Guitar Lessons in Avella, PA

Instruments: Guitar

Teaching style: having the student focus on simplicity...focus on practice, practice, practice....focus on enjoying the lesson, not dreading it. I will assess the students' needs simply by having a conversation first. Then ask some basic questions about what music style is appealing to them. Most important is that whatever the student's level is, just feel comfortable, relaxed and look forward to this wonderful journey that is called "Playing the Guitar"!    Keep in mind, my schedule is flexible. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As for my educational pedigree, I was graduated cum laude from Boston's Berklee College of Music (1979); earned a Master's Degree in Music Theory from Duquesne University (1987); and was engaged in post-graduate studies in Music Theory at the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music (1987-90). I know have much to offer any interested student. I very much enjoy taking beginning level students, ensuring they "learn it right the first time." I recently had a high school student who placed 3rd in the Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society Competition with less than 4 years of study with me. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students, we will go over the basics of single-note playing, as well as basic chords. We will also cover basic rhythms, so they can build up to playing their favorite songs. There are also many ways to be creative with music, and we may also play some musical games to make practicing more fun. If students are interested in composing or song-writing, I can assist with that as well. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

As a classically trained musician, my approach blends elements of text instruction with experiential learning, allowing for a deeper level of understanding and processing of the materials and skills necessary to become a skilled musician. Read More

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

When it comes to young beginners, especially children, my teaching approach is carefully designed to nurture their budding musical journey. I often kickstart their lessons with the trusted Hal Leonards Essential Elements, providing them with a strong foundation in music. As they progress and grasp the fundamental skills, I gradually introduce solo repertoire thats tailored to their abilities, preparing them for their exciting first recital performance. For adult learners, my approach takes into account their unique interests and aspirations. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I typically recommend that all beginner students start with Hal Leonard's guitar method books to learn the essential notes, chords, scales, styles, and music theory. After a student becomes comfortable with the basics, I begin diving into what styles or genres the student enjoys or favors. Tailoring lessons for each individual student is very important to my teaching. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

I have been teaching private lessons for the last 6 years and began teaching in the public school system in spring of 2022. This fall, I will be a long-term substitute orchestra teacher for North Allegheny School District. My education at Duquesne was entirely focused on music education. I took various courses in instrument methodology for brass, woodwind, and string instruments, and studied leading pedagogy practices from distinguished educators. I studied cello with PSO musician Adam Liu, and performed challenging works for solo cello in my studio as well as orchestral works with the full Duquesne Symphony Orchestra. Read More