Cristina Gallagher · Music Teacher
Hi, I’m Cristina Gallagher. I’m the teacher who will be beside your child — listening carefully, encouraging every try, and cheering them on, one note at a time.
I studied music education on a full scholarship at Molloy College, graduating in 2013, and completed my master’s in music education at New York University in 2017 on a partial scholarship. For ten years, I taught at the same school in Gravesend, Brooklyn — general music, band, chorus, recorder, ukulele, and guitar — and helped build the music program there. My own instrument is the alto saxophone, and I can play all of the woodwind, brass, and percussion band instruments.
I believe children learn best through hands-on experiences, in a welcoming, supportive environment where they feel comfortable exploring, expressing themselves, and taking musical risks. Every student is included, exactly as they are — and as they grow in music, they grow in confidence, and in a lifelong appreciation for music.
Your child’s first lesson will begin with a warm smile and a fun, low-pressure activity — singing, movement, rhythm games, and hands-on instruments, all at your child’s own pace. There are no wrong answers here, and mistakes are part of learning.
Music is a journey, taken at your child’s own pace, and it should be enjoyable. No experience is needed, and perfection is not the goal — just curiosity, and a willingness to try.
No. Beginners are welcome. Lessons are designed to meet students where they are and help them progress at a comfortable pace.
In-person lessons are available on Long Island, with virtual lessons also offered.
A 45-minute private lesson is $60.
Please give at least 24 hours’ notice — no fee. A same-day cancellation is 50% of the lesson fee, and a no-show or cancellation without communication is the full fee. Rescheduling is subject to availability. Additional policy details are shared during enrollment.
Each starter is four private 45-minute lessons, one per week, in order — for complete beginners in grades K–8. By the end of lesson 4, ukulele and guitar starters aim for 3–4 chords played cleanly, 2–3 strum patterns, and 2 complete songs; the saxophone starter aims for safe assembly, a steady tone, 3–4 beginner notes, simple rhythms, and 2 complete songs. A skill that isn’t clean yet is repeated in the next lesson rather than rushed.
Students need their own instrument for lessons and home practice — ukulele, guitar, or alto saxophone, as applicable. Tell Cristina what you already have in your inquiry, including if you don’t have an instrument yet, and she’ll advise on getting started before your first lesson. A rental, where offered, is for class use only, unless take-home use is agreed in writing in advance.
That’s completely fine. Tell Cristina what your child enjoys listening to or singing along with, and she’ll help you find the right starting place — including whether ukulele, guitar, or saxophone is the best first step.
Not yet. Beginner ukulele, general music, and parent-child courses are planned and will be shared as they become available. Ask about online learning in your inquiry and Cristina will let you know when they open.
Have a question or want to talk about lessons? Send an inquiry and tell me a little about what your child is interested in. Cristina replies personally.
Email Note & Flourishmusic@noteandflourish.com · 516-965-3688 · @noteandflourish
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