Piano with Armand A.

Music has always been a big part of my life and I really enjoy giving the gift of music to other people. I began teaching guitar lessons during high school after a family friend asked me if I could show him a few things. From there I developed my technique as a teacher and my roster of students grew through word of mouth before I went off to college. Education: I attended New York University in the fall of 2004, majoring in Music Composition at the Steinhardt School of Education. I studied privately with Dr. Joseph Church, who was the Music Director for the Lion King on Broadway, as well as The Who's Tommy. He was a true mentor and helped me hone my skills as a songwriter, lyricist and vocalist. During my time at NYU I spent a year teaching group guitar lessons at the Edgies Teen Center in Lower Manhattan. In this low-income neighborhood it was really important to give my students an outlet to express themselves in a positive way by learning the importance of music. Growing up I studied Classical Piano for many years with Dr. Donald Pirone at the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College. It was during this time that I really discovered my love for music. Personal projects:  I've been performing at venues in New York City since I was about 16 years old and currently play with my band Future Relative. Recently we've played at notable venues in NYC such as Mercury Lounge and Highline Ballroom. *** Lesson Details *** I always like to break up my lessons into a few different areas depending on skill level and preference. Most of the time it breaks down to this: I. Warm-ups/technique exercises - It's important to warm up and dedicate time in every lesson to specific techniques that will be useful later on in the lesson. Just like an athlete who stretches before playing their sport. II. Reading/Scales/Method Books - I always like to make sure my students have at least 1 book they're working in. It provides structure and keeps you motivated. III. Songs/Fun Stuff/Student's Choice/Specific Goals First lessons always start off slow depending on skill level and prior experience, but at the same time I make sure to leave a new student with something they can work on at home and make sure they stay encouraged. The first few lessons can be frustrating, learning anything new is difficult and draining. It's important to be positive! I like to start off by giving an overview of the guitar, show the student how things work, basic technique, go through some light note-reading and finger exercises. It's always good to have a plan for future lessons and set some goals. *** Studio Equipment *** couch, table and mic stand, keyboard, drum kit, music stand, guitar stands, iPod stereo, PA Speakers, metronome, monitors, tuner, extra guitar, room for parents to sit in lesson *** Travel Equipment *** Guitar, Music Stand, Sheet Music, Metronome, Tuner. I've got everything covered! *** Specialties *** I teach Beginner-Intermediate piano. Beginner-Advanced Rock/Pop/Classical Guitar. Beginner-Advanced Musical Theatre/Rock/Pop Vocals.