Nicole Cognato

Nicole grew up in a small town on Long Island, New York. She had an active young mind with a love for music and rhythm. Luckily, she began her musical journey with private piano lessons at age five. Having lessons this young certainly helped her understand the student experience of learning how to use your skills and discipline to be successful as a musician. While receiving training on piano, she joined her elementary school orchestra in the 3rd grade and quickly soared with violin. During this period, Nicole began learning music theory and the art of reading music. As a fourth grader, Nicole would go on to conduct and tune every instrument in her orchestra during rehearsal. She always competed and won many NYSMA competitions for violin while attending music seminars and workshops. It was then that her teacher realized she had a gift. Nicole continued with piano lessons and began teaching herself guitar. Later, after college, she bought herself a drum set and began to teach herself drums. As an adult, Nicole studied to become an elementary teacher and worked in the New York State School Districts for over five years. Shortly after receiving her master's degree for Literacy Education, Nicole decided to attempt to share her passion for music. In 2007, Nicole opened a music studio in Holbrook, New York. Here, she refined her music teaching skills while establishing Nicolex Inc. Music Island as a leading source of quality music education. Her summer traveling music program allowed her students to experience live performances as well as create music groups with peers with the same passion for music. Nicole now resides in Tampa, Florida with hopes to spread her business as well as the joy of music to children and adults across the country. When she is not teaching, she is the drummer and band leader for a local Rock band. Needless to say, she understands the importance that music has had in her life and wishes to ignite that passion in other music lovers.

*** Lesson Details *** My teaching style is best labeled as kind but firm. I take my job very seriously and want wholeheartedly for my students to have music as a part of their life, not just a part of their day. I love to laugh and have fun but I will definitely expect my students to practice and complete any homework I assign and be prepared for the following lesson. Simply stated, music is fun and the love of my life, but if I still practice, you will as well. Otherwise, I always believe in teaching songs my students are interested in and will expand their musical skills. My experience as a public school teacher has enhanced my sense of reading between the lines and finding personalized instruction for every student. Therefore, I always differentiate lessons to suit my students' learning style and song preferences. We will cover all of the fundamental tools every musician needs in order to be successful. My specialty is teaching a variety of instruments. I play Drums, Guitar, Bass, Piano, Ukulele, and I can sing as well. So, if one instrument is not for you, I can teach you something different without a problem. Long story short, friends, you are in good hands. **Note: There is a strict 24 HOUR CANCELLATION POLICY. If you choose to cancel a lesson, on the day of the lesson, you will be charged.

*** Specialties *** Rock, Blues, and Classical genres for Piano, Guitar, Drums. Vocally, I specialize in R&B, Soul, Motown, Broadway, Pop, Top 100 and alternative/Hard Rock. I will adapt to your needs.