About
I combine my love of music (playing, singing, song writing and producing) with my empathic connection to people. That makes me a teacher who connects on a variety of levels, not just the mechanics of music. I've found that all of us have a balance of confidence and insecurity - as does every artist - and the trick is to identify that special spark, nurture it and learn to share it with a world that despereately needs the Arts. I'm very patient, but I also like to set goals so that my students don't languish at the advanced beginner stage!
Music thrives when we know how to engage our body, mind and spirit so I bring my knowledge of yoga, acting, mindfulness, etc to bear. It's not uncommon that a person who is having trouble singing is really carrying tension some place else. My job as a teacher is to find it!
As a teacher, I get jazzed when a student stretches and finds something that they didn't know was inside of themselves. I also like sharing the tips and tricks I've gathered to turn what might look hard or impossible into a step-by-step approach.
I've been performing, writing and producing for many decades, so it's my pleasure to share my knowledge with people who want to enjoy writing, playing, singing, etc.
Reviews
MICHAEL M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to start with a phone conversation so that we can see if we "fit" with one another. During that time, we'll talk about musical experience, goals, likes and dislikes - all things that will help me understand you. I'll also give a sketch about me so that you can see/hear if I'm someone that feels like a good mentor for you.
The first lesson is a review of some of the above and then we'll get to it! Depending upon what you're learning and your goals, the lessons will be custom-designed to your needs. I'll also be assessing your areas of strength (so we can accentuate them) and weaknesses (so we can minimize or eliminate them).
Lastly, I'll try and give you a "view from 300 feet" about where I see you headed over the course of our time together. It's good for us to be on the same page, right?
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Almost 40 years of professional work as a musician, song writer, producer and teacher.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes. $75.00 per lesson in my home studio. I also have a sliding scale for students and others who need some financial assistance.
How did you get started teaching?
People see in me an expressive performer who can lead a song circle, perform solo or in a group and "know" what song might come next. I think that people want what I have learned from others. We all stand on the shoulders of people who came before us.
What types of students have you worked with?
Adults or motivated teens.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have a student who loves to dance. Once we "discovered" that, it became much easier for us to figure out how to increase his flexability as a singer. I call it "finding the way in" to a song or an artist.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
You have to be comfortable sharing, putting yourself out there bit by bit and drawing all of your experience into your work. If you're looking for someone to just make you a better player, then I'm not your guy. I want to coach people who want to put their heart and soul into music.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Create specific goals. "I just want to learn how to play the guitar" isn't specific enough. "I want to accompany myself so that I can sing my favorite rock songs from the 60s and 70s and then, maybe one day, go to an open mic." Now, that's a goal where we can set-up some steps to get there!