Suzuki Method with George E.

I had my first piano lessons when I was in the 1st grade just over 20 years ago. When I picked up the guitar a few years later I found it to be extremely difficult and even frustrating -- but I was hooked by the challenge and I soon became determined to master this wonderful instrument. I began teaching because I wanted to share what I had learned. And, as I believe teachers should 'practice what they preach,' I continue to study and hone my own skills every day. I am completing an advanced degree at the State University of New York at Stony Brook. While I have had many years of intensive training in classical music, I remain versatile in everything from Rock, Heavy Metal, Jazz, Big Band, Folk Music and beyond. I tend to focus on helping students realize they can learn any song they want to with a little patience and commitment. Learning how to play by ear and reading music are tools we use to learn music and those skills are introduced on day one. I will never put a piece of sheet music in front of an absolute beginner, however, we will work on recognition of basic components of musical symbols and sounds. For intermediate and advanced students, I typically work with them on whatever they choose in the beginning. I will make ongoing song/piece recommendations as lessons continue. *** Lesson Details *** The best lessons have a balance between enjoyment and work; even better lessons or practice sessions are those in which the work feels like play. Keeping things moving forward is important, and this can be achieved through regular weekly lessons as well as with regular daily practice. I do my best to provide a road map of structure for the student and/or parent(s) so that progress can continue between lessons. The structure provided may be tailored to fit with student needs. However, all students will follow basic practice recommendations discussed each week and reviewed the following lesson. For younger students, I tend to thoroughly involve the parent(s) at each lesson -- for these students, parental involvement is vital for positive and steady growth. Please contact me for further details and so we can discuss how lessons may work for you. *** Travel Equipment *** Acoustic guitar, footstool, music stand. *** Specialties *** I specialize in teaching beginning, intermediate and advanced guitar. While I do instruct in all styles/genres of music, my students have tended to excel in learning theory, composing, improvising and performing in classical, jazz and rock.