OUR STAFF

At Grisafi Music Institute (GMI), we offer one-on-one lessons with the most experienced teachers in the Philadelphia area.

We specialize in all styles of music including: Rock, Jazz, Blues, Classical, Country, Folk and Funk.

GARY GRISAFI

OWNER/PRINCIPAL GUITAR INSTRUCTOR

Gary Grisafi, owner and instructor has been teaching professionally for the past 30 years. He has taught at the Nelly Berman School of Music, Georges Music, Pats Music and privately. Gary has been performing and recording for the past 35 years with artists such as Bobby Rydell, Al Martino, Lee Andrews & The Hearts, Peter Erskin, Stewkey from the "NAZZ" and many well-known local bands. He has recorded and has worked as a studio musician in local recording studios. Gary studied music (Jazz Guitar) at the University of the Arts (Philadelphia College of the Performing Arts) and studied Guitar with Pat Martino, Ed Flanagan and Howard Herbert. He is co-author of two music instruction books.

 

 

NICHOLAS ZABOROWSKI

GUITAR INSTRUCTOR

Nicholas Zaborowski, has been teaching for two years as a private teacher and more recently at Grisafi Music Institute. Nick has been performing locally in Philadelphia since 2015 as a solo acoustic musician as well as in multiple bands. He is currently a Music Therapy student at Temple University, where he has studied with Craig Ebner, Mike Moreno, and Greg Kettinger. Nick is also a church musician and has played regularly at St. Jerome’s Church and Maternity BVM Church. Nick utilizes an individualized approach in which students of all levels can reach their full musical potential in order to become well-rounded musicians.

 

 

MIKE TALLEY

WOODWIND INSTRUCTOR

Mike has been playing Woodwinds for over 40 years. He has been teaching for over 25 years. Mike's initial playing experience was with the Philadelphia Mummers Stringband Division, most notably Ferko Stringband. He left Stringbands to play in a professional Big Band for 10 years. His focus the last few years has been teaching. Understanding the goals and intentions of his students is his primary concern. Reading music, theory, and improvisation are all areas Mike could help with. Young players to adults, all welcomed.

 

 

RACHEL CONRAD

VOICE, PIANO, FLUTE, UKULELE

"Rachel is a singer & multi-instrumentalist, originally from Fort Washington. She has been teaching music privately in Montgomery County for the last twenty years in voice, piano, beginner's guitar, bass guitar, flute, ukulele. She also has been performing in the tri-state area in cover bands, pit orchestras, choirs, wedding bands, and smaller ensembles professionally for the last 25 years. Although Rachel loves teaching classically in music theory & the technical aspects of music, her teaching style is relaxed and focused on the love & enjoyment of playing & creating music. Her strengths also include versatility with instruments, ear training, & vocal harmonizing. One of Rachel's missions is to help beginners develop enough skill early on to play simple tunes, which helps the student stay interested, gain momentum, and gradually progress comfortably into higher skill levels. Rachel's personality is high-energy, friendly, outgoing, and kind. She is especially supportive of beginners of all ages who want to try pursuing their dreams of learning how to sing & play instruments in front of an audience or privately. She is passionate about encouraging students to be confident in themselves and to have fun with music."

Give us a call today to discuss your needs and get expert advice. (215) 633 - 1460