Catch the Wave of Musical Inspiration

Russ Davis, founder of Inspiration Wave Music, understands the key to fostering his students’ love of learning to play music, and even to practice.

By Kathleen Durkee

Russ Davis, founder of Inspiration Wave Music, understands the key to fostering his students’ love of learning to play music, and even to practice.

Davis grew up in Loudon Woods listening to his grandfather, a concert cellist from Holland, play his instrument. As a fourth-grader at Midland, he attempted to learn to play the cello and quickly discovered it wasn’t his thing. After switching to the guitar in seventh grade, he was on his way, and, by ninth grade, Davis had his first professional solo gig at the Westchester Country Club.

During his years at Rye High School, Davis played in several different bands that performed a wide range of music, from rock to reggae to folk. He performed at RHS dances and country clubs, and at outdoor venues such as Playland and other county parks. At one time, Davis was the number one act requested by Westchester Parks and Recreation.

He graduated with honors from Dartmouth College, where he was awarded for his achievements in composing and performing. He studied composition, theory, performance, and arranging under some of Dartmouth’s most distinguished music professors.

After graduation, Davis performed with bands throughout the Northeast, and had a few near misses with record deals. In addition to performing, he worked as a bandleader helping to produce and arrange other performers’ works. During this time, while teaching an occasional lesson, Davis discovered that his true love was teaching and mentoring of students.

“I had a true epiphany, I loved the exchange between teacher and student, how I lift them up, and they lift me up,” he said. “I like to create a positive, fun environment that makes improving exciting, yet seems almost effortless because the students enjoy the process!”

Student/parent Jeri Turner said of Davis, “Russ has been not only a great teacher but mentor for my children. He embraces and respects students’ objectives while encouraging them to progress with music skills. It makes the process a joy rather than a chore.”  

Davis’ teaching style differs from most other teachers and schools. He offers a more individualized program in which no lesson plan is forced upon the student. “I use the song as the landscape to teach techniques on an instrument, and to understand how the music is put together. From Mozart to Adele I teach students how to move their hands on an instrument,” he explained.

Another student/parent adds, “Many music schools have a prescribed curriculum for students that compels students to learn to play songs that fit into the school’s particular program. Russ encourages his students to learn to play music and understand theory through mastering songs that they select and like. His approach greatly increases the odds of a student practicing and really growing to love and appreciate music while increasing their skill level.”

Davis taught music at Resurrection School for nine years, but now mostly teaches lessons in the home, where he finds a more relaxed and comfortable learning environment. For some of his more advanced students, Davis offers mentoring in songwriting and arranging and can help with producing and recording.

Music is more important than ever with the stress of school, sports, and other extra-curricular activities, and Davis is thankful he found his way back home to share his talent and experience with the community, and bring joy and inspiration to his students.

Russ Davis offers lessons in piano, guitar, voice, bass, drums, keyboards, songwriting and sight-reading. Check out his website, inspirationwavemusic.com, or contact him at his studio at 946-7486.