Matt Rosenthal
Music Teacher & Classical Guitarist
About.
The Musician
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I have been in love with music since my first memory of it.
Now, with over 15 years of playing experience, I have made it my mission to share the joy of music with as many people as I can. After having trained at Mannes School of Music, I now hold a Bachelors of Music (BM) degree in classical guitar performance from Brooklyn College Conservatory of Music. I currently play solo classical guitar recitals featuring music by composers such as: Francisco Tarrega, Augstin Barrios, J.S. Bach, Leo Brouwer, and more. I was a finalist in WQXR's "Moonlighters Competition," playing an original piece entitled "Debussy in Brooklyn." I also am a member of the prestigious Brooklyn Guitar Quartet.
In addition to classical guitar, I love playing rock music. I play in a rock group named "All the Way Mae;" we have gigged at venues such as Rockwood Music Hall and Arlenes Grocery in New York City.
If you want to check out what I'm up to, feel free to follow me on Instagram @thesmileyguitarist
The Teacher
Besides performing, teaching music is another one of my great passions. I have been teaching private and group guitar and piano lessons since I was 16 years old.
My guiding philosophy is that all students should have the opportunity to learn and grow equally, and in a safe, respectful, and encouraging environment.
To this end, the student-teacher collaborative is a dynamic role - one in which both parties have the opportunity to learn, grow, and relate to each other: the music is simply our vessel for expression. I believe that all students have the skills of questioning. It is through our student-teacher collaboration that I see my students further develop and embrace these skills.
I was formally trained at Brooklyn College, receiving the Advanced Certificate in Music Education to further my career as an educator. I am currently pursuing my Master's in Music Education at The Aaron Copland School of Music (CUNY Queens College).
