About
I have been a graphic designer and musician for as long as I can remember.
When I became a father I took great pleasure in passing on my experience and skills to my son. That eventually developed into volunteer sessions at his school, where I loved showing kids how to paint, play music and program code.
As my son, and his friends grew, I continued to share and teach out of our home. I realized how much fun I was having the more they learned.
Thus its become a life's dream to help others achieve their creative goals. To assist fellow artists to pursue their passions.
I love experiencing the AH=HA moment when something CLICKS for the student. When they GET IT, the concept or technique I'm teaching. Once that is locked in, I see the world of opportunity that opens up in their mind.
Specialties
Instrument
Able to read music
Musical styles
Lesson length
Students age
Years experience
Photos and videos
Reviews
chuck G.
Rocio F.
Tena F.
Adair
Chris G.
nicole A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We begin with a phone or text message interview, to evaluate if the student/teacher relationship will be a good fit. I try to get a feel for the artists goals and experience.
Once we commit to move forward with lessons, a schedule is created. There is no contract, lessons are paid for on the day in person, and can be terminated at any time if the student wishes.
While I can go some way to accomodate students without their own software or instrument - I can bring a laptop or a spare - I do urge every student to own the tool they are striving to learn.
Usually we start at the very beginning, and progress at a rate determined by the student. Everyone grows at their own pace. I always try to push the student to improve but ultimately take guidance from their goals. Not everyone wants to be a virtuoso.
There is usually no homework per se, but I do encourage every student to practice the techniques learned each week in their own time. Skills are gained through repetition and the student will progress at a greater rate with constant practice.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I gained a 4 year degree in London in 1987 and have over 30 years working professionally in graphic design, illustration and animation.
I learned to play guitar at age 14 and have played every day since. In younger years I performed rock and punk in pub bands, with pyrotechnic dreams of super-stardom. After reality set in, music became a creative escape within terms I controlled.
I continue to study and learn new aspects of visual media and music production everyday.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My rates are $15 per half hour. Lessons can be tailored to each student in multiples thereof.
How did you get started teaching?
I started by showing my son certain artistic or musical techniques. This developed into volunteering at his school and then helping a few of my sons' classmates and friends. I have been interested in persuing a teaching career ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have mainly taught kids to this point. I love their enthusiasm and excitement. However, I am open to working with beginning or intermediate students of all ages.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Fullerton Day of Music is a local city-wide free event thats hosts bands and artists in parks, cafés and front lawns. I love that the city embraces the performing arts and hope to see it grow. I would love to see more families and neighbors performing ad hoc in residential driveways and street corners in years to come.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Talk to your potential teacher. Get a feeling for them, make a connection. A good teacher should inspire and motivate, and their should be chemistry between them. The sessions should be fun and the takeaway lessons memorable.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Be honest about your current skill level and where you want to take it. Can I help you get there from here? Are you dedicated to the learning process? Are my musical or artistic style in line with yours? Am I the best teacher for Post-Modernism or Country Slide Guitar? (The answer to that one is - no).