Rob Plier Music Lessons

First we have to go over some basic names of things, for example, with guitar: we need first to cover the names of the strings, the numbers of the frets, finger numbers and finger letters on each hand. Next we will go over the proper way to sit or stand while playing your instrument to make sure your posture and hand position is the most ergonomic and efficient. From here, lessons can vary from person to person depending on whether their interest lies more in learning by ear, learning to read the notes/theory, or both. I use a combination of method books, individualized instruction to help with technique and musicality, ear training and improvisation exercises, scales and chords and how to apply all of this information to better one's playing. Sometimes we will learn songs or pieces of the student's own selection, or if the student is not sure quite which direction to go in, I will make recommendations. For classical students in particular, I will train you to know the specific material necessary for entrance auditions into college music programs. 

I have a master's degree in music performance with a concentration in classical guitar. As a condition of receiving this certificate, I prepared and performed a 1 hour classical guitar recital of 3 different periods (Baroque, Classical and Modern). I have also toured in a guitar trio as part of my recruitment duties. Furthermore, I was the teaching assistant for an intro to guitar class for music education majors, which is intended to help the students gain a proficiency in teaching guitar at the k-12 level in public schools. 

Beyond my academic training, I have experience performing as both a soloist and in bands/ensembles and have successfully run a local music festival for 3 continuous years (Reston Naturefest) 

I always offer 1 free 30 minute trial lesson with no strings attached. If we are a good match, lessons are billed at the beginning of each month of lessons and must be paid through Venmo. Lessons are generally $50/hour $37.50/45 minutes or $25/hour. I offer discounted rates for situations where siblings are signed up for back to back lessons or when students opt to take a higher concentration of lessons (more than 1 hour per week). 

I started teaching when I was 20 years old by meeting people at an open mic who were beginners of guitar and other instruments. I reached out to a few families and started teaching. After some time, I realized that teaching music was what I wanted to do with my life and pursued a bachelor's and then master's degree in music. I have since taught for "The performing arts institute of Virginia" "Lessons In your home" "The-music Store" "Music Maker Workshops" and Radford Univeristy. 

I have worked with students of all ages, skill levels, and cultural backgrounds. I have also worked with special needs students, including those with physical or cognitive disabilities. 

I am fond of seeing my colleagues play online concerts via livestream. Since Covid, it has become our new way of continuing to play live. 

Look for a teacher who is invested in you and will take the time to understand your individual learning style and needs...but also stay open to what the teacher has to say when the teacher pushes you in new directions; remember, the teacher has been doing this for a long time. 

What inspired me to want to study an instrument?

How long do I need to practice, and how long does it take to get "good" at an instrument?

Is there a particular musical genre that I am interested in learning, or do I just want to study general musicianship?

What is the best way to practice to make progress the fastest?