Michael Hilgendorf

Hello all! Thank you for your interest in studying with me. I am a conservatory trained jazz guitarist currently residing in NYC, where I perform regularly as a sideman in the city's jazz scene, as well as in the pop/rock scene.

Education is one of the most beautiful and essential components of being a well-rounded musician: It is our duty as musicians to take the skills we've developed and pass them on to the next generation, supporting them and giving them the courage to develop themselves, no matter what level. Because of this passion, I always carve out time to take on students of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds!

Here are some of my credentials:

-BMU Columbia College Chicago

-MM Manhattan School of Music

-Have shared stages with musicians like: Bernard Purdie, Cory Henry, Cassandra O'Neal (Prince), Kendrick Scott, Donny McCaslin, Dayna Stephens, and more

-8+ years of teaching experience

As a jazz musician, here are some examples of areas I'm skilled in:

-Learning how to improvise over chord changes/growing your improvisational vocabulary

-Music theory

-Ear training

-Repertoire

-Rhythmic analysis

Though my focus is in jazz music, I work regularly with pop/rock artists, as well as in corporate/party bands in and around NYC, so I am well versed in teaching music in those genres as well.

And of course, I don't want to leave out my beginners! I've helped people from ages as young as six up to folks in their 60's how to play the guitar from absolutely no experience! I'm equally "at home" working with beginners of any age as I am with my more advanced or intermediate students.

Looking forward to working with you!