Play the music you love built on technical foundations that last.
What is a discovery lesson?
Let's get to know each other through music. We'll talk about the artists you connect with most and what we can learn from them as musicians. If you have any musical background we can discuss the joys and challenges of your music journey so far. We might play some rhythm games or try an instrument you've never played before. If this is your first time playing an instrument we will answer any questions you might have and go over some fundamentals. Most importantly, we're going to have fun!
I’m Joe
Joe Nagel was raised by a music-loving family right here in Long Beach. He developed a keen interest in a variety of genres, including jazz, classical, blues, hip hop, rock, bluegrass, and world music. The guitar became his preferred instrument in high school when he played in local bands and began writing songs of his own. In college he earned a bachelor’s degree in music, studying composition, theory, and orchestration. Joe has been teaching music for over 15 years to people of all ages and abilities and loves to help his students discover their talents and passions.
learn
to
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learn to play the music you love to
Lessons & Programs
One-on-one 30, 45, or 60 minute lessons for all skill levels and ages.
Instruments include electric/acoustic guitar, piano/keyboard, electric bass, banjo, mandolin, ukulele, drum set, and djembe/hand drumming.
Offered in-studio, although Zoom or in-home lessons may be arranged for special circumstances.
Private lessons
Hour-long, drop-in jam nights three times a week.
Two beginner sessions and one intermediate session.
Group jam sessions
Regular music showcases for students to get comfortable and enjoy performing live.
Music showcase
Learn traditional West African rhythms and practice playing in an ensemble. Joe has a particular passion for this style of music and enjoys passing along what he has learned from the masters. All skill levels and ages are welcome!
Drum Circle
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I’ve been playing guitar for about 10 years, but I’ve learned more in the past 2 years with Joe than I did in all those years before. Every lesson I have with him something just clicks. He's the best teacher I’ve had, no question.
Matthew, guitar
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Brought back the joy of playing music after a 30+ year break, dusted off the rusty bits with the help of Dave my piano teacher, and learned how to jam with the help of Joe!
Margaret, piano
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Joe is a great teacher here and has helped me greatly improve my bass skills. He’s an awesome dude and you meet awesome people from just going here. 5 stars, great place.
Ben, bass
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Joe is a very talented guitarist, bassist, and drummer and he can teach anything from jazz to metal and I’ve been going to him for 4 years … he makes music easy to understand and even easier to play, he teaches you in a very fun and interactive way.
Sean, guitar
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Our son Paul has been a student of Joe for the past three years and Joe has been an incredible teacher opened his mind to different genres of music, challenged him in many ways, and very supportive of his passion for music.
Caroline, parent of Joe’s student
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Joe is the best teacher!! The only teacher [I] have been ever able to focus with!!!
Cam, guitar and piano
Root Note Music School is for…
Adults who never played a note in their life, but always wanted to try
Plateaued musicians who want fresh air and new inspiration
Neurodiverse learners who thrive with clarity and flexibility
Kids who want to play just like [insert name of favorite artist]
Bands/ensembles looking to refine their sound and artistry
Book your free discovery lesson today!
Join us at our studio (455 Neptune Blvd) for a complementary discovery lesson. Call or text 516-500-7616 to schedule.