About
I pride myself in tailoring my lessons to each student, taking into account their musical goals, practice opportunities, and strengths/weaknesses. I also excel at setting realistic expectations, and helping my students break through the barriers and challenges that hold so many new guitarists back. My teaching method makes learning guitar fun and interesting!
I enjoy seeing students gain confidence and make progress toward their goals whatever those may be...It is a pleasure to pass on the things I've learned about guitar over the years to those starting their musical journey.
Details
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Larry J.
Sebastian R.
Thomas J.
Dehao L.
Dehao L.
Leia J.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
It is important to first assess what the student's goals are: Then a "roadmap" is put together for the individual student, which will maximize their strengths, minimize their weaknessess, and get them learning and integrating the material as fast as possible.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
35 years playing in rock and pop bands...25 years experience teaching....Many hours of coursework at the college level of music theory.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My rates are as follows:
$40.00 for an hour. (my home)
*Add $5.00 for in-your-home lessons 5 miles or less from RB
*Add $10.00 for in-your-home lessons more than 5 miles from RB.
How did you get started teaching?
I saw so many people taking up guitar, only to quit after a few weeks out of frustration. I figured that there has to be a better way to teach, to help students meet their goals, and not give up out of frustration. And as good as online lessons are, they are not the same as having an instructor on hand to troubleshoot problems and provide the necessary encouragement that students invariably need when starting out.
What types of students have you worked with?
All types...I specialize in beginners and intermediates and have students of all ages. (From young students to busy adult professionals who have always wanted to learn guitar, but for whatever reason, couldn't find the time.) Prefer to teach ages 12 and above...I teach primarily rock and popular music styles. (I like to use a song-oriented approach if possible.)
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I am a big fan of getting out frequently to see Southern California's classic rock tribute bands, which I feel are the finest in the world. It is amazing the quality of the musicianship that the top tribute acts display, and I am glad they are "carrying the torch" to keep the music alive, and introduce it to younger audiences. I recently saw the band "Queen Nation" and was blown away at how good they were, given the fact I had seen the real band Queen twice in the '70s.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Contact me for advice before buying your first instrument. It is a critical decision and too many first timers buy instruments that are unplayable or difficult to play, that keep them from having fun playing the guitar. Be passionate about your decision to learn guitar, and realize there are numerous challenges, especially early on in the process. But trust me, it gets more fun and more rewarding and can be a lifelong passion.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What exactly do they want to do on their musical journey? Jam with the radio or streaming service in their bedroom alone? Play guitar with friends? Join a band? Play by the campfire or on family vacations? It is always good that the student clearly identify why they have decided to learn guitar - and what their expectations are once they begin lessons and start moving forward.