Guitar Lessons in Saddle Rock, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I realized the power of music at a very young age, when I first started singing in a musical theater workshop. I was incredibly shy up until I got to sing as someone else. The music transported me from my rather hectic childhood to a place beyond trouble, and only to freedom and expression. I was lucky enough to continue on this magical track when I was 10 with piano lessons, and then when i was just 13, one the most lively and angst-filled ages, with private guitar lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For a beginning student on guitar, I have them learning notes from a Hal Leonard, Mel Bay, or Alfred starter book. All these books are great, but I believe it depends on the individual student and how they learn. I also teach tab to beginners. I feel it is important to read tabs these days as well as notes. I also work with music theory. It is also important to know what you are doing, not just putting your fingers on the strings. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar

I am a dedicated teacher who loves to see students develop their passion for music and realize their goals. My combination of experience both as a private piano instructor and as a university professor makes me unique. I love to offer my academic knowledge to teach students not only how to play the classical piano repertoire, but also how to use music theory and history in performance, composition, and even improvisation! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

I first ask each student to play for me so I can properly gauge the student's ability. From there, I assign practice pieces and songs that work on the techniques that require the most work. I have used this method for years and all of my students have found this to be the easiest and fastest way to improve. The practice pieces I write are written in the genre that the student wishes to practice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Ukulele Music Acoustic Guitar

The first thing I do with a student usually is find out what his goals are in learning to play guitar and what he wants to do and what kind of music he likes. From there I start going over some of the basic terminology as that is a very vital and crucial part understanding music in general and it will definitely make a huge difference later on as he's learning guitar. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar

My first ever performance was at a piano recital as a 6-year old. By the 5th grade I was performing with a genuine garage band, making our debut performance headlining at our elementary schools talent show. From that time forward I've been in countless multifarious bands and have been performing music in some form or other ever since. I have performed with and sat in for some of the finest NY metro area musicians including the late great Melvin Sparks, Scott Spray (Johnny Winter), Scott Lebish (James Brown) Gil Paris and Jeff Smith. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching music lessons for about 30 years and I enjoy teaching music as much as I enjoy playing it. I strive for a relaxed approach towards teaching music. I stress to my students that slow, deliberate practice every day will yield results. If students are moving forward towards their goals at a comfortable pace for them, it is a good thing. I believe that the most effective way students absorb material is by varying my approach as per student and task at hand. Read More