Matt Maher Music Lessons
About
Hello! My name is Matt Maher, and I look forward to sharing my lifelong love of music with you!
About me: I have a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia (in Fredonia, NY) and a Master's Degree in Jazz Studies from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA. I have five years of public school teaching experience, and I've taught just about everything musical in that time! Jazz bands, concert bands, orchestras, marching bands, choirs, you name it! Currently, I'm teaching General Music and Choir at MaST Community Charter School in Northeast Philly, and I couldn't be happier!
My approach to teaching and learning music is to learn the skills you need to start making the music that speaks to you as a musician. I incorporate ear training and improvisation into every lesson I teach.
I wish you luck in whatever you want to accomplish in music, and I hope that you'll choose me to help you do it!
I'd have to say that my favorite part of teaching is when my students do well and have breakthroughs. It's an incredible feeling to work with someone towards a goal and then to be their as they achieve it and share in that joy.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, we talk about your interests and why you decided to start taking music lessons. This gives me a sense of what direction our lessons should take. Then we talk about any prior music instruction you've had, whether you've had private lessons before or whether you only had general music classes in school.
After that, we get started on the instrument: producing a good sound, preventing unnecessary muscle tension, and ear training. Then we move on to reading music and learning repertoire.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Bachelor's of Music in Music Education
Master's Degree in Jazz Studies
5 Years experience in Public Education
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$20 for 1/2 hour lesson
$30 for 45 minut lesson
$40 for 1 hour lesson
How did you get started teaching?
I am and always have been a music educator because I want to make a difference. Music has provided me some of the most meaningful experiences of my life, from introducing me to my closest friends to intense moments of catharsis soloing with a band. My hope is to help my students to have the same kind of beautiful experiences that I've had in my career in music.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students from age 5 to middle age. The specifics change, but the goal is always the same: to experience joy in performance.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Always look for a teacher who has expertise in the specific subjects you are interested, even if you are starting completely new. You want to make sure that you have a goal in mind for your training!