Guitar Lessons in Manchester, NY

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I believe that the biggest rewards in life come through the satisfaction that is felt after accomplishing a goal that you have set out to achieve. Everybody is different when it comes to what those goals are but through similar means, we all find our way to some level of success. This is how I approach private instruction. The role of a teacher I believe is that of a guide and mentor. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass

I like to talk with my students and / or their parents, and discover what their desired end result is, or their interests.  I then tailor my lesson to meet their needs.  Sometimes, as you are going along in your lessons, you learn more about your student, and can make adjustments.  Depending on age and level, I'll make sure they know everything from proper care and holding of the instrument to theory.  I have many materials to take from, and have worked with such authors as Mel Bay and Bunny Brunel, to name a couple. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Again, music is a deeply personal subject and I want to encourage every student to find their unique voice and love for music. My goal is to develop strong all-around music skills along with learning the technique of the instrument they chose. Every student works at a different pace, and I plan accordingly. I like to set reachable, realistic goals for students each week to develop a strong sense of accomplishment and hunger to learn more the following week. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Mandolin Recorder Euphonium Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Conga Latin Percussion

Feeling and noticing that there has been gradual success is key to inspiring students to continue with their instrument. Playing a musical instrument presents numerous challenges mentally, physically, and sometimes emotionally. It is equally up to the teacher and the student to recognize the growth that has occured week to week. As long as the work is being put forth by both parties, finding success (even if small) will not be a difficult feat. 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: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

To me, it's important that my students not only gain an understanding of technique and theory, but also an appreciation for the spirit and philosophy of music-making. Whether this includes conversation about each student's unique aesthetic or vision, or the general principles involving listening, leaving space, and communing with other musicians on an almost spiritual level, I do try to integrate at least a little of this type of discussion in my lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola

My method is very flexible and student specific. Everyone learns slightly differently and has their own unique strengths. In general, I have a "sound before sight" method. Students learn music thoroughly, aurally and theoretically before trying to read it off the page. Imagine trying to learn a language by being handed a book. We then use your innate understanding of the music to inform your technique and the way you approach the instrument. Read More