About
I've been a guitar player and bass player for 20 years having produced my first album in 1998. I operate a functioning recording studio, CD duplication facility, and independent record label. I am also a working musician.
I've been active in both the recording and production side, but also the live performance where I front a jazz combo.
I'm offering lessons here with both an academic foundation and a working professional's experience. The goal is always to understand and help the student achieve their goals.
In terms of recording and producing, I always enjoy holding the first physical example of an expertly-made recording. I truly enjoy seeing the completion of a project.
In terms of teaching, it's the people. I love meeting people and helping them find a creative outlet that's extremely fulfilling and helping them achieve the point beyond "going through the motions" where they can truly emote with their instrument.
Reviews
Lincoln W.
Colin D.
Jared
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
With a new student it's all about finding the baseline of knowledge, experience, and most importantly, goals.
From there it's relatively straight-ahead to develop a plan to work towards those goals, whether they're specific songs or the ability to compose symphonies.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I went to Berklee College of Music and studied guitar under David Tronzo. I majored in Contemporary Writing and Production, which also required me to become proficient at the piano.
The rest is just 20 years of doing it. I've always had a couple students, but this is the first time I'm actively taking on this work.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge less is you come to me.
How did you get started teaching?
When I was a senior in High School, my band director became ill and had to take a long leave of absense. Because a substitute band director is not something a school district can prepare for, the decision was made that I'd teach the class under supervision of the substitute, who happened to be our english teacher.
I won the John Philip Sousa Award that year.
What types of students have you worked with?
In Austin, it was most blues musicians who wanted to understand jazz as well as functionally additional tutoring for school band and orchestra for the children I've taught over the years.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure you get along with them, make sure they care about your goals.