Michael W. Allen teaches private music lessons on select brass and woodwind instruments at his home studio in Ithaca, New York.  Instruction is based upon building a characteristic tone, a solid technical foundation, and advanced reading skills.  Students also study a wide variety of repertoire in order to develop musical expression.

Michael received his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from Ithaca College.  His primary teachers were James Ode, James Linn, and Dave Unland.

Michael started trumpet lessons in second grade with the owner of a local shoe shop.  This eventually grew into weekly trips to Boston for lessons with John Coffey of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and later, Charlie Lewis of the Boston Pops.  As a high school student, Michael earned the position of principal trumpet in the Massachusetts All-State Band, principal trumpet in the Massachusetts All-State Orchestra, and second trumpet in the MENC (now NAfME) Eastern Division Orchestra.  He also participated in the Massachusetts Youth Wind Ensemble under the direction of Frank L. Battisti, sitting principal trumpet during his junior and senior years.
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Michael’s systematic approach to skill development, reasonable practice expectations, and wise selection of solo material produces students that excel in performance.  His private students consistently receive the highest scores at the annual NYSSMA Solo Festival and through this, are invited to participate in Area All-State, Conference All-State, and NYSBDA Honor Band.  These students frequently win principal positions in these groups.

Michael has over thirty years of experience teaching both privately and in the public school system.  As a public school teacher, he has successfully directed band programs at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels.  His mission to reach and challenge students in music has resulted in the development of many innovative programs for young people in the areas of conducting, composing, performing, and teaching.

Michael lives in Ithaca with his wife, Kate, and his two children, Wendy and Nathaniel.  Kate also teaches private music lessons at their home (​Kate Allen's String Studio).  Wendy and Nathaniel are enthusiastic musicians themselves, having been surrounding by music and music lessons all their lives.
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For Michael W. Allen’s complete resume, please visit
​Michael W. Allen on LinkedIn.