Woody H
5.0
(2)
Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Bass Guitar
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Country, R&B, Reggae, Latin Jazz, Swing, Samba, Bossa Nova
5.0
(2)
Woody H
5.0
(2)
Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Bass Guitar
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Country, R&B, Reggae, Latin Jazz, Swing, Samba, Bossa Nova
Where I Teach:
In Your Home
My Studio
Ages Taught: 5-80
ABOUT
Degrees / Training / Special Info:
Berklee College of Music, Composition
Overview:
Since 1996 I have been solely committed to a career in teaching and performing professionally. My Father was an amateur jazz pianist, my Grandmother, a professional opera singer prior to marriage. My earliest memories came with a soundtrack: my Dads piano playing. I studied privately both on piano (early) and guitar (later), starting somewhere in my fifth year. I always took advantage of musical opportunities afforded me at school whenever appropriate, whether that was a school musical, talent show, battle of the bands, jazz band or music elective. More formal music education continued at Berklee College of Music, Boston, MA and further studies with the late pianist and author John Mehegan, Westport, CT
EXPERIENCE
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. I have been featured as a solo guitarist in many area venues and am currently performing throughout the Tri-State as one half of the "Dina & Woody" duo.
Teaching highlights include preparing students for recitals, auditions and/or on the gig performance allowing myself to enjoy the gratification that comes with their success. I have been fortunate to mentor more than a few on to prominent music programs, some of whom enjoy part & full-time careers in the art.
METHODS USED
My curriculum varies significantly depending upon the experience/age/aptitude & goals of the student. For example, a self-taught adult that aspires to play blues or classic rock cover tunes in a "garage band" type of situation doesn't really need to spend much time if any learning to read music. This calls for a more "show & tell" approach. Conversely, a 5-year old beginner should learn to read as a matter of course. This will open doors down the road and will enhance his or her capacity for learning*, not just musically but in all areas of intellect.
No singular student is typical. Therefore no teaching method is typical, nor is the approach to any given student. Technique, thought process, feel/emotion, pulse/rhythm,ear and theory are all explored to a degree that is comfortably absorbed by the individual. The degree of aptitude reflected by an individual student will commensurate to the challenge that I will offer in terms of a reasonable expectation for success or, more importantly, the great pleasure to be derived from making music, sharing that ability and the personal reward that comes with that sense of accomplishment in communicating with music.
LESSON STYLE
Everyone has a talent for and comfort level with communication. Music is simply another form of the same though universal and like all art forms, so much more can be expressed with so much less.
From an early age we become comfortable with verbal and physical expression. Music is no different; we just don't learn to speak the language as a matter of course. It is a discipline that can be defined, understood and put into practice.
I do not subscribe to a specific style of/approach to teaching. I try to ascertain what a student hopes to accomplish when possible and plot a path toward achieving that end. The goal is to make and share music. To that end, it is fair to say that some aspects of musicianship cannot be ignored. Development of technique, the ear & rhythm would of the most primary importance. My style/approach to an individual will reflect my interpretation of what best suits their personality with an emphasis on the creative aspects of the art. Ultimately we are trying to help the student discover his or her own "voice".
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
Leave a Review
RATING & REVIEW
Adamgarner
Extremely knowledgeable and effective teacher. Neither I nor my wife can believe how quickly I am learning. And I am pretty untalented. I would highly recommend Woody!
Check out our A+
Rating from the Better Business Bureau
100% Risk-Free Trial Lesson
If you are not satisfied after your trial lesson, you will not be charged and we can match you with another teacher.