Lesson Details
Songwriting
- Levels Taught:
- Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Richard teaches
About
- Teaches students:
- Ages 5+ and special needs
- Teaching since:
- March 1983
I have studied, performed and taught music for over 30 years. Accordion was my first instrument at age 7 which was a great introduction to the keyboard, melody and harmony. That was followed by guitar and other stringed instruments (Banjo, Ukulele) as well as drums. I studied with great teachers in the past as well as at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. I have also performed at the Cape Cod Jazz Festival, The Bakersfield Jazz Festival and numerous club dates and private functions throughout New York, New England and California.
*** Lesson Details ***
Students will experience an "original" lesson based on how they learn. Some students benefit most from a visual standpoint reading music or tab while others learn best by an auditory or hearing approach. We will explore what works best for you. Whether its blues, rock jazz or other styles, we will find the best avenue to progress toward your goals. At the same time I believe it should always be a fun thing to do!
*** Studio Equipment ***
Guitars - Drums - Banjo - Amplifiers - Piano - Accordion - Ukes and other assorted instruments
*** Specialties ***
Depending on student interest, I teach numerous styles (Rock, Blues Jazz improvisation) by reading music or by ear. Some students are more visual while others are auditory learners. Whichever is best for the student.
Experience
Musician/Teacher
Jan 1985 - PresentI have taught and performed on a variety of different instruments (guitar, banjo, ukulele, drums) and styles for over thirty years. Performances include the Cape Cod and Bakersfield Jazz Festivals, the Sweet & Hot Festival in Los Angeles and numerous club and private functions throughout California, New York, Florida and New England.
+ Read MoreMusic Teacher
Jan 1970 - PresentOver 30 years teaching and performing experience. Performed at Music festivals, studio recordings as well as clubs and private functions.
Education
Bachelor of Arts
Sep 1972 - Dec 1980Bachelor's Degree
Jan 1972 - Dec 1979Languages
English
Certifications
Bachelor of Liberal Arts - Berklee College of Music
Jun 1976College degree from University of Maryland and studied at the famed Berklee College of Music in Boston
Affiliations
Music Teachers National Association
Jan 2004The MTNA was founded in 1876 with the goal of advancing the value of music study and music-making to society while supporting the careers and professionalism of teachers of music. With nearly 22,000 members in 50 states—and more than 500 local affiliates—the MTNA is the preeminent source for music teacher support, where members embody like-minded values and commitment to their students, colleagues and society as a whole, while reaping the rewards of collaboration, continuity and connection throughout the lifetime of their careers.
+ Read MorePhotos & Videos
24 Reviews
Write a ReviewExcellent first lesson!
very patient and knows his stuff.
Richard was terrific. Patient, knowledgeable and enthusiastic! I look forward to continuing to work with him!
This was the best music lesson I’ve had thanks to Richard. He made it fun and easy. I get nervous of being a slow learner but he wasn’t phased and made it fit my learning ability
Richard has the knowledge and communication skills needed to be a very good teacher, and he is.
My son always look forward to next lesson. Richard is amazing.
Informative, friendly, patient and knowledgeable.
It is fun to learn basics with Richard. Looking forward to the next lesson.
Very talented guy and so experienced!!!
Fun very patient instructor
Richard gives excellent instruction and has a kind and easy going demeanor. He is proficient in the banjo and his teaching style is great. He doesn't waste time during the lesson and gives you a full an honest time of instruction. His studio is clean and inspires learning.
+ Read MoreRichard is a great teacher, very friendly and nice and knowledgeable. Highly recommend! Thanks TakeLessons.
Very informative, but teaches at a great pace to make sure you understand the material
This was my first lesson. Richard was very patient with me.
I'm looking forward to my next lesson.
Very knowledgeable and friendly. I was surprised at how far I got for the first lesson. Inspired me to practice and give it a go.
It was very nice and I had a lot of fun and I learned a lot!! Lexi
Richard is a great teacher
Patient and yet challenging. Always goes the 2nd mile to be helpful and keep things interesting while concentrating on the building blocks of later competence.
5 star EASY!!! Richard was a great teacher. I was a beginner Adult who didn't even know how to tune the thing before having lessons with Richard. Super patient to begin with and he really knows his stuff. Now I'm able to play a couple songs and take what he gave me and build from there. I would highly recommend him for anyone.
+ Read MoreRichard is a wonderful teacher. Very patient and knowledgeable
Professional and patient with kids!
Mr. Richard, as we call him, has been fantastic with my 7 year old son. His early recommendations maximized my son's guitar interaction and the visible (audible?) progress being made actively encourages practice at home.
Mr. Richard is able to give simplified homework that my son can understand. As opposed to "practice for 20 minutes per day", Mr. Richard was able to identify what works with my son's personality and established practice criteria that was much more effective.
Great lessons
I learned a lot in just a few lessons. I enjoy taking lessons from Richard. He is professional, knowledgable & on time.
Developing passion for music
Richard is doing a wonderful job at developing a passion for musical instruments with my 6 year old son!
Excellent First Day
Thank you Richard for a first day's great experience. Hope it will continue with your new Banjo