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.

 

 

LEON JORDAN Jr.

TRUMPET INSTRUCTOR

Leon Jordan Jr has a full scholarships bachelors degree from University of the Arts 2010. He has done lectures at Kimmel Center, Settlement Music school, and Temple University. He is a two time clef club poll winner. Grammy nominated member of the Captain Black Jazz Big band. He as performed with Earth Wind Fire, Aretha Franklin, Boys to Men, The Roots among many others. Leon has played Jazz in Major Jazz fest and clubs all over the country to date. Leon is seriously trained in Classical, Jazz, Latin and commercial music extensively.

 

 

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."

 

 

LISA VanHELDORF

PIANO AND VOICE, MUSICAL THEATER

Began her music and theater careers in grade school - performing both in school productions and community theater - going on to receive performance degrees from New England Conservatory and Notre Dame. After grad school. Lisa started a professional theater company in her home state before moving to the east coast.


Lisa worked in and out of New York City, both singing, acting and directing professionally and became a choral conductor. Moving to the Philadelphia area, she continues all of those pursuits. Lisa is the Founder and Artistic Director of Ambler Station Singers, Vocalist with Turning Point Duo and Quartet, Director of Traditional Music at Media Presbyterian Church

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