Coach vs. Instrument Teacher

Knowing the difference between a coach and an instrument teacher can save you a lot of money in the long term.

An instrument teacher teaches you how to play your instrument on a basic level and is an expert trained on your instrument.    From the perspective of Jazz,  a performance or improv coach is someone who is trained on his or her instrument plus keyboard and also has expertise in areas such as harmony, performance, improvisation and composition.   A Jazz coach can work with you regardless of your instrument.   An instrument teacher is limited to his or her instrument.  In general, students will usually start with instrumental instructors then move on to improv coaches.  An intermediate level student will be more likely to study with both at the same time.

Since my background is in piano, organ and keyboards, I am an instrumental teacher for keyboard instruments, but an improv coach for all others including brass, reed, bass, vocal and string (including guitar.)

If you play a non-keyboard instrument and wonder if studying with a Jazz coach such as myself is appropriate, remember that your first lesson is free, so you'll be able to go for a test drive from the get go.   I also consult with and pre-screen students prior to the first meeting. ​