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
Music is a very personal and individual thing. Whether I'm teaching or performing, I try to tailor what I'm doing to your preferences.
With teaching, I can come to you online wherever you live. I often teach multiple family members - sometimes whole families take lessons! The curriculum I use is designed around teaching the basics of playing and reading music, but with lots of choices and flexibility for each student. I hold recitals in people's homes- students get the experience of preparing a piece and performing, but in a more relaxed atmosphere. I also encourage participation in NYSSMA festivals for piano students and help students prepare well, so that they have a positive experience.
With performing, I love to play music that moves people. I often take requests- it means so much to people to hear a song that they love. And I'm often told that my original songs are very meaningful- that I've really captured a feeling or a moment in time. To me, that's what it's all about.
I am so very grateful that I get to do something that I love for my job! It's so rewarding- whether I'm helping a student learn a new concept, or watching someone's face light up when I play a song that they love. I bring a lot of joy to what I do, and that joy is reflected back to me.
Overview
Hired 24 times
Serves Red Hook, NY
Background checked
1 employee
30 years in business
Business hours
SunClosedMon9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, and Venmo.
Customers rated this pro highly for responsiveness, value, and professionalism.
Exceptional 5.0
10 reviews
5
100%
4
0%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Nicholas A.
Aug 31, 2020
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I've tried four different guitar teachers in the past. Their process was either too simple (just give me tabs and have me play chords nonstop) or too complex (here is a song with notes, memorize the notes and give it a whirl and you will be good eventually).
Cathy is a teacher at heart, with a professional performance career to also back it up. Beyond playing at various venues, she knows how to intuitively tailor a lesson plan to you, and can quickly adjust as needed. Her lessons are an absolute steal, and my lessons with her are both challenging and a refreshing time of the week that I look forward to. She also plays various instruments, and knows how to break down concepts so that newbies young and old can grok and learn them.
Cathy rocks, press the button and get lessons with her.
Attached is photo of me pointing at you to start lessons already! Note the newly callused fingertip :P
Details: 26 - 44 years old • No formal training • No, cannot read music • Acoustic • Folk • Country • Yes, the student has an instrument • 45 minutes • Remotely (phone or internet)
Guitar Lessons
Brian B.
May 11, 2022
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Cathy is a teacher, she makes me feel like I’m learning and succeeding in every lesson. She has tailored her lessons to my pace and skill! I can’t wait for my next lesson each and every week.
Details: 26 - 44 years old • No formal training; some self-taught experience • No, cannot read music • Acoustic • What the teacher recommends • Rock • Folk • Yes, the student has an instrument • 60 minutes • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc. • Remotely (phone or internet)
Guitar Lessons
Tammy C.
Jul 29, 2024
•
Hired on Thumbtack
We love Cathy. She is very patient with our daughter. When she doesn’t understand something Cathy will teach/say it differently so that she understands better.
Details: 6 - 9 years old • No formal training • No, cannot read music • Acoustic • What the teacher recommends • No, but the student is planning to purchase an instrument • 45 minutes • Remotely (phone or internet)
Guitar Lessons
Caroline M.
May 26, 2020
Awesome teacher! My kids have studied piano and guitar with Cathy for 4 years and we couldn’t be happier! She keeps the kids engaged and encourages them. She has even inspired one to be a future rock ‘n’ roller!
Sheila B.
Mar 24, 2024
Cathy is an excellent teacher. I am an older student playing guitar. I have never played a string instrument in my life, but have always wanted to play guitar. I’ve been a student of Cathy’s the last 2+ years on-line. Cathy is patient, encouraging and works with my schedule. I’m grateful for her expertise and so glad I found her. She’s awesome!
Credentials
Background Check
Catherine Young
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Lessons are $30/half hour (a little extra if more travel is involved) plus the cost of books/music.
Performances depend on the type of gig (wedding, party, bar/restaurant) and the length of time you want me to play.
Custom songs for weddings, anniversaries, etc. start at $500, and include a simple recording. Prices for live performance of the song, or more elaborate recordings are negotiable.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Meet them and address their fears or concerns (some people are a little nervous.) Have them show me what they know, and talk about past experiences. Ask questions about what they want to accomplish.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
While I do not have a degree in music ( I was an education major, and then a business major in college,) I have over 20 years of teaching and performing experience.
