Blue Mango Music Studio is a student-centered music school located in the heart of Rhinebeck, NY. Named after my two dogs, Blue and Mango—who were by my side through long rehearsals, graduate school deadlines, and the earliest days of building this studio—the name now represents a space rooted in care, creativity, and connection.

Before opening the studio in the Hudson Valley, I spent years performing in regional theaters and Off-Broadway productions, music directing in schools and camps, and studying how people learn. I hold a BM in Musical Theatre from Oklahoma City University and an MA in Music Education from NYU. Locally, I’ve worked with organizations including SUNY New Paltz, The Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, Star 2B Performing Arts, Dutchess Community College, and Marist University.

My students have gone on to perform on Broadway, in regional and local theaters, and in academic programs across the country—but most importantly, they’ve reached milestones that mattered to them, whether that was building confidence, landing a dream role, or simply finding joy in making music.

At Blue Mango, we believe music is a language everyone can speak. Lessons are personalized, growth-oriented, and designed to help each student build confidence, skill, and joy in their voice and musicianship. Whether you're looking for voice lessons, piano lessons, cello lessons, or audition coaching, we’re here to help you reach your goals.

Looking for music lessons in Rhinebeck or the Hudson Valley? Send us a note and let’s talk about your goals.

— Russell McCook