About
My students can tell you.
See my 5 star reviews on Yelp.
http://www.yelp.com/biz/guitar-lessons-with-ken-brown-menlo-park
My teaching approach:
Many teachers teach the guitar by simply teaching songs at the very beginning without teaching the technique required to play them properly.
This is a sink or swim approach and even many of those who swim, i.e. manage to learn to play the songs, develop a poor technique in doing so, which will have serious consequences later on.
Without a firm foundation the technique will always be shaky.
I can't tell you the number of students I have had show up with bad habits that have hampered their technique.
After years of study. I can save you a LOT of time.
Having a student leave the studio with smiles and shiny eyes means that they are loving the memorable work we are doing and are soaking it up. This is what I live for!
My lessons tune into a students goals and needs, and are customized to the styles that turn them on.
My price includes:
– Printed lesson sheets, and a special Google Drive folder where I put music.
– An assessment of your playing and what I see as the main priorities for your development as a musician.
– An examination of your instrument's "play-ability" and list of possible improvements
– Opportunity to perform with other students, or even accompany me on a gig.
– A concurrent study of music theory.
(chords, scales, arpeggios etc.)
_ The most effective ways to learn quickly.
_ Scientifically based Accelerated Learning Theory
_ Reference to outside resources for learning.
_ Exposure to the Great Legends of guitar,
many of which I have studied with.
I also offer lesson packages and discounted rates when you book for a 3 month and 6 month package. And greater savings on an annual package.
My guitar lessons take place in my studio or student's home, or online.
Guitar Lessons with me take place in the following areas: Redwood City, 94063
Guitar Techniques: Lead guitar, Rhythm guitar, Finger style, Vocal Accompaniment, Performance, Improvisation, Jamming Skills, Reading Music, Music Theory, Gypsy Jazz, Classical Guitar, Scales and Exercises, Improvisation, Guidance In Equipment Selection, Brazillian Bossa Nova and Samba, Jazz Guitar, Blues, early Rock.
I love making students dreams of making music come true. I love to see the excitment in their faces when they
are turned on by what they are learning.
One of my students wrote this:
Oh Ken Brown, with guitar in hand,
A teacher truly like no other man, His skills and knowledge, vast and true, Inspiring students, like me and you.
He guides us gently, with patient grace, Through each chord, and fret's embrace, His lessons, clear, and always kind, Leaving us, with a love for music that's confined.
With strings strummed, and fingers quick, He transforms us, from novice to a guitar tricks, With every lesson, our skills do grow, Thanks to his wisdom, we now all know.
So here's to Ken, with a heart of gold, A teacher and mentor, whose worth we hold, In music, and life, he's shown us the way, Leading us to success, night and day.
Specialties
Instrument(s)
Experience level
Students age
Interest(s)
Lesson length
Photos and videos
Reviews
Michael C.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Check instrument for playablity and intonation. Recommend basic set-up if needed.
Assessment - Technique, Musicianship, goals
Create a plan based on students goals.
Start building the foundation and learning
the tools necessary for guitar success.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Batchelors Degree in Music
2 years at San Francisco Conservatory of Music
Studied with Andres Segovia, Pepe Romero for classical
Joe Pass, Barney Kessel, Howard Roberts, Pat McCauley,
Don Haas, for Jazz
Of course you learn many things on the bandstand.
That are very important to pass on to those who want to perform in public.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I have a basic price for drop in lessons not regularly scheduled.
Greater Savings with a regular weekly schedule.
And various promo package deals 3 month, 6 month, and annual, during certain times of the year.
You save considerably with a package so keep your eye out.
How did you get started teaching?
My parents bought me a Stella Guitar
when I was a kid. I was self taught until
I went to the conservatory.
What types of students have you worked with?
from a 5 year old child, now a concert artist.
to engineers and high tech people who need a break
from the stress, and find joy and solace in music.
Professional guitarists. Home makers who have a passion for music. I have students from all walks of life.
I LOVE launching beginners.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I sometimes volunteer to play music in the hospitals.
This is very rewarding.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Don't consider price only, but VALUE. Get the best teacher you can. It will save you in the long run.
If you learn from someone who is teaching on the side and isn't qualified, you can end up wasting a lot of money and time if your not taught proper technique.
There are tons of players who play but have never learned how to teach. One with a degree is usually good, at least they put in the time get formal education. It's no guarantee but if I had to pick, I'd pick the one with a degree. Or with concert experience.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What style of music do you really love?
You can often find a teacher that teaches that style.
Be wary of teachers that say they teach all styles.
Don't take Classical Guitar from a teacher that mostly teaches Rock.