Welcome to Jake’s HarmonyTutor Hub! Over the last 15 years, I’ve had the pleasure of developing musical abilities and strengthening academic skills with hundreds of students from a wide variety of backgrounds and skill levels. In creating the “Hub”, I am pleased to offer both in-home and virtual music lessons focusing on piano, guitar, bass and percussion and K – 8 academic tutoring in ELA, Math, Science and Social Studies. Please take a look around to learn more about my qualifications, background and services offered.  

About

Music and teaching have been an integral part of my life since childhood. In fact, looking back, it seems inevitable that I would have the opportunity to share these two passions within my community and beyond. Watching both my mother and grandfather teach throughout my childhood helped to establish the profession as a noble and important pursuit in my eyes. 

Beginning at the age of 5, I took piano, drum, guitar and bass lessons all the way up through college. During this time, I had the opportunity to study with many highly esteemed teachers, including Philadelphia music icon Gerald Veasley and former dean of the Manhattan School of Music Stephen Jay. I’ve observed their mastery and included something from all of them in creating my own “teacher voice” over the years. After touring for many years with my own ensemble, I’m proud to bring all of these experiences into the lesson room and confidently offer instruction for students of all ages and skill levels. 

My status as an established educator in the Philadelphia area came in late 2020, as I completed my Masters Degree in Education at Rosemont College, earning Academic Achievement via the Dean’s List, and receiving my Pennsylvania certification in general education for grades Pk – 6. In 2024, I completed the AIM Institute’s Pathways to Literacy Course. This range of training has given me the ability to instruct students in all of the academic content areas: Math, ELA, Science and Social Studies.

For the last 5 years, I have worked at both Manoa Elementary in Haverford and Penn Wynne Elementary in Lower Merion. I’ve also worked closely with the TGR (Tiger Woods) Foundation as they prepare to open their new Learning Lab in Philadelphia. Along the way, I’ve been happy to offer a wide range of in-home tutoring options, including test prep, reading instruction and math intervention. My skills have been honed with the fantastic tutoring organization, Teacher Time To Go, which was founded by my graduate college supervisor, Jennifer Shemtob. 

Services

MUSIC LESSONS

Focus includes general instrument proficiency, as well as audition and ensemble preparations.
  • Piano – beginner / intermediate
  • Drums & Percussion – beginner / intermediate
  • Guitar – all levels
  • Bass – all levels

ACADEMIC TUTORING

A full range of 1:1 tutoring options for young learners to deepen their skills in the essential academic subject areas.
  • K – 8 ELA, Math, Science and Social Studies
  • Wilson Reading System
  • Test Prep (ISEE, SSAT, PSAT)
  • Executive Functioning
  • Digital Learning Platforms (Dreambox, Zearn, IXL, Prodigy)

Testimonials

  • “

    Jake has been a wonderful piano teacher for my daughters, Yasmeen and Hala. He engages them effectively, allowing each to progress at their own pace. His patience and encouraging style have greatly boosted their confidence and interest in music. Watching their progress over the past two years has been truly remarkable. I highly recommend him!

    Albert
    Bryn Mawr, PA (PIANO)
  • “

    Jake has been a great addition to our family for inspiring a love of music in our children! Jake is so patient with explaining music terms/concepts and has a knack for making his lessons click — especially since we have been doing Zoom lessons. Jake has learned how to adapt his teaching style without being physically present — a pretty impressive task to accomplish!

    Jennie
    Philadelphia, PA (PIANO)
  • “

    I’ve had the pleasure of taking lessons from Jake for about a year now […] he is one the most attentive and easy to work with teachers I have worked with in my ten years of playing music. Whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for multiple years, Jake’s musical prowess and exceptional teaching skills are sure to help you out

    Beckett
    Washington, DC (ELECTRIC BASS)
  • “

    I have been taking drum lessons from Jake for a few years, having never before played an instrument. He’s a wonderful teacher and great musician. Jake is patient, easy going, fun to work with and always brings new ideas to our sessions. He strikes a fine balance between being encouraging and continuing to challenge me. I would recommend Jake for beginners and more advanced musicians alike.

    David
    Wayne, PA (DRUMS)
  • “

    Jake cultivates a true love of music in my 7-year-old. I have seen my son pick up the piano and love it with a passion he didn’t have with his previous teacher. Jake personalizes the lesson based on my son’s personality and provides him with songs unique to what he is interested in. I can tell it is not a cookie-cutter experience, which makes my kid feel pretty special and also excited to learn! Jake is professional and personable, a perfect combination. I highly recommend Jake!

    Ricki
    Ardmore, PA (PIANO)
  • “

    Jake worked with my children, ages 14 and 11, over the summer to help keep their skills current. He specifically worked on math skills, writing process, and executive functioning with my older child and provided special education support for my younger child. We were looking for a Wilson certified teacher to assist my younger child with reading, writing, and spelling. Jake is calm, patient, and took the time to get to know each child in order to build trust and establish a positive rapport to support the learning environment. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a kind and effective teacher to assist children who would benefit from a little extra learning support – my children enjoyed working with Jake.

    Brenda
    Wayne, PA (TUTORING)
  • “

    Jake has been working with my 5th grade son for a few months, with a focus on math skills. His grades have improved one whole letter grade and he is showing a lot more confidence with math. Jake has a great rapport with my son and makes lessons enjoyable and engaging.

    Marissa
    Paoli, PA (TUTORING)
  • “

    Jake has a unique and special style of connecting with our son that both supports and challenges our son to grow as a musician. He truly sees our son, his learning style, and his interests and finds music and teaching methods that connect with him individually. Jake has formed an incredible bond with our son inspiring him to love not just the instruments, but also a variety of music styles.

    Jenn
    Bryn Mawr, PA (GUITAR / BASS)
  • “

    A great tutor! Very flexible. Jake is very kind and patient with his students and has a wonderful ability to relate to his students.

    Talia
    Ardmore, PA (TUTORING)
  • “

    I cannot say enough good things about working with Jake. Both my son and daughter work with him and they look forward to seeing him each week. He has taken the time to get to know their interests and utilizes that information throughout the sessions which makes learning fun for them! Most importantly, he has helped to build their confidence in areas that they have felt were weaknesses!

    Lindsay
    Ardmore, PA (TUTORING)
  • “

    Jake is a tremendous music teacher. He teaches many different musical instruments, which is incredible, in itself. He has a way of connecting with his students to extract their best. He meets each student where he/she is and encourages them in a fun and gentle manner. Most importantly, he inculcates a love and passion for playing music which is what our children appreciate most. The concerts he put together to showcase the children’s efforts are well executed. We are grateful to our friends for introducing our family to Jake. Simply put, Jake is the best!!

    Monisha
    Gladwynne, PA (PIANO AND GUITAR)

MUSIC FAQ

What age does my child need to be to take lessons?

The average age to start a child is six. The main criteria are that the child knows his/her alphabet and can sit still for 20 minutes.

Should I bring my own instrument to lessons?

Yes. You must have an instrument that you are comfortable with.
You should bring your Instrument to your lesson each week.
(Amps can be provided for electric instruments)
The only exceptions are with keyboard/piano and drums (you need to bring only drumsticks).

Where are the lessons held?

Lessons can be provided at your home, at or my in-home studio (Philadelphia Suburbs)

How long will I need to take lessons?

The period of time that a student is enrolled in the program varies.
The more a person wishes to learn the longer they will take lessons.
The basic fundamentals can take about three months to learn on average, however; music is a science that can be studied for a lifetime.

Will I need to purchase any additional materials?

I generally require at least one book for students to use.
In addition, there may be other accessories the student will want in order to progress within his/her studies.
(Example: capo, tuner, strap, songbooks, videos)

Will I learn to read music?

Yes. You will learn to read music and some music theory.
Remember music is a language, just like English, except the musical alphabet, goes only from A to G.

If my schedule changes, how difficult will it be to change my lesson time?

Students that are already in the program will have the first choice at new times as they become available.
If your schedule changes, please let me know and I will give you top priority in moving if an alternative time is available.

Do you have any other activities for students, such as recitals?

From time to time we try to offer our students the opportunity to “show off” and at the same time give them the experience of playing in public and with other people. We have put students in local parades, had “jam Nights”, recitals, and many other events.

I already know a little about my instrument, do I have to start at the beginning?

No. I evaluate each student to determine their level of understanding, and then tailor each students plan of study. The most important part of taking lessons is learning to play.

I’m not sure if the instrument I already own is good enough, how will I know?

I will be more than happy to inspect your instrument to see if it is suitable for instruction.
(For your convenience, please do this before your lessons are scheduled.)

My child is homeschooled, do you offer morning times?

Yes. Lesson times are not regulated by after school hours. We will try to accommodate your schedule as much a possible.

How will I know my child is progressing?

I am always willing to talk to parents about their children. Please feel free to ask anything about their progress, and know that I am willing to give you periodic updates.

How long are lessons?

Lessons are offered in 30, 45 and 60 minute increments.

How much notice do I need to give before canceling a lesson?

Understanding that unexpected events happen, we generally maintain a 24 hour cancellation policy.

TUTORING FAQ

Do you have a physical location?

Tutoring sessions can be scheduled at your home, my studio office or virtually via Zoom.

How do I make an appointment?

In general, clients prefer to keep a consistent date and time each week. However, in some cases, lesson can be scheduled on a week-to-week basis, typically via text.

Are you certified?

I currently hold a Pennsylvania Pk – 6 Instructional 1 Certification.

How do I pay?

Payments can be completed through a variety of methods; including cash, check, Venmo, PayPal and Square. Payments are typically made per session, however some clients prefer to pay once a month.

Do I need to purchase anything for the sessions?

Included with our package are all of the materials necessary for the sessions. If your child is in K-4th grade they will receive a binder and all of the supplies/materials needed for the sessions. For our middle and high school students, we can offer guidance on specific materials to be used during the sessions and where to purchase them.

What is your cancellation policy?

Due to the high demand of these sessions, we ask that you please respect our cancellation policy. We know that unexpected situations arise, but we encourage you to call right away if you need to change the day/time of your session. Please let us know 8 hours beforehand for no penalty. If you must cancel less than 8 hours prior to your scheduled session, you will be charged ½ of the session’s fee.

Gallery

CONTACT

Jake@SwiftTechnique.com

Office: 610.268.6849

Philadelphia Suburbs

View my Teachers Pay Teachers page