Kenneth G.

What is your teaching philosophy?

I’m a NYC-based musician, composer, and teacher. I graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in Jazz Composition. My belief is that music is an art form that has the potential to enrich the lives of students in numerous ways. In all of my teaching, I strive to create a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love for music.

In your opinion, what is the right way to teach and what do you do in your lessons that makes you a good teacher?

I make sure to customize my lessons to the needs of the student. I’m able to explain something in a variety of different ways so that it clicks for the student.. I fully believe that any student is capable of playing and understanding anything they want, as long as they have a teacher that understands how they learn. I urge my students to try to always be discovering new music they like – and then learning and playing it. This creates a path of progression on the instrument that is both highly efficient and also extremely fun and fulfilling for the student.

How many years have you been teaching music lessons?

Seven

What are you most proud of in your musical career?

First when I was hired to tour in the pit band of a popular circus in the New England Area for two months; and second when  I graduated from college.

What’s the best compliment you have ever gotten as a music teacher?

“Everything makes sense the way you explain it.”

What country have you traveled to that you like the most and why?

Italy because of the amazing food and art. 

What languages do you speak?

English and Russian

If you could perform with any musician (alive or dead), who would it be and why?

Barry Harris: he’s been a massive influence on me.

Do you have any interesting or unusual hobbies? If so, tell us about it.

I’ve been drawing since I was a little kid and find it very meditative and relaxing.

What are you currently listening to on the radio, iPod, iTunes, Spotify, etc.?

Red Garland, Miguel Zenon, Pasquale Grasso, Pat Martino, Mulgrew Miller, Cyrus Chestnut, Stevie Wonder, D’Angelo, Jimi Hendrix