Connor Reynolds

I am a college student with years of experience playing guitar.

I picked it up young, so I can relate to those starting their musical journey early. In these years, passion is paramount and I understand that fully. I still incorporate the style and habits of my favorite childhood artists into my playing. Getting young people excited about playing through encouraging their musical interests is an essential aspect of becoming a guitarist.

That being said, when teaching kids or adults, I also understand the importance of practice and intentionality in the formation of good musical habits. I practiced incessantly for years to reach my current level of skill, and I still have room to grow. This doesn't mean that "getting good" must be extremely hard; it does mean that practice is essential.

I don't have formal training, but I do have experience playing with other musicians and a solid grasp of popular music. I participated in many programs in my youth, reinforcing my ability to communicate with others musically. I do not read notation, but I otherwise possess knowledge of basic theory including song structure, pitch and harmony, keys, and basic rhythm/time signatures.

When it comes to teaching, I take a rigorous but affirming approach. I believe that learning music should be a solid balance of work and play. For example, when a student is learning a new technique--say palm-muting--I may have them choose a song they like for practice. I pay attention to detail, ensuring that students grow, while maintaining an understanding attitude. Finally, I make sure to meet my students where they're at, not overwhelming them with work or information.