to discover what teaching methods work most effectively for each student I interact with, and even strengthen my own guitar skills in the process. In teaching, I aim to help make music feel like fun as opposed to a chore or obligation and pass on what I have found most effective and helpful in my journey thus far. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Through initial funding from NIKE, I and my wife Karen produced personalized pace exercise music for runners and walkers. This commissioned work led to his developing walking and running tapes endorsed by PREVENTION Magazine and recommended in hundreds of national and international publications such as the WASHINGTON POST. My first solo record album is entitled Freedom Flight, on Lamb Lion Records which features production services from Larry Norman, Paul Stookey, Tom Howard, and Wendell Burton (actor lead in Sterile Cookoo with Liza Minnelli). Read More

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

When I approach teaching drums, I start by assessing the student's current level of knowledge and ability. This helps me understand what they are comfortable with and where they need more guidance. I also ask about their goals and what they hope to achieve through their drumming journey. This allows me to tailor my lessons to their specific needs and interests. Next, I break down the basic elements of drumming, such as proper grip and posture, and make sure the student is comfortable and confident with these fundamental techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass Music Keyboard

It is very important to set a high standard of playing and technique, so that learning is constantly happening. That said, that standard should be approached with compassion and humor, casting the lifelong pursuit of virtuosity an exciting challenge even when it's frustrating. Especially with youth, cultivating a positive attitude and discipline is a key to success. This can be done through musical study. It is important to me to keep the student engaged, and be clear about their motivations for studying: their parents and their own unique drive. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet

Sharing the joy of making music has been a passion of mine since my undergraduate days. I've been lucky enough to have had some of the most fulfilling students along my journey since then. I enjoy beginning students and their progression and growth and have seen some of my younger students granted music scholarships and even music degrees along the way. I've also had the pleasure of working with some of the finest adult beginners since living here in New York. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Recorder

You can learn so much about a student in a 30 minute trial lesson! If a new student is not a total beginner, I will ask them to play their favorite song (or one of their favorites if they have trouble choosing just one). After their performance, I ask them what they liked about how they played. Its important for students to always be aware of what they do well. If they arent able to see their strengths on their own then I share with them what I think their strengths are and encourage them to keep that up. Read More