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Teaching Locations:
Online
Teacher's Studio
Levels taught:
Beginner, Intermediate, AdvancedI am a funny, easy going guy who wants you to be inspired by your lessons. A great teacher told me "you don't know what you don't know" and I look at as my job to inspire and lead you down your interest. Whether that's playing your favorite songs you hear on the radio, shredding like your favorite rockstar, or learning how to make 'difficult' jazz changes. My great teacher also said "Music is easy," and I want to take the stigma and intimidation away from learning seemingly difficult music concepts. My goal is to make seemingly abstract concepts seem approachable and applicable to your actual playing.
In addition I offer lessons, on stage presence, voice, and music business. So if you want a one shop stop that not only teaches you all the ins and outs of music, but also can give you ideas on how to get gigs, promote your band, and build a professional network: I'm your guy!
About Blake P.
Hello there!
I'm 25 and a graduate of the Eastman School of Music with a degree in Jazz Guitar performance. I currently work full-time as a freelance musician, I play in wedding/corporate bands, jazz groups, hip-hop bands, funk bands, pop bands, original music projects, and I also run a hip-hop/jazz group. I'm a funny, easy-going guy and I want lessons to be fun and inspiring. With that being said I definitely like to set and accomplish realistic goals with my students, cause why not be the best you can be, right?
My teaching style follows the "Music is Easy" mantra. Basically, I look at it as my job to take the intimidation factor out of music, and let it be what it should be, FUN! It's not to say we won't be learning theory, or getting our skills together, but it is to say that we'll be taking all the fancy lingo and breaking it down for you in concrete practical ways.
In terms of what I teach that really runs the gambit, I teach most styles of contemporary guitar playing, and additionally can teach voice as well. I also have taken extensive marketing classes at the University of Rochester, which means that I can offer some key advise on music business and marketing strategies for your band. I also run my own booking agency, so if you want to talk shop on how to get gigs, which avenues of gigs make the most bread, and other things of that nature, I'm your guy as well!
Hope to hear from you and start some fun learning together!
Reviews
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Student's Home
Blake is a great instructor. He made me feel comfortable and relaxed right away. He went at the pace I needed (glacial) and encouraged me every step of the way. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Teacher's Studio
Blake is a seasoned musician with experience in just about every genre imaginable. Whether it's technique, harmony, theory or aural skills, he can explain any seemingly difficult idea in a concise, logical way. With all the knowledge of a conservatory trained guitarist and gigging musician, he's a down to earth teacher who simply loves music and is passionate about sharing it with his students.
Teacher's Studio
Blake is a dedicated teacher who helped me improve right away! I wasn't at all sure what I wanted (or needed) to work on next but he picked up right away what was best for me. So grateful to have worked with him.
Photos & Videos
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Experience
Owner/Booker
Sep 2017 - PresentGray Booking Agency
A couple years ago I founded the Gray Booking Agency in Rochester New York as a way to solidify my booking service as a business. I operate within a network of professional musicians in virtually every instrument and discipline imaginable. If a person wants a big band, they'll have a big band. String quartet, party band, solo piano and bass clarinet. If people have the budget I will book it! I am the preferred booker for several wedding venues in Rochester.
Freelance Musician
Jul 2010 - PresentSelf-Employed
I have been a freelance musician since I was in high school. Starting out playing local bars with bands I put together, and moving up to being a gun for hire in several bands ranging from blues to pop. I lived in Montreal, QC for a bit, where I played with a ton of musicians there and performed at the Montreal Jazz Festival with my group. While living in Rochester and attending the Eastman School of Music I played with countless jazz groups and in different sessions. I currently work full-time as a freelance musician performing at corporate events, weddings, country clubs, bars, house-parties, and really any place that pays a fair wage to musicians.
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Jazz and Contemporary Media (jazz guitar)
Sep 2015 - May 2018Eastman School of Music
Bachelor's in Music Performance (Transferred to Eastman)
Sep 2012 - May 2014Concordia University - MTL
Languages
English
Fluent / Native Proficiency
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