About
As a composer of music, I teach with the goal of enabling a student to express, learning to feel rhythm and sing pitch, not only to read music, but also to become inventive. To invent, you need a good foundation of playing technique and a level of comfort with the instrument. I utilize basic classical technique when teaching PIANO AND GUITAR, yet I encourage playing of popular as well as classical songs.
I teach piano to 5 year olds and older, and guitar to children entering 3rd grade and older. I teach acoustic guitar; note reading and playing, quickly learning and using simple chords to play known songs, often of the student’s choosing. As possible I encourage playing and singing songs, and for advancing students, finger style solo playing (in which guitarist plays the tune in the midst of the accompaniment). Piano lessons begin with hand exercises, finger number and rhythmic notations, simple note reading, simple folk and popular tunes (also trying to develop singing while playing skills). As students advance we add classical music to the mix; piano students are always encouraged to play popular songs (for self expression and sharing with others) and classical to sharpen skills and enjoy the beauty of many different musical styles.
I charge $25 for 30 minute individual lesson. It’s requested that a parent sit in on each lesson, to engage and enable the parent to help supervise practice sessions during the week. I sometimes teach siblings in a shared 30 or 45 minute lesson.
Check out my website: www.musicmanincwebsite.com for background and references. Contact Aaron at: 480-407-8560
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
At our first lesson I evaluate the student's level of previous learning (if any), and decide on an approach that will engage the student and help bring them success.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
10 years Third Street Music Settlement in Manhattan New York beginning at 5 years old, studing classical piano and music theory. Trumpet lessons from the age of 10 in band and orchestra-then with private teachers, 3 years as a performing union musician in New York. I attended workshops for Orff/Kodaly training provided by master teachers for years in Phoenix Arizona, and studied 6 other instruments with private teachers over the course of more than 20 years. I've been teaching music in schools and privately for the past 38 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$25. for 30 minute individual lesson. I always ask a parent to sit in to improve chances for good practice sessions during the week. Often I teach siblings in a combined 45 minute or 1 hour lesson, costing $45./ $60. respectively.
How did you get started teaching?
After working as a performing musician, I realized I enjoyed sharing my love of music with students more than with an audience. I spent years working in child care centers and private kindergartens while also teaching piano lessons. Gradually I expanded my teaching to lower and upper elementary age, spent several years learning to play several band instruments and now I teach children from 1 year old (we have active sing alongs), Kindergarten- 2nd grade Orff/Kodaly style program and recorder lessons, through 3rd- 6th grade band in 2 local schools. I also have approximately 20 private students studying piano, guitar and ukulele.
What types of students have you worked with?
All ages including adults and those with developmental challenges.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
2018 recital in Chandler AZ. (see the picture I'm using in my profile).
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Check the teacher out through friends or reviews. Visit and observe-can this teacher advance my ability to play music, does this teacher help me to learn.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Without some regular and concentrated practice sessions during the week, lessons will not bring the desired result. Figure 3 or 4 sessions lasting at least 20 minutes per week-not my rule, but for sure my experience as a musician. Anything you want to learn will take time-make sure you devote some time and I urge you to consider that time to be fun not work.