My story

I started playing guitar at nine, drawn first to rock and blues. Over time my musical curiosity led me toward jazz, improvisation, and a wide range of styles. I’ve performed in New York, San Francisco, and Japan, while making original music of my own.

I completed a Master of Music at NYU Steinhardt, studying with musicians including Peter Bernstein, Adam Rogers, and Drew Gress. From 2024 to 2026, I taught undergraduate guitar students at NYU as a Graduate Student Adjunct Instructor.

How I teach

Lessons begin with your interests. Some students want to play favorite songs; others want a strong foundation, improvise, understand music theory, or write their own music. I create a personalized learning plan for each student, choosing repertoire, exercises, and practice goals that suit their interests and experience. I adjust the pace and material as they progress.

My teaching experience spans approximately five years, and I’ve developed learning materials for guitar and music theory. I welcome both children and adults, from brand-new players to advanced musicians.

Acoustic and electric guitar
Rock, pop, jazz, blues, and Latin-influenced music
Technique, ear training, chords, theory, improvisation, and composition
Lessons in English or Japanese

Beyond the classroom

I’m an active guitarist and composer. You can hear my music, learn about my performances, and see my current projects at my artist website ↗.

For lesson inquiries in Park Slope, Carroll Gardens, Fort Greene, Sunset Park, or elsewhere in Brooklyn, please get in touch to discuss arrangements.

Erika Toda with her red electric guitar beside a tree — Photo: Dana Golan

A PLAN WE BUILD TOGETHER

First, I listen.

The music you love, the song you wish you could play, the part that feels difficult: these are where we start. I help you put your goals into words, then build a learning plan with you and explain how each step connects to what you want to do.

Your repertoire, exercises, and pace evolve with you. We keep talking about what feels rewarding, what needs a different approach, and where your curiosity is leading next.

Erika Toda standing beside a pond — Photo: Dana Golan

Erika Toda holding a red electric guitar in a motion-blurred outdoor photograph — Photo: Dana Golan

STUDENT EXPERIENCES

In their own words.

Selected excerpts from anonymous NYU private guitar course evaluations.

“Erika was a very great guitar instructor and made concepts easy to learn. She made the lessons very fun and tailored to what I needed to learn to improve.”

Anonymous NYU student · Spring 2026

“I really enjoy working with Erika! She is always so patient and supportive!”

Anonymous NYU student · Spring 2026

“I’ve been Erika’s student now for several months. I love learning guitar from her. She is so knowledgeable and friendly. I look forward to my lesson every week. Highly recommend.”

— T. F.

A teacher who’s a musician first.

My story

How I teach

Beyond the classroom

First, I listen.

In their own words.