Music Lessons

Andrew Decker: Andrew is the owner of Downright Music and has over two decades of experience both teaching and performing music. His unique and original instructional approach has helped many students over the years become great musicians and go on to perform in professional bands.  He teaches guitar lessons, bass, drums, piano, singing, performance, group jam classes, recording, songwriting and several other instruments. 

"Teaching music has taken me to the next level as a musician.  I have learned that when you show someone music, you are rewarded by learning as well.  Music has a long history and an unwritten future.  I am truly blessed to be apart of it.  Thanks to all the people who have shared their music with me."  

Thomas Busemeyer: Thomas has been playing in Connecticut for years. Starting at a young age, Thomas quickly gained experience by playing at Downright Music and connecting with many local musicians. He has played in many professional musical theater productions, including Sweeney Todd, Xanadu and Newsies. He has been in many local bands including West Hartford’s GraviTonik and, currently, New Hartford’s Ruby Leftstep. Having started as a student at Downright Music, Thomas has an intimate understanding of what makes learning music so fun. He is enthusiastic about sharing music with his community, and sees it as a privilege to be able to teach.

Kennedy Morris: Kennedy teaches voice, piano, guitar, ukulele, and bass. She performs with various bands, has been in over 90 theatrical productions, and has won numerous vocal completions including Celebration of Music and Northwest Vocal Showcase. She is also the music teacher at the Litchfield Montessori School. Downright would be honored to have you come join the family...so what are you waiting for!?

Katie: A female Pop artist with Saint Croix roots, Kurita (Katie) incorporates the relatable highs and lows of growing up in the modern day into her music.  From the age of 5, Kurita has formed a love for music.  After moving to Connecticut, Kurita began taking lessons at Downright Music.  Here, her passion continued to grow stronger.  At the age of 15, she began teaching cello, voice, and piano at Downright Music.  This led her to the opportunity of working alongside Asher The Producer, where she was able to release her first album “Karma”.  This album was later followed by a single titled “Our Preview”.  Her song “Purity” was mixed by Grammy-nominated producer, Jon Blass.  Kurita is now focused on bringing her music to the next level with the help of Sully Erna.  Kurita is eager to share her growing knowledge with others, and is very passionate about teaching at Downright Music, where it all started for her.  

Maddy: Madeline (Maddy) started her music journey right here at downright at 9 years old starting with piano and eventually branched out to guitar and bass. Now, she teaches piano, guitar, and beginner voice students. Maddy loves all genres of music and is very excited to be able to create a fun environment for her students to explore music! 

Downright teacher, Katie Smith’s official video for her original song “Our Preview”

Downright student band, The River Rats, performing their cover of “Creep” by Radiohead

Downright student band, Human Nature, performing their cover of “1612” by Vulfpeck

Downright student, Hailey Jordan, performing her original song “Overthrown”