Guitar Lessons in Hamlin, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola

I have been a teacher almost as long as I can remember. As one of the more advanced students in class I was often utilized to help other students, even in elementary school. By the time I reached high school, I was sitting in the concertmaster seat (even though I was a violist) and I regularly led sectionals and conducted the orchestra when needed. At that point I also had a small private studio. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I played many solo performances, joined wind ensemble, played in the All-State band each year and went to the National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis, Indiana. Toward the end of High School, I grew a new taste for guitar and silently practiced it behind my saxophone, in college, until I was good enough to perform with it. Now I've played shows all around upstate New York as a lead guitarist in several bands and released an album with my primary band, Baker Street. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

At my current day job, I am a music teacher at an art-centered music program for adults with varying levels of physical and developmental disabilities. We work on elements of music history, theory, and performance which culminate in a thematic bi-monthly performance. I focus on the needs of each person while still maintaining a fun and engaging group class atmosphere through repetition and a consistent schedule. I also teach private lessons and have taught people from all different age groups and abilities. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Saxophone Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Banjo Mandolin Tuba Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

Yes for teaching piano I use Nancy and Randall Faber's books. I have used all of them. For guitar and mandolin I generally do not use a "book". As the lessons progress I might introduce a book if that is what is called for. All orchestral instruments call for the structure of a book and I augment that with my own explanations. This is true for all ages of learners. Read More

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

I love seeing my students succeed and share in their joy when they have reached a goal they have worked so hard for. My biggest philosophy is creating an individualized curriculum that focuses on the student's goals and providing detailed instruction in lessons for their practice sessions. Songs and exercises are fun and sequenced in a way that makes goals attainable for the student. This keeps the students motivated to keep practicing and ultimately meet their goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

After that I still try to keep it relaxed but a bit more focused. The first lesson with any student is usually a sort of trial-and-error phase until the student starts to feel comfortable with methods/approach. I do use books but don't rely on them. If a student is really trying to focus on a particular aspect of music, like for example phrasing during improvisation, then I can share my own knowledge and recommend professional material to them. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

When you were growing up and were learning to speak, no one told you to go practice speaking alone in your room until you were good enough to talk (or jam) with the masters. As a child you were already "jamming" with the masters, no adult decided not to speak with you because you weren't at their speaking level. I will do my best to make learning music as natural a process as possible. Read More