Chris Kochenash

Instruments: Guitar, Ukulele, Bass

Best Fit For: Beginners of all ages in the Durham area; ukulele for all ages, guitar and bass for ages 8 and up.

Why we recommend him for music lessons in Durham:

He is a great fit for families in Durham, NC looking for a patient, beginner-friendly music teacher. He excels at meeting students where they are and adapting lessons to individual goals while building strong foundations in rhythm, music theory, and notation.

He is the ideal choice for families in neighborhoods like Trinity Park, Hope Valley, and Woodcroft who want a teacher that balances technical skill with encouragement. His teaching standards align with the artistic excellence of Duke University’s Department of Music. By fostering a love for performance, he prepares students to appreciate Durham’s rich cultural scene, from the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) to the local jazz and indie venues downtown.

Specialized Teaching Focus:

• Beginner-Friendly Instruction: Specialized entry-level paths for guitar, bass, and ukulele.
• Rhythm & Timing: Establishing a solid internal “clock” to make playing with others easier.
• Applied Music Theory: Learning the “how” and “why” of music through the songs students actually want to play.
• Neighborhood Engagement: Bringing quality music education directly to the American Village and Watts-Hillandale communities.

Background & Musical Experience:

• Multi-Instrumentalist: Over a decade of focused study across guitar, ukulele, and bass guitar.
• Durham Community Teacher: Providing official private instruction since 2022.
• Goal-Oriented Mentorship: A self-taught background that allows him to relate to the challenges of new learners.

Teaching Style: His lessons are encouraging, flexible, and goal-oriented. He focuses on helping students in Durham develop a strong musical foundation while keeping lessons engaging, approachable, and enjoyable.