Musician Mixes Teaching, Performing

Frank Moniz started playing saxophone in the school band when he was 10. Not content with mastering the sax, he took up guitar at 12, and when he was done with high school in Warren, he headed to the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, to obtain a music performance degree.

After graduating in 1998, Moniz started performing in earnest, traveling within the U.S. and overseas with various bands. He still performs with "The Agents," a band he's been part of since 1996 -- with a musical style Moniz described as "Sublime meets The Clash," as well as 'Soulshot' and 'Boo City.'

Although his performing tastes run to roots, reggae and soul as well, this talented musician loves to teach. Five years ago, after a stint selling musical instruments, he went to teach at East Bay Music Studio on the corner of Sowams and Kent streets in Barrington.

After four years there, he decided the time had come to start up his own teaching studio, Frankie Ranks Guitar Zone. He found the perfect location at the end of Anoka Avenue, in the plaza at number 146.

Since last summer, Moniz has been teaching students of all ages, from kindergartners to senior citizens.

His students primarily come to Moniz to learn or pefect their guitar skills but, he said, he also sees a lot of band students who are looking to hone their skills on the saxophone.

As the father of three kids himself, Moniz understands how tough it can be for kids to fit practice into their busy schedules (his eldest is starting violin classes soon). But he said it's immensely gratifying when he sees the students who have been practicing.

For Moniz, his love for music means that he wants his students to enjoy the whole process of learning and performing as well.

"I try to bring a good, positive energy to the learning environment," he said.

One of the biggest benefits to having his studio in Barrington is the families of his students, Moniz said.

"People in Barrington tend to be well-rounded," he said. "It's enjoyable to see the interest that parents have in their kids, particularly when it comes to their extra-curricular activities."

For Moniz, the biggest perk, though, is seeing his students get up on stage and perform, which they do twice a year, at a spring and a holiday concert.

While he doesn't tour as much as he used to, performing is still a big part of this teacher's life, and he relishes the confidence that music can bring to his students.

"The concerts are really the highlight for us," he said. "I perform with them, and it's a big confidence booster when a kid is shy and they get up there and perform."

In addition to teaching kids at his own studio, Moniz offers beginner guitar classes through the Bayside Family YMCA. He said spaces are still available for those classes by calling the YMCA.

For anyone interested in private or group lessons with Moniz in his studio, he is still accepting students for the fall session, beginning Sept. 17. For more information or to register for classes, call Moniz at 440-4187.