Paperdog Music
Music lessons, studio recording, mentorship and more!
Mission
At Paperdog Music, learning music is about more than notes and technique; it’s about cultivating confidence, creativity, and connection. Founded by jazz performer and educator Nico Catenazzo, Paperdog Music offers personalized music instruction, artist development, and studio mentorship for people of all ages and skill levels.Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time, leveling up your chops, or developing your voice as an artist, Nico creates a welcoming, judgment-free space where growth feels exciting and achievable. With over 15 years of teaching experience and a deep love for music in all its forms, Nico helps students turn curiosity into real, lasting musical skill.
Meet Nico
Nico’s musical journey began at just seven years old, playing tunes on a little Casio keyboard — and he’s been hooked ever since! With a degree in Jazz Performance and over 15 years of teaching experience, Nico brings a fun, encouraging, and engaging approach to every lesson. He’s a patient teacher who believes that learning piano should be as fun as it is challenging.Whether you're a total beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, Nico creates a welcoming, judgment-free space where students feel supported and motivated to reach their goals. He loves seeing his students succeed and knows that with an open mind and a bit of dedication, anyone can learn to play!In addition to piano instruction, Nico also teaches general artist musical development, studio production, audio mixing and mastering, and recording techniques. He enjoys helping students explore their creativity both on and off the stage, offering the tools and knowledge they need to grow as well-rounded musicians.He is fluent in Spanish and is happy to offer lessons in Spanish for students and families who prefer it.When he’s not teaching, Nico enjoys composing music, playing video games, and performing live on the weekends.
Discover Your Sound
In addition to instrumental instruction, Nico offers artist development and studio mentorship for musicians ready to expand their creative voice.Through coaching, recording projects, and hands-on studio work, Nico helps artists:
- Strengthen songwriting and improvisation skills
-Develop confidence and artistic identity
- Learn recording, mixing, and mastering fundamentals
- Understand collaboration, feedback, and creative process
- Prepare for live performance and real-world music environmentsArtists appreciate Nico’s intuitive, collaborative style and his ability to create a comfortable space for exploration and self-discovery. Whether you’re developing original music, building a band, or refining your sound, Paperdog Music provides the tools and support to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Pricing
Online or In-person (Tucson, AZ) lessons are offered once a week to maintain consistency and learn at a steady pace.There are tailored prices to fit different needs! Monthly lessons are the most flexible, with extra savings available if you are able to pre-pay for a quarter or semester.For kiddos, we accept ESA funds!
| Monthly Rates | Quarterly Rates (3 months) | Semester Rates (6 months) |
|---|---|---|
| Most Flexible | Bundled Savings | Best Savings |
| Our monthly lesson packages are designed with flexibility in mind. You’ll be billed month-to-month, so you can enjoy lessons on your terms. | This package is a great option if you’re ready to invest in your musical growth and take advantage of extra savings. | Our 6 month package offers the best overall value for students who are ready to make music a long-term part of life. |
| 30 minutes: $200/month (valued at $50/lesson) | 30 minutes: $525 (valued $175/month, $43.75 per lesson) | 30 minutes: $900 investment (valued $150/month, $37.50 per lesson) |
| 60 minutes: $400/month (valued at $100/lesson) | 60 minutes: $1050 (valued at $350/month, $87.50/lesson) | 60 minutes: $1800 (valued at $300/month, $75/lesson) |
| Get flexibility! | Save $25 per month! | Save $100 per month! |
Jessica F
I’ve enjoyed my Artist Development coaching with Nico and my confidence has soared as a harpist and composer. The artistic techniques he’s shared during our sessions have enhanced my improvisational skills and musical compositions. He’s also an advocate for my gifts and provides an empowering and comfortable environment for my creative growth and self-discovery. Nico is an excellent communicator, and he’s patient, flexible, resourceful, and innovative. I look forward to our coaching sessions and creative projects.-Jessica, Harp Therapist & Founder, Intuitive Harp Healing, Oro Valley AZ
Mike L
"Working with Paper Dog Music on the intro jingle for my YouTube channel was an absolute pleasure. After sharing with him the types of music I liked I watched Nico work with a unique genre and create a completely original, compelling, atmospheric track. The final product was just the right balance of fun and professionalism.What impressed me most was how intuitively and creatively he worked. He wasn't just throwing music together - he was creating a mood. Nico tried a few different versions, openly shared his process with me, and genuinely cared about getting it right. He was easy to work with, open to and encouraging of feedback, and he really wanted to create something fun and unique. A howling wolf effect he created really tied it all together. I never would have thought to include something like that and he made it work!I ended up with a killer jingle that I plan to use for a long time. If you’re looking for high-quality custom music from someone who blends speed, real talent, and artistic instinct Paper Dog music all the way. I'll work with Nico again and again in the future."-Mike, Astrology Wolf, LLC
Kara N
"I absolutely have loved my time learning and have thoroughly enjoyed Nico as a teacher - he is so patient, caring, and made me feel comfortable learning a new instrument and I can't recommend him enough for others wanting to learn the piano."
Contact Nico here
You can submit questions for Nico on music lessons, studio sessions/recording, group sessions, band mentoring...anything and all things music are welcome.
Schedule your lesson today!
You can schedule a lesson with Nico using MyMusicStaff by entering your information below!Online and in-person sessions (Tucson, AZ) available in English and Spanish.
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