Rockdale teachers are the real deal—we make sure of it! We select our teachers here carefully (think CIA application process but harder), making sure that our team meets three key criteria:
Today, we’re chatting with Justin, our new Piano, Guitar, Voice and Keyboards/Synth teacher!
We talked with him about how he got his start in music, his teaching philosophy, and what he’s listening to lately.
What was your motivation for becoming a teacher?
My classical piano teacher through High School, and shortly after college seeing a divide between traditional piano lessons and learning to play by ear/chords.
How long have you been performing?
A few solo piano recitals as a teen and High School Jazz Band were the beginnings of my performance career. That means I’ve been performing for over 20 years!
What advice would you give to a new music student?
Connect with music that you like and truly enjoy. That’s what you should be learning! As your teacher, I’ll help you learn the other things that will give you the skills to play any music you like in the future.
What’s your favorite thing about teaching at Rockdale?
I’m new here, but I see Rockdale offers so many opportunities for learning about music including rock bands and recording techniques… also the bright colors of the rooms and artwork!
What have you been listening to lately?
It’s a mix! Emmet Cohen for Jazz. For Classical, realizing how much Chopin could shred! And lots of folk/indie especially Gregory Alan Isakov, Bon Iver.
What’s a fun fact we might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m rediscovering Guitar, and dreaming of playing and singing one day!
Any recent projects you’d like to share?
I hope to finish recording my debut solo piano project “Solstice in Solitude” which reflects the winters my family and I have experienced in the woods of Maine the last 5 years! Also my synth projects on YouTube!