My teaching method is tailored individually to each student but I draw upon many similar materials. My teaching philosophy is built upon:
1. Written Music Proficiency + Technical Exercise's
2. Aural Skills (such as transcribing)
3. Development of improvisational musical vocabulary
4. Tune Learning
5. Music Theory
No matter the genre or the student, with consistent and personalized instruction great strides can be made in their performance and confidence as musicians.
I have been teaching students for the past 5 years on Jazz guitar, music theory, and beginning guitar. I have consistently taught 2-3 students through college. My students have learned how to learn for themselves and how to successfully self-diagnose areas for improvement. I am a recent graduate of Michigan State University's Jazz Studies program and have played with Michigan States Jazz Octet IV and Jazz Orchestra's I & II. Additionally, this summer I have played with the Joseph Herbst Sextet l creating a debut album. I look forward to learning with you!
For lessons that require instructor travel, rates will be decided upon by mutual agreement of both parties.
Education and Relevant Skills
Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI Bachelor of Music – Jazz Studies
Graduated – May 2019
Cumulative GPA: 3.51
Honors: Dean’s List, yearly academic and audition-based scholarship of $27,000
Teaching and Performing Experience
Michigan State University Jazz Octet IV, East Lansing, MI Guitarist directed by Randy Napoleon (September 2015-May 2016)
Michigan State University Jazz Orchestra II, East Lansing, MI Guitarist directed by Etienne Charles (September 2016-May 2017)
Michigan State University Jazz Orchestra I, East Lansing, MI Guitarist directed by Rodney Whitaker (September 2017-May 2019)
• Performed community and education concerts throughout Michigan and the Detroit Jazz Festivals of 2017 and 2018
• Assisted jazz faculty with master classes and workshops for high school ensembles across the state including underserved middle & high schools
Okemos High School, Okemos, MI Student Teacher (January 2019-May 2019)
• Rehearse “big band” ensemble (20 students) and provide constructive feedback on their performance
• Prepared and lead several original masterclasses with an emphasis on the culture of jazz
Peckham Incorporated, Lansing, MI
Lead Contract Performer (September 2016-May 2019)
• Coordinated groups activities with Peckham Incorporated and lead ensemble in performance
• Strengthened community engagement with the mentally and physically disadvantaged employees of Peckham
West Irondequoit High School, Irondequoit, NY Guest Artist (May 2017-June 2017)
• Evaluated students on “big band” playing (12 students) and diagnosed weaknesses in performance for improvement
• Produced several original lesson plans on the fundamentals of improvisation
Additional Skills:
• Multi-Instrumentalist: Guitar, Piano, Trombone, and Vocal performance
• Personal Skills: Leadership, Patience, Empathy, Initiative, and Classroom Management
• Technical Skills: GarageBand, Logic, Finale, Sibelius, and Microsoft Suite
I've gigged and been friends with Peter for a long time. He's punctual, reliable, and very knowledgeable about music and harmony. He is also patient, and I've learned a lot from him both in jam sessions and on the bandstand. Based on his patience, his kindness, and his standard of excellence, I would definitely recommend him to anybody as an mentor!
I've gigged and been friends with Peter for a long time. He's punctual, reliable, and very knowledgeable about music and harmony. He is also patient, and I've learned a lot from him both in jam sessions and on the bandstand. Based on his patience, his kindness, and his standard of excellence, I would definitely recommend him to anybody as an mentor!
I have known Peter for almost 6 years now, and I have never seen anything less than the very highest level of professionalism and musicianship from him. He is a brilliant guitarist, as well as being one of the nicest people that I have ever worked with. I highly, highly recommend his guitar instruction to anyone at any level.
Peter has my absolute highest recommendation as a guitar instructor and as a person. When Peter began teaching me guitar, I had no prior experience and was a complete beginner. However, Peter was extremely patient with me, made me feel comfortable, and never judged my abilities in a negative manner. He is highly knowledgeable, friendly, kind, and willing to go above and beyond for his students. Peter is also an extremely talented guitar performer and definitely knows his stuff. You won’t find a better teacher than Peter!
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