Guitar

Mike Nagy

I have been teaching guitar, bass, and music theory & composition at Raritan Music Center for 20 years.

I began studying the saxophone at 9, choral singing at 12, and the guitar at 15. My interest in music began when I was given my first record player as I spent much of my free time listening to whatever recordings I could get my hands on. My family was happy to supply me with hand-me-down records after hearing my only single, Elvis Presley's "Hound Dog," repeatedly for two weeks straight.

I have a Bachelor of the Arts in Music with a minor in Psychology from Rutgers University. I have had too many influential teachers throughout my studies to even begin to list, and I have learned something from each of them. That includes everything from essential lessons on the proper way to hold an instrument to the abstract understanding of silence's role in music. Still, some of the most useful lessons were the most practical such as why I should have an additional hobby or what I can and can't write off on my taxes.

The effects of music and those who taught it to me were profound in my development and shaped the person that I am today. In addition to the enjoyment it brought me, music gave me a sense of discipline, focus, and patience that I strongly believe I would not have otherwise. I have always been interested in passing those lessons on to others as I believe many of them are as valuable to a professional performer as they are to a hobbyist.

I have an extensive music collection that I've been trying to consolidate for years. The list is too long to even start. I also enjoy delicious food and good stories, and I love to complain.

I write and record music with several bands and artists. Music production has become a large focus for me outside of teaching.

I also enjoy listening to countless composers of music from Beethoven to The Beatles. My favorite styles include symphonic music and rock from the 50s through today. I have a soft spot for 20th century art music and noise rock. I enjoy playing classical, rock, and folk music, and I enjoy teaching anything that inspires someone to play.