If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
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
10 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
Services offered
Interested musical styles
Guitar type
Acoustic
Electric
Work location
I travel to my customers
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
28 reviews
5
100%
4
0%
3
0%
2
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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
Kurt K.
Jan 13, 2017
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Hired on Thumbtack
I had my first lesson with Michael and first of all he was very friendly and welcoming. Over the course of the lesson we talked about what my goals are and what level of skills I already possessed to determine the further course of lessons to achieve an optimal learning process while also having fun by including the songs I'd like to play into his lessons :)
Guitar Lessons (for adults)
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)
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
Stephanie K.
Mar 4, 2018
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Michael is an attentive and highly knowledgeable teacher. He knows the fretboard like the back of his hand and he knows how to share his deep musical understanding so that learning is all active. It’s encouraging when you can play together and make a great sound, and he always gives the opportunity to do this. Furthermore, he's a great guy to boot, with whom I can discuss music theory, culture, etc. I give him the highest recommendation. You will not be disappointed with him as guitar teacher ! - Adrian, high school student
Details: 14 - 17 years old • No, cannot read music • No formal training; some self-taught experience • Acoustic • Rock • Folk • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • Willing to work around teacher's schedule • Conducting initial research • The guitar teacher travels to me
Guitar Lessons
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.
