Teaching
I take considerable pride in my students' advancement on their instruments. Below is a sampling of success stories from a few of my students:
"I started taking lessons from David in 2003. I had been writing songs for a while and one day just completely hit a wall. I realized that I needed more musical depth to my songs and that I also needed to strengthen my guitar playing. David helped me accomplish my goals without compromising how he wanted to teach me, which turned out to be the best thing that could have happened for my playing. He taught me how to read music, understand basic music theory, and how to play the hell out of a Hendrix solo. I’ve learned so much that I am also teaching a little and recording my first album. David is a great friend, an amazing guitar player and a wonderful teacher. "
Douglas Lee
"When I started studying with David Joel I was not sure where I was, or where I needed to go musically. Years of lessons from incompetent teachers at music stores had left me frustrated and confused about learning to really play music. Before I even began my lessons, David first got an assessment of my goals, abilities, and musical interests, which he used to develop a plan of study that would suit my individual needs. His teaching experience and formal education really shined through from the very first lesson, where he explained the steps I could take to reach my goals, and then began putting me on the right path. Over the two years that I studied with David Joel, I have grown more than I could imagine. With his help, I learned how to play the things I wanted to and take part in multiple musical groups that might have left me embarrassed and confused before. He also helped me successfully audition for Rowan University's music program, and has given me the preparation that I need for an optimal college experience. I recommend David Joel to anyone with the desire to play music and I am confident that he will be just as patient, helpful, and inspirational for you as he was for me."
John Lipartito
"Before studying with David, I had been learning guitar primarily from books, DVDs and informal lessons with friends. I tried taking private lessons with four other teachers at prominent Philadelphia music stores, but none of them gave me anything that I couldn't get from the books. That changed when I began studying with David. During my first three months with him, I improved more rapidly than I ever had before. My right hand became more confident and flexible, and my flatpicking improved enormously. David doesn't take shortcuts, but he gets better (and faster!) results because he gives you a solid foundation in all aspects of musicianship. It really is important to have a teacher when studying guitar, and David is the right one for any guitarist regardless of skill level. You will definitely get your money's worth."
Matthew Seneca
"I studied with David for a year and found him to be a patient and very thorough teacher. I highly recommend him!"
Bob Kasprzak
"I began my lessons with David with no musical experience at all. Because of David's patient and positive guidance, I am now able to read music, recognize chord forms, and even play through songs. During my three years of lessons, he has met my expectations and brought me to where I wanted to be musically. His musical and life experiences show through in his teaching, and the way he approaches each lesson. David is passionate about what he does and knows how to tailor to each of his students' abilities. Over the years, I have not only developed a musical relationship with David but a friendship as well. I would recommend David to anyone who is in search of lessons."
Robert Kaznica
"My time with David has been truly incredible. Prior to our first lesson, I was at the point where my playing had reached a plateau. My growth was a flat line, mostly because I kept stumbling over the same obstacles and I had no direction or purpose for my playing. That all changed when I began my studies with David. After the first phone call with David, I was convinced that he wasn’t just focused on getting another customer but was really interested in my needs as a student. David takes great pride in his teaching and really relishes the accomplishments of his students. His attention to detail is something that separates him from other teachers I have worked with in the past. He doesn’t skip or skimp on material, which would otherwise leave gapping holes in one’s development. Instead it’s a brick by brick building process where he leaves no stone unturned. As a result of his teaching methods, I underwent a complete turnaround in a very short period of time. My playing abilities rapidly improved over a few short months and more importantly I had established goals and a direction for my playing. He always keeps things fresh to spark the student’s interest and is willing to do whatever it takes to help that student achieve their goals. Working with David has been such a worthwhile experience and investment. I only wish that I had more time to study with him. In fact, he is one of the best teachers I’ve ever had and I’m truly grateful for everything he’s helped me to accomplish. Thanks David! "
Craig Kasper
"For seven years, I would look forward to every Tuesday night when I would have my bass guitar lesson with David. Over the years, I have come to know David very well and I have learned so much from him. Kind, patient, and supportive, David would always assert his unconditional encouragement as I would drill lines or pieces of music that I would be struggling with. David would accompany the music I was studying by playing other selections of music that related historically or theoretically to the piece I was working on. I have learned so much about music theory, music playing, and life during my time with David. With all of his music education and experience from playing around the world, it only makes sense that he could supply this additional support and knowledge. He is an excellent teacher, a brilliant musician, and an inspiring mentor. I would not have traded my experience with him for anything."
Jon Aronchick
"My name is Greg and David Joel is my friend. He was my guitar instructor for 3 years or so. I missed about 4 lessons and made up every one of them. Now, I am not a type A personality, but David offered to me a creative opportunity I could not pass up. Within that time I grew as a person foremost and then became a musician, a novice I was. A novice I would not stay. Between the Flats and Sharps, a language of responsibility and attention is developed when learning with David. You will never be confused or feel stupid, and he will always sound better than you. Because he is such a beautiful player, no matter how long you want to travel theroad he will be your guide, true mastery. Thank you, friend. I am now writing lyrics, tunes, reading music, and above else enjoying music and life on a higher level."
Greg Pierman
"I have been taking guitar lessons for 5 years; David has been my
instructor for the last 2 years. David has the right amount of
structure and flexibility in his lessons to keep a student moving
forward yet allowing the student to control some of the direction. I
am extremely happy with my progress to date and would recommend him to
anyone that is serious about music/guitar. You can get a Berkley
quality education in Northeast Philly; that is hard to beat."
Brian Skinner
"My name is Mike and I've been taken guitar lessons with David Joel for just about a year now.
Before I started I wanted to find a teacher that would be patient with me & not just rush through the lessons.
I'm glad I chose David for a teacher.He will answer any question you have for him, & explain it until you fully understand.
I plan on continuing my lessons with him, until I'm ready to go on my own."
Mike Hogan
"The passion and intensity that emanates from David
Joel's playing and teaching can be felt by his
students. Though I've been with him only a short time,
I've already made drastic gains in regards to theory
comprehension, soloing, and improvisation. He has
expanded my musical horizons as well as increased my
love for the instrument. Somehow, he was able to
tailor a teaching style around my individual goals and
method of learning. David Joel is willing to take me
as far with the guitar as I am willing to work and go.
I am lucky to have found him."
Eric Woods
"I have been taking lessons from David for over a year, and would gladly recommend him to a friend or family member. My playing has improved dramatically, and I just plain enjoy the lessons. David is a very good teacher - he has great patience but also knows when to push. I feel confident that I can take it as far as I would like to, at a pace that is comfortable to me. Gotta go practice... "
Stephen Barnes
"One item on my bucket list was “to learn to play the guitar”. Fortunately for me, I found David Joel. I have been taking lessons from David for over 18 months. I have learned more than I ever expected – about music, the guitar, and myself.
David is an excellent teacher. He has years of experience playing and teaching. He also has talent, knowledge, skill, and understanding, not to mention patience and a sense of humor.
By teaching his students to read music, as well as to play, he gives them the tools to continue learning indefinitely. In addition, to learning to appreciate all kinds of music, and the guitar as an instrument, I have learned to enjoy the process of learning.
Thank you, David. "
Mary Young
"A little over two years ago I decided to try to learn to play guitar, having just retired. I found David's ad in the yellow pages. I called and it began. The lesson last a very fast hour and David makes you feel comfortable. I never feel stressed or nervous. With David's teaching methods and an honest effort by any student it can begin for anyone. There is no quick way to learn. If you are serious about learning to play guitar, and willing to practice, David Joel's Studio is the right way to go. It has been and still is a pleasure."
Tom Gavin
At that point I never knew how to read music, and six years later, I swear by learning to read, no matter what instrument one plays. Aside from the exercises and theory, just learning to read music took my playing to a brand new level.
The phrase, "pays attention to detail" is somewhat trite. However, David is the epitome of that notion. When striving for perfection, it's absolutely necessary to have someone other than yourself to push you to be better at what you do, and provide support and encouragement when you have things right.Lastly, I've found that David is an excellent mentor, whether he means to be one or not. As musicians and human beings, we all go through tough times. Aside from being life for some of us, Music is a medium for life. An instructor with vast life experience like David, who is willing to share his thoughts and his ear, is very difficult to come by, and this is what sets him apart from any college professor I've ever had.
David will lead you through your musical studies, but one's success almost entirely depends on their effort, time, and willingness."
Jeff Sheerin
