Music Lessons in Penfield, NY

Instruments: Bass Guitar Double Bass

I am enthusiastic about introducing myself and sharing my passion for music in the world of the double bass. With a rich background including over a decade of teaching experience as well as more than more than five years of professional playing, my musical journey has been shaped by prestigious institutions such as the Eastman School of Music and the Interlochen Arts Academy. I have had the privilege of joining the stage with distinguished orchestras like the Albany Symphony and Binghamton Philharmonic, alongside various other orchestras across upstate New York, as a substitute player. Read More

Instruments: Drums Djembe

Chris finds immense purpose behind the drum kit and strives to spread positivity through his music. He has been drumming for over 10 years and has been gigging professionally for over 6 years, performing in a variety of contexts, including both large and small jazz ensembles, funk bands, hip hop groups, singer-songwriters, and pop bands. He cultivates a unique sound at the drums, combining elements of African, Caribbean, and South American rhythms with traditional Western grooves to create something entirely fresh and powerful. Read More

Instruments: Piano

For young students starting piano lessons for the first time, I recommend either Bastien or Hal-Leonard method books. I also encourage the development of aural skills, rhythm, and note reading through games and listening assignments. I develop technique from the upper arm down, starting with muscles that are larger and easier to control. For adults, I cater my lessons and teaching to the needs of each student. I encourage being intellectually curious and experimental in approach to piano playing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I am happy to teach absolute beginners, intermediate players, and anyone who feels like they are stuck and can't get better. In most cases I will photocopy material from a variety of books or use my own. I would most likely recommend a book after I got a feel for the students level and music style preference. The one book I do recommend for beginners who are a little older is The Complete Technique Theory and Scales by Joseph Alexander. Read More

Instruments: Drums Conga Music Djembe

I tailor my lesson plans to fit each student's individual learning style and situation, and I prioritize the student's desires in what they want to learn or need help with first over anything else. I believe that it is possible to learn in a way that is enjoyable for everyone involved, and I also always ensure that the student has enough time at the end of each session to practice the material on their own so that they leave the lesson more confident than before. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Music

While teaching, I create a very friendly and welcome environment. Comfort between the student and teacher is critical in order to progress with technique and repertoire. I open the floor to questions, concerns and truly want to hear what the students perspectives are. With beginner students, the primary focus is on breath management, developing flexibility between ranges, and applying technique to repertoire. For more advanced singers, I am able to help prepare for auditions or performances and focus more on the quality and control of the voice. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is fairly simple. Whatever the student wants to learn, I will do my best to teach them how to take and conquer each step to get there. I never really had any formal music lessons until college, but I know that when I had a teacher, I wished that I could just learn what I wanted to learn. I want my students to feel absolutely comfortable when we're in a lesson. Read More