About
All styles all levels. I am a musical guru. My 35+ years of experience have given me a unique empathy to understand how my students think and process.
I love the work I do. My teaching is what motivates me each day. The connection I make with my students is profound and I take it very seriously knowing their musical development will do so much more for their life and the lives of those around them.
Photos and videos
Reviews
Kurt D.
Jessica K.
Bianca C.
Edwin H.
Samuels
Mike D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Listen to them play. Learn what inspires them, then I create a curriculum designed for their specific taste and musical goals. To start they will recieve basic materials via email, FaceTime call me (or messenger works well) and away we go!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
37 years of experience teaching privately and groups as well as performing. I'm a graduate of HKU with a doctorate in music. π
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$180 monthly with a signed student agreement. This covers 4 30-minute weekly sessions each month.
How did you get started teaching?
When I was 12 a neighborhood friend wanted me to show him what I was learning in my guitar lessons. We got together every chance we could and even tried to get his mom to pay me for the lessons so we could go get candy and comics. LOL
What types of students have you worked with?
All types. Handicapped, ages 6-85, teenage rockers to classical. Singers who want to learn to accompany their voice, players stuck in a rut, skilled pros who need a better understanding of music theory and how to apply it.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A few years ago before covid hit I was doing volunteer work providing music support to patients in Elizabeth Hospice in San Diego north county. 2014-2019. This was very gratifying and I look forward to doing it again in the future.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
If you are a beginner, find someone who has a lot of experience with getting people started. Do not attempt to learn off YouTube. Having a solid foundation in technique and a good understanding of the guitar and how it works is essential for success.
If you are somebody who already plays finding an experienced pro with whom you can develop a rapport and who has insight to how you learn and how you process the lessons is crucial.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Make sure you can spend at least 10 minutes a day in a focused environment with your instrument. Understand that it's the consistency that perpetuates your development. Reaching a goal simply requires commitment.
We all understand life is always busy but if you want to augment yourself you must religiously set aside 10-15 minutes each day. It sounds simple but this is the single biggest problem with 95% of all my students.