Michael Laster

$80

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Introduction

Taking a collaborative approach, I steer lessons towards whatever the student's musical goals are while moving at a pace that's comfortable. I create learning resources for my students, (tablature, leadsheets, visual examples of theory etc.) in addition to learning their preferred songs during my free time, so no part of the lesson is wasted. I love answering questions as to why certain things work musically and others don't, and seeing light bulbs go off in the student's mind once they reach a personal breakthrough.

Overview

Hired 34 times

Serves New York, NY

Background checked

8 years in business

Business hours

SunClosedMonClosed

Payment methods

This pro accepts payments via Cash, PayPal, and Venmo.

Top Pro status

Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.

2017

Featured Projects

12 photos

Specialties

Guitar type

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Interested musical styles

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Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.

Exceptional 5.0

28 reviews

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Read reviews that mention:

Madeline l.

Sep 17, 2021

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Hired on Thumbtack

I’m 25, work fulltime, and have some extremely rusty background in music and a few years of self-taught guitar experience. I reached out to Mike for lessons because I wanted some real guidance and structure to lean in to my playing a bit more. Mike has been so flexible with scheduling around my work, brings thoughtful materials to each lesson and has been focusing on styles and artists that match my goals. My practicing has been so much more productive and skill-focused, and I’m a more confident player in just a few months- wish I started with Mike years ago!

Details: 18 - 25 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Yes, can read guitar tabs • Acoustic • Rock • Blues • What the teacher recommends • Country • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • My home, venue, etc. • At the pro’s location

Guitar Lessons

Nisha P.

Sep 3, 2019

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Hired on Thumbtack

Michael gave me an introductory lesson to guitar. He was patient and brought handouts for me as part of his lesson plan. Together, we discussed how I could achieve my goals and play the songs that I want to learn. I’m confident that I can learn how to play under his guidance and direction. Thanks Michael!

Details: 26 - 44 years old • No formal training • Yes, can read guitar tabs • Acoustic • Rock • Folk • Yes, the student has an instrument • 45 minutes • My home, venue, etc.

Guitar Lessons

Zarah M.

Sep 30, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

Micheal is teaching my kids to play the guitar. His approach of teaching them by getting down to their level is amazing. My kids love learning from him and look forward to his lessons every week. Hiring him to teach my kids was the best decision I made.

Guitar Lessons (for children or teenagers)

Kurt M.

Jan 7, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

I've been playing on and off for years and I've learned more from Micheal in a few lessons than I have in 5 years of playing on my own.

Guitar Lessons (for adults)

Shreya N.

Oct 12, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

I take piano lessons from Michael. He is a great teacher, particularly because he customizes his lessons to suit the students' skill levels and musical goals. He prepares material ahead of class and has a nice structured approach that I find helpful in developing a good feel for the piano. It's great that he focuses on important technicals like tempo, playing technique and theory, and his lessons are well-rounded, with just the right amount of time spent on each aspect. I like that he is flexible with both scheduling and the curriculum, and willing to tailor material to what I am interested in. He also helped me pick out an excellent piano within my budget, which was very helpful. Overall, a great experience, and definitely recommended!

Piano Lessons (for adults)

Credentials

Background Check

Michael Laster

FAQs

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
First I figure out what their needs and goals are as a musician in order to customize the lessons to fit their learning style and desired outcomes. Then I take one lesson at a time, moving at their pace, while thoroughly preparing for each lesson beforehand, to make sure none of their time is wasted. If the student is patient with themselves, progress is guaranteed.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
BA in Music, Magna Cum Laude, and have been playing guitar since middle school.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
I was recommended by several professors in college to help out fellow classmates struggling with theory. I have also given guitar lessons to friends throughout the years, so I have a wide range of experience with different learning styles.

Michael Laster

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