Jefferson Valley Music Lessons

merglass Opera and the Aspen Music Festival. I also have undergraduate and master's degrees from Brown University and the Manhattan School of Music.

But don't let the fact that I'm an "opera singer" give you the wrong idea. Yes, strict classical training gives me in-depth understanding of how the human voice works, but I love and teach music of all genres. My students include professional opera singers, yes, but also rock and Broadway-style singers, college and conservatory students, teenagers singing in their school musicals, doing All-State chorus, or preparing for NYSSMA, as well as adults who are taking voice for the love of singing, the fun of the challenge and so they can join their local chorus or sound great on karaoke night.

Above all, the most important qualities I offer as a teacher are the simple human ones: understanding, patience, imagination, kindness, enthusiasm, respectfulness and absolute commitment to helping you meet your vocal goals.

*** Lesson Details ***

I tailor my lessons to each singer's particular interests, goals and challenges. Some students thrive with a highly technical approach; some thrive in a less formal, more supportive environment; most singers do best with an approach that mixes the two. The important thing to know is that you will receive lessons that are specifically tailored to you. There's no single template.

*** Specialties ***

For advanced classical singers I have a great depth of experience and wide knowledge of oratorio, opera, German lied and French, English and American art songs. I also have a specialized background in "performance practice" baroque and classical vocal ornamentation.

For all singers, I am also a superb acting coach!

a variety of performance opportunities - workshops, and four concerts each year including an annual Community Outreach Concert.

portunity to influence each of my students in a positive way, however small or large. To be granted that opportunity was truly thrilling.

I teach guitar from beginner to advanced levels of performance, in many styles. I teach piano and drums up to an intermediate level. I specialize in Jazz, Folk, Blues, Rock, Funk, and pretty much any contemporary style a student might be interested in learning. Although not my specialty, I am capable of teaching classical styles as well.

I am very excited to teach anyone interested in learning about the wonders of music, and I work with all ages.

*** Lesson Details ***

WILLING TO TRAVEL EXTRA TO CERTAIN SUBURBS OF NEW YORK. Please note: Although my travel radius is set to (X miles-I would suggest 1 mile) I am still willing to travel further to certain parts of New York. If you live in (List of Suburbs/ Locations) I would be willing to work something out depending on what kind of schedule you need. Please use the “Ask Timothy a Question” button on my profile to get in contact with me and discuss your location and additional pricing for traveling out to you.

In my lessons, students can expect to have fun while learning. I am friendly, warm, personable, caring, patient, and fun. I strive to find the perfect balance between learning the important fundamentals of music, and just plain enjoying music. Music takes hard work, but music is supposed to be fun!

I am a laid back person, and I do not expect any strict formalities when interacting with students. I feel that the more comfortable a student is, the more easily that student can learn and have fun doing so. However, I do expect my students to thoroughly practice, to focus, and to strive to improve.

I tailor each lesson to a student's particular needs. Everyone learns and interprets music in different ways, so I strive to serve each of my students uniquely. From basic fundamentals to advanced techniques, I cover everything. I also give each student an opportunity to choose some music that they will enjoy learning.

My curriculum changes depending on the student's ability level, age, and instrument of choice. I typically use a method book for reinforcement of musical fundamentals, and a supplementary "project" piece of music that the student enjoys playing and learning. I do this so that my students can see direct connections between music fundamentals and playing music that they enjoy. My own personal knowledge and experience as a musician is always added to each lesson as well.

*** Travel Equipment ***
For guitar lessons, I provide my guitar and any equipment that the student may not have initially, like for example, their own guitar, or music stand. Piano students will need their own keyboard for the very first lesson. Drum students should have their own drum set or practice pad for the first lesson. I can assist in finding affordable options for instruments. The student should eventually provide their own instrument and equipment, such as their own guitar, music stand, and copy of the selected method book; all of which are things that they will need in order to pursue practicing on their own time.

*** Specialties ***
I am capable of teaching using many methods, styles, and genres, depending on the student and their particular needs. However, I specialize in jazz, folk, and rock styles, as well as improvisation.

de myself on being very open minded in terms of musical taste. Never apologize for liking what you like! I bet there is something in that music which is great. I can't wait to learn something from the music you introduce to me.

I be glad to provide a full resume to anyone who requests it.

*** Lesson Details ***

My most important goal for each student is that they get to where they want to be musically.

I want the student to be able to play the way he or she wants to play. If you want to learn to play one song, that is great! If you want to learn to play one classical etude that is just as great! If you want to learn how to play in a salsa band, bravo! I treat the desires of my students as my curriculum. Each student will receive special prep time from me each week. I pride myself in taking the time and energy to prepare for each meeting. Every time you complete a lesson, it is my hope that you are walking away as a better musician.

In the beginning I hope to find what will musically interests you the most. Usually, you might have a goal that requires you to play on a higher level than you do presently. If that is true, we might take some time to figure out a road map to get you to that place. Along the way, I'm sure you and I will learn many new concepts and techniques that aid you in becoming the bassist/musician you want to be.

And rest assured, the teacher always learns from the student...this is the best part of teaching: learning from the student.

*** Studio Equipment ***

Studio: 3 electric basses, plenty of amps and chords, one acoustic bass, piano, ukulele, guitar, computer playback and recording.

*** Travel Equipment ***
As requested

*** Specialties ***
I have been lucky to play tons of different types of music. I believe I can give musicians and aspiring musicians a deep understanding of what is most important in many different styles of music. Music I have been lucky enough to study and play professionally: Jazz, Rock, Funk, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, Blues, Classical, Pop.
I'm also a very good transcriber, so if there is a song you heard on the radio we can definitely play it! Ear training could be an area in which I could be of service to you as well.
I have many arranging and composing credits and I would be glad to help students in this area whenever requested.

onal tours, released albums, are in bands, have been accepted into performing arts schools (high schools and colleges), have been cast in regional/Off-Off-Broadway/Off-Broadway Theatre, movies (Noah, The Wolf Of Wall Street, Finally Famous), music videos, and on TV (Royal Pains, Smash, 30 Rock, The Good Wife, Law and Order: SVU, & NBC's The Voice competition).

Owner/Teacher: Rachel M.
SAG-AFTRA, VASTA, NATS (certified), NARAS, NAMTA, BMI, MAC, NJMEA, NAfME. NJ Theatre Alliance, & Certified Artist Developer with Conquer Entertainment,
17+ years of teaching to children - teens - adults (Ages 6+ group classes, 8+ private lessons)

RACHEL M.'S BIO:

Rachel is a member of SAG-AFTRA, The National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS certified), VASTA (Voice And Speech Trainers Association), NARAS (The Grammy Awards), NAMTA, NJMEA (New Jersey Music Educators Association), NAfME (National Association of Music Education), NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association,) MAC (Manhattan Association of Cabarets and Clubs), The NJ Theatre Alliance, NSA (Nashville Songwriting Association International), and BMI (Broadcast Music Inc). She has been teaching Bel Canto singing technique for the modern singer and Stella Adler-Stanislavsky-Chekhov-Meisner acting technique for all mediums for 16+ years to children, teens, and adults.

Rachel has trained at The Hages Music Studio under a master teacher for 22+ years in the Bel Canto singing technique for all genres, studied at The Stella Adler Studio of Acting in NYC as well as recorded and released her first album called "Just Meant To Be". Other credits include commercials, films, TV shows (One Tree Hill, AMC, Food Network), music videos (including Rachel's singles "Don't Even Try", "You Will Love On"), & numerous stage credits (Off-Broadway/NYC Theatre). Rachel most recently was seen in the reading of a new play "Vanishing Son" by Peter Gil-Sheridan performed in NYC. She is also a songwriter (16+ years), scriptwriter (10+ years), director (14+ years), and an international recording artist (10+ years).

Rachel has been performing for 20+ years, has performed in front of sold out crowds, and has been honored with many standing ovations. Other honors include magazine covers, featured articles, singing to thousands of people, studio recordings/albums, originated the role of "Antigone" in "Oedipus: The Musical", 2002 Helen Hayes Nomination for" Outstanding Vocal Performance in a Musical" ("Miss Adelaide" in "Guys And Dolls"), & 2008 finalist for NYC Singing Idol Competition. Rachel has also been fortunate to have worked & performed with many people in the business including Grammy-Tony-Emmy Award Winners/Nominees.

LESSON DETAILS

Whether you are a parent looking for instruction for your child, or for yourself, Rachel can customize the right program that best suits your needs. Her students come from all walks of life and have different goals, but they all have one thing in common. They love performing and have the desire to be the best at their chosen craft (singing/acting).

Some students want to sing/act for themselves, others want to sing/act for a hobby, and others want to be professional performers. That's where Rachel comes in. No matter what your goals are, she can help. Rachel teaches her students how to become true artists without tearing them down and without taking away the part of them that makes them unique. She teaches healthy technique that is based off of the human anatomy; the science of how the body/mind works and how the body/mind can work as efficiently as possible while singing or acting.

Learning how to sing/act is a process and doesn't happen overnight. Rachel's ultimate goal as a teacher is to not only make her students the best performers and singers they can be, but also give them all of the proper tools they need to have a more productive mind frame and become self-sufficient. Of course this can take years to master. It takes time and dedication.

OTHER LESSON INFORMATION

SINGING: Bel Canto singing technique for the modern singer is taught in private and group classes. No one sounds like old opera singers, even if the student wants to sing opera. Students are allowed to choose most of the material they learn in the lesson. There will be times when Rachel will suggest a song to a student but if the student doesn't enjoy the song, they will work as a team to find a song that does work for the student. Gain a better tone quality, complete control of your voice, bigger range, more flexibility, and confidence. Learn healthy voice technique, how to fully take care of your own voice so you can sing for the rest of your life (even after lessons), and become a self sufficient performer for life.

ACTING: Stella Adler, Stanislavsky, Chekhov, and Meisner Acting Technique for Theatre/Camera is taught in private and group classes. All students are exposed to each technique and Rachel sees which technique each student responds to the most. Once the student and Rachel are able to identify the technique, Rachel continues to use the terminology of that technique for the remainder of the time the student is in lessons. Students eventually are able to play roles truthfully and realistically, even if the roles are opposite of the student's own personality.

BY THE TIME STUDENTS GRADUATE FROM LESSONS:

1. Gain a lifelong, solid, consistent, and healthy technique that they can always count on in practice and performance.

2. Gain specific technical and personal notes in a notebook and/or computer file that is organized and always accessible for review.

3. Gain artistry, performance skills, and a strong voice that will look/sound authentic; Singers will sound appropriate to whatever style of music they are singing. (No fake sound or look.) Actors will just be in the moment and truthful whether they are on stage or in front of the camera.

4. Gain the confidence to always put on a great performance.

5. Gain focus and a more productive mind frame.

6. Become self-sufficient by knowing how to assess a problem and then fix it without creating a new issue.

*** Studio Equipment ***
PRIVATE HOME STUDIO: Keyboard, speakers (smartphone, iPod, iPad), CD player, tape recorder/player, digital recorder, music stand, mirror, laptop, sheet music selections, HD video camera, tripod, video editing software, audio editing software, USB microphone, and high speed WiFi internet. Full PA, two mixers (one mixer with 8 inputs and the other with 4), 8 Lavaliere microphones ("body mics"), multiple hand held microphones, laptop stand, and music stands.

**ASK ABOUT ON LOCATION TRAINING (ON SET, THEATER, PERFORMANCE EVENT, OR RECORDING STUDIO)!

**ONLINE LESSONS ALSO AVAILABLE!

*** Specialties ***
We specialize in Bel Canto voice technique for the modern singer. Each student can sing all genres without sounding too classical, "fake", and without losing their voice while singing for long periods of time.

Other Specialties: Teaching acting technique for theatre-TV-Film (Stella Adler, Stanislavsky, Chekhov, & Meisner), performance skills, songwriting, and creating self-sufficient singers-actors-performers (Artist Development).

STUDIO POLICIES-

CANCELLATION: 48 hour lesson cancellation policy and emergencies (determined by Rachel Menconi) are handled on a case by case basis. All students (or their parents/guardian if under 18) who have scheduled vacations and other activities (meetings, parties, school shows, concerts, rehearsals...etc) that interfere with the student’s regularly scheduled lesson time, need to contact Rachel Menconi as soon as the vacation/other activity is scheduled but no later than two weeks in advanced before their missed regularly scheduled lesson to prevent from forfeiting the lesson.

MAKE-UPS: Make-Up lessons will be scheduled if time allows. No Make-Up lesson or class will be given to ‘no shows’ or “late cancellation”, and no extra time to extend their lesson will be given to students who are late to their lesson or class. If there is ever a time Rachel Menconi is running late, extra time will be given to make the lesson a full 60 minutes. If Rachel Menconi needs to reschedule, a Make-Up lesson will be scheduled as close to the same week as possible. Make-Up lessons are scheduled at Rachel Menconi’s discretion.

ONLINE LESSONS FOR IN-PERSON LESSON CLIENTS: In the event that the student is sick but still would like their lesson, an online lesson will be scheduled instead. Students can NOT come to their in person lesson sick, coughing, sneezing, with a runny nose, cold, flu, allergies, fever, etc. (This is to make sure no germs will be spread).

An online lesson will also be scheduled if there is bad weather, if a student is having car trouble, or any other reason for the student not being able to physically get to Rachel Menconi’s private studio during their normally scheduled lesson time. Online lessons are conducted through FaceTime, Google, Hangouts, or Skype.

SCHEDULE:
Lessons are weekly, on the same time/day of the week unless we have rescheduled or we have discussed in writing another lesson plan. If the student’s lesson falls on a holiday, we will either reschedule or if no other day is available, resume the following week.

LATENESS:
If a student is going to be late they need to contact Rachel Menconi as soon as possible, to let her know they will be late. Lessons will end on time unless she is able to extend the lesson due to a late student or her schedule allows for it though please understand, Rachel Menconi would be extending a courtesy and would not be obligated to do so. If on the rare occasion Rachel Menconi is running late, she will always make up the time.

SITTING IN:
Parents/Guardians are ONLY permitted to stay for the first lesson and are NOT permitted to sit in for any other lesson/class unless invited. This is to promote good/strong teacher-student relationship quickly and easily. Also, many times students feel more comfortable when their parents/guardians leave.
Of course there will be times when the parent will be invited back in at the end of some of the lesson to showcase progress.

COMMUNICATION: Due to Rachel Menconi normally scheduling students one right after another without breaks, being in the recording studio, performing, or being on set, the best way to contact her is through text AND email. Please ALWAYS leave messages when calling Rachel Menconi with your name, contact info, AND the reason you are calling. Please be specific. Thank you!

"I try to be as fair as possible to both parties when it comes to cancellations, rescheduling, lateness, and make ups. Have a concern or question? Just talk with me. I'm all about communication!" - Rachel Menconi

m sheet music addictions to be able to have fun and confidence out at jams. I also can give a good foundation in music theory as it applies to one's actual playing and have it be fun and make sense.

nday Afternoon Concert Series in the Tenafly Library and the Fort Lee Library, and the Saturday Concert Series in the Closter Library, Ridgewood Library, and many other places.
Ms. Lee is a director and founder of the Music Tree studio in Harrington Park and New City NY as well as a faculty member of the Cresskill Summer Music Program in Cresskill High School. Ms. Suji founded a non profit organization, “Pro Sono” in 2018 which grants monthly concerts to various nursing homes and hospitals and shares Ms. Suji's students’ talent and love with the community.

, guitar and choir at the middle school level, and band, guitar, theory, and jazz band at the high school level. However, I have the most experience in teaching private lessons on clarinet to enterprising students of all ages, and am always looking for more students to teach!