Singing with Blake P.

Students can expect lessons with me to be personalized, professional and most importantly, rooted in inspiration and joy. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to get into a top music conservatory, we will work together to create a program with clear goals while working at a pace that suits your musical needs. My mantra is “music is easy,” and my goal is to break-down difficult musical concepts in a way that gives you the confidence of a master. We will unlock your potential and have a ton of fun along the way. My “Complete Musicianship Course™” will not only make you a better guitarist, but a holistic musician. With lessons grounded in fundamentals we’ll start small and develop your musical identity within a larger musical tradition. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for your instrument and the music you love. I hold a BFA with honors from the Eastman School of Music, studying under Bob Sneider. I’ve studied at Concordia University with Gary Schwarts and Greg Amirault as well as Bob Thompson. I have been a full-time professional musician for 10 years, performing 146 gigs in 2019. I have been fortunate to have opportunities in a variety of musical arenas; whether it’s rock n’ roll clubs, International jazz festivals, or opening for Ice Cube. I am experienced with ages 5 and up; I’ve been a coach, a counsellor, a high-school choir director and am currently a faculty member of the Rochester Contemporary School of Music. Complete Musicianship Course™ Outline: Warm-up routines: A strong foundation in technique and form. Repertoire and Styles Study: Learn your favorite songs and common stylistic conventions to authentically perform jazz, hip-hop, funk, rock, blues and pop. Rhythmic studies: The key to great music is great rhythm. We’ll learn how to count, subdivide, and groove at any tempo or feel. Harmony: Learn chords and scales, and how they work in tandem to create the songs you love! Improvisation: Learn how to take a solo and make the changes! We’ll go beyond the basic elements to give you vocabulary taken directly from your guitar idols. Ear training: Basic intervals to scales, chords, and transcribing full songs. You will gain the ability to listen to a song and play along without the need for tab-books or written sheet-music. Equipment Consultation: We’ll discuss your guitar, amp, pedals, and even recording equipment. You’ll learn how to play your favorite music with authentic tone.