About
I draw from a wide experience performing Rock, Blues, Classical, Jazz Fusion, Pop, Alternative and Country in a number of bands and solo situations. I went to College at Hartt School of Music for my degree and learned Classical Guitar. I continue teaching (in person and to many online for both individuals and groups). I've produced hundreds of video lessons for local cable TV and my website. I adapt lessons to what a student wants to learn. Lessons can be as easy or challenging as a student prefers. My lessons can take place in my home studio in Windsor, CT or via webcam. I have a great deal of experience teaching both in person and on webcam. I teach all levels, styles and ages. Lessons might include work on Chords, Scales and Exercises, Songs, Music Reading (as desired), Music Theory (as desired), Improvisational Skills, Slide Guitar, Vocal Accompaniment, Fingerstyle, Open tunings, Lead guitar, Songwriting, etc.
I have been involved with music my whole life and have always enjoyed the process of learning, teaching, writing, and producing music of all styles.
Please visit my website listed below for more information and many student testimonials.
Specialties
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Photos and videos
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Marc A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first lesson is a combination of getting to know each other and talking about the student's goals in regards to music. We always begin some lesson material from the first lesson. This will vary greatly depending on whether the student has previous experience playing. There is no problem if we have to take it right from the beginning.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I played in many local Rock and original music bands from a young age. I attended Hartt College for my Music Education degree where I learned Classical Guitar. I have continued to teach all ages, all styles of guitar and bass guitar ever since.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My lessons are based on 30, 45, or 60 minute lessons. As of 9-1-17, my prices are $30, $45, or $60 respectively. Same prices apply to in studio lessons or lessons via webcam.
How did you get started teaching?
I have been playing music and teaching since a very young age. I was literally going around teaching neighborhood students (I remember charging $4 a half hour) from the time I was 11 years old. I later recieved a Music Education degree form Hartt College. I have continued to teach guitar and bass guitar my whole life.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have found that 7 or 8 years of age is a good minimum age to start. All students vary of course. I have taught students of all ages from 7 to into their 80's. I find there is a good deal of interest for adults in their 30's, 40's, 50's and 60's who have always wanted to learn guitar or have wanted to improve on what they had previously learned. I teach any style a student wants to learn. The student and I work together on developing a plan for their goals.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am an active songwriter and recording artist and one of my favorite yearly events is something called the Taxi Road Rally. Held in L.A. once a year, it is a meeting of literally thousands of songwriters and performers from all over the world. Most are actively involved "pitching" songs to various opportunities. This is a huge worldwide family and through this I have an impressive list of co-writers and co-performers I work with from around the world. It has become second nature (but is still fascinating) to write and record a song (usually within a few days) with others with no geographic limitation.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Pick your instrument, pick a style, pick a teacher with good credentials. Be open to adjust anything you need to so you always enjoy the experience of learning, playing, (and perhaps writing) music. Keep an open mind. If you have tried a teacher in the past you did not enjoy lessons with, do not give up on your dream/desire to play music. Try other teachers if you need to, even if it is 10 or 20 years later. I have seen and heard this over and over again with students who have come for lessons (and have typically stayed with me for a long time).
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What instrument do you want to play?
What style of music are you interetested in?
Try to pinpoint what your short term and long term goals are. (This might be difficult for a new student and is something that a good teacher can help you with.)