About
I do not use a "cookie cutter" approach to teaching. Every person is different so their lesson plans should reflect that. There are of course some basics that everyone needs to learn regarding technique and music theory, but styles and approaches differ from student to student.
My father is a professional studio and touring musician who worked with bands and artists such as Supertramp, John Denver, Dolly Parton just to name a few. He started hiring me at 16 years old to play piano on numerous projects getting my foot in many doors. I have since built my own career working as a songwriter, session musician, live performer, recording engineer, and teacher.
I have performed live or on records with John Robinson Jr. (drummer for Michael Jackson, Barbara Streisand, Quincy Jones, etc.) Abraham Laboriel (Bassist for Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Elton John, etc.)
I have written and recorded 60 plus songs that have placed in Television shows such as Access Hollywood, Dr.90210, Jack and Bobby, and others.
I was the musical director for Jillian Cardarelli (an up and coming Country music artist).
In the end, who I am is a musician passionate about teaching. It's the most rewarding job I've ever had. So if you want a teacher who is excited to be teaching then I'm the guy for the gig.
I enjoy almost everything about teaching. I enjoy seeing a student accomplish a goal. I enjoy seeing all the small epiphanies students discover throughout their musical journey. I enjoy the artisitc outlet of music and helping others find their way though that medium.
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Garry K.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
It varies from student to student, instrument to instrument, goal to goal.
With the younger kids I start with a book, usually Alfreds Basic Piano Library. After some time I'll start asking them if there are songs they like and then I'll notate it for them.
With older kids/teens I'll start with some exercises and start them on some scales and cadences. Then we get to some heavier theory and music they enjoy.
With adults I usually start them with the same as the older kids/teens with the understanding that they may not be able to practice every single day due to jobs, kids, spouses, responsibilities... y'know, adult stuff :P
Everybody has certain goal they're trying to achieve and I get them on the path to achieve said goal.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Private piano lessons starting at 6 years old (1990). Music was my main focus through high school and college. Studied at NECC and Berklee. Private lessons with Charlie Banacos in 2009.
2002-Present - Teacher - Piano, Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Banjo, Mandolin, Music Theory, Songwriting, Audio Recording/Mixing/Mastering.
Creating fun, informative, and personalized lesson plans, learning and notating songs students' request.
2002-Present - Performer - Various performances as a Solo Pianist and with numerous bands.
2003-Present - Studio Musician - Worked on hundreds of recordings with some great studio musicians such as John Robinson Jr., Abraham Laboriel, and Marty Walsh.
2006-Present - Recording Engineer - Worked in or with several studios. Fluent in the process and with software such as Pro-Tools, Cubase, Logic, etc.
2008-Present - Musical Director - Guided bands and Jam sessions for various clients and DeAngelis Studio in Haverhill.
2008-Present - Mixing Engineer - Worked with several clients with varying styles to get a professional mix of their music.
2008-Present - Mastering Engineer - Taken hundreds of final mixes through the mastering process.
2008-Present - Songwriter - Over 50 successfully placed instrumental cues in television published by Iron Mike Entertainment
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$40 per 30min lesson
$60 per 45min lesson
$75 per 60min lesson
How did you get started teaching?
I started at 18 out of high school teaching a few of my younger friends. From there I taught here and there traveling to peoples homes for lessons. Started teaching at a local studio back in 2010 and I maintained about 40 students per week there. Now I'm accepting new students at my home studio.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with all ages from 3 to 80. Every student is different. The only "categories" I've been able to place students in are "the ones who practice" and "the ones who don't"... I've worked with both... I prefer the former :P
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A few of my students had a recital recently and I got to see all their hard work pay off. They all did splendidly!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone who is passionate about teaching.
Find someone who listens to what your goals are.
Keep in mind your teacher can only show you the way. It's up to you to do the work to get there.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What music do I love?
How much time am I able to put into this?