Guitar/Vocal Lessons With A Heart
11 hires on Lessons.com
1 employee
5 years in business
About this pro
I have been teaching the guitar for over 20 years as well as playing all styles of guitar for over 25 years. My classes include technique, songs and styles tailored to the individual student based on the input of the student, song-writing, guitar/vocal arranging, music theory, note/tablature reading, and everything in between. My classes are based on the individual student's needs and intersests, putting the student's progress and joy of learning above all else. I believe in not only teaching someone how to play, but also in cultivating a passion and love for the art of music. The environment I create for each and every student is one of patience, care, and most of all, fun. I am flexible in my scheduling and will always go out of my way to help resolve any scheduling conflicts that may arise. My life and passion have been centered around teaching music for many years now and my goal is to pass that passion of music and learning on to all of my students.
Getting to know my students and enjoying the process of learning music with them.
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Credentials
Sacramento, CA 95838
Email verified
Phone verified
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William is intelligent, well prepared, skilled and responsive. I’m learning a lot. He is a good fit for my learning style.
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William is great at motivating my 13 year old son. I think William knows just how much to push and when to give him space. My son loves playing the guitar, never wants to miss a lesson, and I don't have to remind him to practice.
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I had really good time learning guitar with Will. During lessons, he focuses mostly on what you would like to learn from theory to technique and often gives feedback in order for improvement. Also, I became more confident in my vocal/guitar performance. Whether you are a beginner or advanced player, there's always something to learn from taking classes with Will.
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Positive feedback and willingness to work on our weird schedule, thanks William.
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FAQs
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First, I find out about the student's background, musical interests, goals, and general interests. This helps me to apply the concepts of learning music to other subjects they have learned about or have an interest in. Next, I show them some basic exercises and go over the basics of technique. Also, if they have some background in playing I ask them if they want to play something so I can assess their strenghts and weaknesses. Lastly, I talk with the student about their musical interests (bands, songs, artists, styles) and come up with an assignment that will motivate them to practice throughout the week.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor's Degree in classical guitar performance. I have taught music full-time in many music schools for over 20 years. I have performed in all styles of music with many different groups for over 20 years. I have studied with Christopher Parkening who is one of the great classical guitar players of the world. I have recorded 4 albums and worked as a session/studio guitarist on many projects. I have won scholarships to study music/guitar and have spent countless hours playing, practicing, performing, and working in the world of music.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Typically I charge $30.00 for 30-minute private classes and $60.00 for 1-hour private classes. These prices not only include the time in class but also the time to write out music for the student each week. Also, I don't require any contracts or forced obligation. Although weekly classes are recommended I also accept bi-monthly requests. And for students who wish to do multiple classes per week that is ok also.
How did you get started teaching?
I became knowledgable and skilled enough at playing and discovered I really loved sitting down with people and working with them to improve their ability and appreciation of music. Once I started teaching the joy only grew when I realized the students really enjoyed working with me. It is about developing a good relationship and balancing fun with discipline.
What types of students have you worked with?
All ages and levels, including special needs. I will work with anyone who wants to learn.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently hosted a recital for my students. They each performed a piece they chose. Over the course of a few months we picked out the music together, created a performable arrangement of the music, practiced it dilligenty in each class, and then the student got to show everyone all of their hardwork and dedication with their performance. Although there were some nerves flying everyone did a great job and there was much pride from me, the students, and their family members and friends. Memories that will last a life-time.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone that will shape the classes around you. Ask the teacher about their process and don't go with someone who only teaches you the music they like or does every class for every student the exact same way. The uniqueness of each student is what the makes the teaching, and therefore the learning, enjoyable, interesting, and motivational.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What songs or music stlyes do I like?
What kinds of goals do I have with music or guitar?
How often will I be willing to practice to get better?
Why do I want to learn how to play?
Lessons offered
Accompaniment Lessons Acoustic Guitar Lessons Arrangement And Composition Lessons Bass Guitar Lessons Bluegrass Guitar Lessons Blues Guitar Lessons Classical Guitar Lessons Composition Lessons Country Guitar Lessons Ear Training Lessons Electric Guitar Lessons Guitar Lessons Music Performance Lessons Music Theory Lessons Songwriting Classes Vocal Training Lessons