Matt Rosenthal
Music Teacher & Classical Guitarist
About.
The Musician
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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.
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If you want to check out what I'm up to, feel free to follow me on Instagram @thesmileyguitarist
The Teacher
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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.
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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.
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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).
