Lessons
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Virtual Lessons
Russo Music is proud to offer personalized virtual lessons, available in the safety and comfort of your own home! While virtual music lessons may be new to some of you, rest assured that our teachers have worked hard to develop engaging curriculums to further enhance the students virtual learning experience without compromise.
Lessons are offered via Skype, Zoom and FaceTime—ensuring both safety and reliable video connection.
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Lessons FAQ
Are virtual lessons really as effective?
Yes! In fact, many benefit from the ease of scheduling and comfort of being home. Some students have also reported an increase in practice time as many families are home more often than ever! Through our virtual format, our passionate teachers are able to deliver the same level of support, inspiration, and information as in-person.
How much do virtual lessons cost?
Virtual lessons are priced at $125.00 per month, which includes one 30-minute lesson per week, at the same time and day each week.
What do I need to start virtual lessons?
A smart phone or tablet and stable internet connection are all that is required! If you have any questions specific to the instrument the student will be learning, please contact us directly!
Do you offer trial lessons?
We do! We offer a $35 virtual half hour lesson to ensure it’s a good fit for you before committing to a full month.
When will in-person lessons resume?
In-person lessons are postponed at this time. With the current size of our lesson studios, we do not feel we can safely provide in-person lessons due to the current circumstances. We are looking forward to a time when we can resume offering in-person lessons in addition to our virtual format, and we will be sure to announce that as soon as it becomes available.
Contact Us
Finding the right learning environment can be difficult. That is why we are dedicated to explaining what makes the Russo Music Lessons program so unique. Have any questions? Feel free to reach out here:
609.888.0620
Lessons@russomusic.com
Meet our Instructors
Alaina Stampe
Voice and Piano
Teaching Since:
2019
Genres Taught:
Classical, Musical Theatre, Pop
Notable Accomplishments:
Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Music
12 years of Classical Piano Training
6 years of Classical/Musical Theatre Vocal Training
Recipient of the Music Fest Grand Prix Award for Voice (Performed at Carnegie Hall (2016)
Recipient of the Music Fest Grand Prize Award for Piano (2015)
Recipient of the Music Fest Grand Prize Award for Piano (2014)
Rutgers High School Musical Theatre Academy (2016-2017)
Music Background:
I can't recall a single part of my life in which music wasn't involved. From my early childhood until now, I've been involved in musical theatre (both in the cast and in music direction), church choir, Community Christian Choir, auditioned chamber ensembles, musical theatre summer camp counseling, accompanying youth performances on piano, and music directing ensembles, all while privately training in classical piano and voice. I'm currently studying music and psychology with the goal of going into music therapy to help emphasize the importance of learning, growing, and healing through music.
Favorite Band(s):
Lady Gaga, The Jonas Brothers, Kelly Clarkson
Favorite Piece of Gear:
Tea with Honey
Fun Fact:
I volunteer at a children's hospital and visit patients dressed as Princess Anna from Frozen!
Non-Musical Hobbies:
I enjoy reading, swimming, and spending time with my friends, family, and two pets, Belle and Tiger
Dakota Bethke
Drums
Teaching Since:
2016
Genres Taught:
All Genres
Notable Accomplishments:
Created a very unique and modern teaching style and curriculum.
I can teach anyone their first drum beat in less than 15 minutes (I actually guarantee this!)
Music Background:
I started playing drums when I was thirteen. I spent 5 years practicing (at least) 4 hours a day and studying under some of my heroes. Since then, I've toured internationally with rock bands and I've also played in coffee shops with jazz groups. In addition to live performance, I've spent a lot of time performing professional studio work.
Favorite Band(s):
Mark Guiliana Jazz Quartet, Animals as Leaders, Snarky Puppy
Favorite Piece of Gear:
Ludwig Vistalite
Fun Fact:
I wasn't named after a state.
Non-Musical Hobbies:
If I'm not playing drums, I'm playing Virtual Reality games!
Daniel Mosovich
Guitar, Bass, and Ukulele
Teaching Since:
2008
Genres Taught:
All Genres
Notable Accomplishments:
Degree in Music
Music Background:
I've been playing my main instrument (guitar) since I was 5. I was very lucky to have my father inspire me musically as I grew up. Eventually, at the age of 12, I decided to take guitar lessons and study with the late Frank Hipp. After a year or 2, I changed teachers and studied with James Kelly (amazing Jazz player). With him I studied music theory extensively and learned how to apply it to my guitar playing. Throughout my musical career, I've been in multiple bands and experienced multiple styles of music.
Favorite Band(s):
The Beatles, Jeff Beck, Clapton, Hendrix, Johnny Winter, Queens of the Stone Age, George Benson, Herbie Hancock, Robert Glasper, The Contortionists, Led Zeppelin
Favorite Piece of Gear:
Marshall JCM2000 50W head, Fender and Gibson guitars
Fun Fact:
I'm really….BATMAN!
Non-Musical Hobbies:
I love staying physically active!
John Spodaryk
Guitar, Piano, Bass, and Ukulele
Teaching Since:
1989
Genres Taught:
All Genres
Notable Accomplishments:
Berklee Colege of Music: Summer Sessions 1990-1993
Bachelors of Music - Jazz Studies, Theory/Composition, Musicology/Music Education
Masters of Music Education/Performance 1994-1996
Music Background:
My teaching method is based on 30 plus years of Academic and “Real World” experience that has been tested and refined by thousands of hours in lessons with countless beginner through advanced students. I work hard at maintaining a casual approach that's fun and motivating at every stage of learning, and satisfying for all my students. I have found this to be the most enjoyable and effective way to teach students to realize their own personal goals, regardless of skill level, age, genre, or stylistic interests. My commitment is to your progress!
Fun Fact:
I have performed with Alice Cooper, Cheap Trick, and many more!
Michael Macchia
Guitar, Bass, and Music Theory
Teaching Since:
1993
Genres Taught:
Blues, Rock, Jazz, Country, Classical
Notable Accomplishments:
Bucks County Community College with Studies in Jazz Theory, Harmony, and Theory
Graduate of Musician's Institute (Hollywood, CA) with Studies in Jazz, Blues, and Rock Performance
Settlement Music School with Studies in Classical Guitar and Arrangement
Master Classes with Steve Giordano on Jazz Guitar (University of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA)
Music Background:
I have studied guitar all of my life and I have taught in vaious establishments in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Attending Musicians Institue was the greatest experience of my musical studies. Our teachers were all the tip studio musicians in Los Angeles as well as the top players of their styles in the world. Some of my teachers were Pat Martino, Robben Ford, Stephen Morris, and Larry Carlton.
Favorite Band(s):
Steely Dan, Eagles, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones
Favorite Piece of Gear:
Gibson Les Paul Standard Guitar
Fun Fact:
I love to joke and I have a strong sense of humor.
Non-Musical Hobbies:
I really enjoy sports!
Our Story
Founded in 1960 by Lucy and Stephen Russo, Russo Music has been committed to providing a fun and exciting experience for students of all ages and skill levels. Russo Music has been a community presence for over 60 years having taught generations of families in the Hamilton area and beyond. From the beginner to the seasoned vet, our instructors are ready to teach any student and create a unique teaching curriculum designed specifically to get them where they want to be and to have fun doing it. We hope to honor the tradition that Mr. and Mrs. Russo started by continuing to grow the love for music in our community.
