Chris V.

In addition to many years of private lessons, I have studied music theory and piano performance with professor Gary Klein at Long Island University, for over five years.

I have taken various masterclasses with guitarists and pianists over the course of the years. Guitarists that I have studied with include Andy Bianco, and briefly with Bill Harkleroad, and Mary Halvorson. I studied piano for many years since childhood, but most recently with Gary Klein (also professor of music theory) and Zelma Bodzin. I view music education as an ongoing process, and I have considered following my own curiosities a top priority for all of my life as a musician.

I have performed in a variety of settings, including solo piano performances, various rock bands, jam bands, and jazz improvisation projects. My most recent work has been doing session guitar work for a colleague who is studying commercial music at university, and also as the co-founder and composer with the jazz-rock instrumental group Pink Islands, which is preparing material for its debut album.

I have taught privately for over 7 years, both piano and guitar. I also teach music theory, which I feel is a very important topic, that should never be overlooked. Since raw talent alone is not enough for success as a musician, integrating theory and practice and meeting students on their own level is a dynamic process, and tailoring the approach is a passion of mine.