I am a songwriter, composer, and performer. I am a formally trained musician with considerable real world performing experience. Teaching music is something I enjoy immensely and something I am extremely passionate about.
During my time as a college student studying music, I began teaching guitar lessons. I found the work to be extremely rewarding. I was happy to be spreading a bit of love for music around, and I believe I made some lasting impressions. I continued to teach music lessons after I graduated, expanding to teach piano as well.
The more I taught, the more I found sincere joy in teaching. As I was was getting to know each of my students better, I realized that I was doing more than just teaching music lessons. I was acting as an example, a friend, and a counselor of sorts. I realized that each lesson was an opportunity to influence each of my students in a positive way, however small or large. To be granted that opportunity was truly thrilling.
I teach guitar from beginner to advanced levels of performance, in many styles. I teach piano and drums up to an intermediate level. I specialize in Jazz, Folk, Blues, Rock, Funk, and pretty much any contemporary style a student might be interested in learning. Although not my specialty, I am capable of teaching classical styles as well.
I am very excited to teach anyone interested in learning about the wonders of music, and I work with all ages.
*** Lesson Details ***
WILLING TO TRAVEL EXTRA TO CERTAIN SUBURBS OF NEW YORK. Please note: Although my travel radius is set to (X miles-I would suggest 1 mile) I am still willing to travel further to certain parts of New York. If you live in (List of Suburbs/ Locations) I would be willing to work something out depending on what kind of schedule you need. Please use the “Ask Timothy a Question” button on my profile to get in contact with me and discuss your location and additional pricing for traveling out to you.
In my lessons, students can expect to have fun while learning. I am friendly, warm, personable, caring, patient, and fun. I strive to find the perfect balance between learning the important fundamentals of music, and just plain enjoying music. Music takes hard work, but music is supposed to be fun!
I am a laid back person, and I do not expect any strict formalities when interacting with students. I feel that the more comfortable a student is, the more easily that student can learn and have fun doing so. However, I do expect my students to thoroughly practice, to focus, and to strive to improve.
I tailor each lesson to a student's particular needs. Everyone learns and interprets music in different ways, so I strive to serve each of my students uniquely. From basic fundamentals to advanced techniques, I cover everything. I also give each student an opportunity to choose some music that they will enjoy learning.
My curriculum changes depending on the student's ability level, age, and instrument of choice. I typically use a method book for reinforcement of musical fundamentals, and a supplementary "project" piece of music that the student enjoys playing and learning. I do this so that my students can see direct connections between music fundamentals and playing music that they enjoy. My own personal knowledge and experience as a musician is always added to each lesson as well.
*** Travel Equipment ***
For guitar lessons, I provide my guitar and any equipment that the student may not have initially, like for example, their own guitar, or music stand. Piano students will need their own keyboard for the very first lesson. Drum students should have their own drum set or practice pad for the first lesson. I can assist in finding affordable options for instruments. The student should eventually provide their own instrument and equipment, such as their own guitar, music stand, and copy of the selected method book; all of which are things that they will need in order to pursue practicing on their own time.
*** Specialties ***
I am capable of teaching using many methods, styles, and genres, depending on the student and their particular needs. However, I specialize in jazz, folk, and rock styles, as well as improvisation.