About
We have a balanced approach to learning the guitar and achieving peak performance in a fun, dynamic and motivational style. Balanced Guitar teachers have reached the highest level of mastery and know how to transmit that ability to all students. You will:
Learn the music you are interested in
Learn how to read music
Learn how listen and learn music by ear
Learn great technique that leads to mastery, accuracy and ease
Learn to improvise, accompany, and create solo arrangements
I LOVE TEACHING! I live for the "aha" moments when the student gets it. I have a w superpowers:
1.I'm able to break difficult tasks into manageable steps
2. I can explain everything in multiple ways and I match how I phrase and demonstrate concepts and techniques to the learning style of each student.
This gives me the immense satisfaction of having people actually learn and develop into great musicians
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Ian W.
Ben C.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I use movement and kinesthetic learning in all my teacing, and I adapt how I phrase concepts and techniques to the learning style of the student. We will learn an approach that balances solid technique with fun and improvisation. The material we use is the material the students want to learm.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have taught for over 20 years at the highest levels, including at Columbia University for the last 8 years. I have studied the learning process deeply and have a Ph. D. in music theory, a masters in guitar, and a bachelors in classical guitar and composition. I have also studied ways to teach, specifically using Dalcroze's kinesthetic learning principles and receiving a Teaching Artisit Certificate from Columbia University in 2019. My job as Director of Education Programs for the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance trained me to observe teachers and determine what is effective and what is ineffective in their teaching. I have used all this in teaching and continue to absorb ways to teach.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $60 per hour, $45 for half hour.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught all types, from kindergardeners to retired students, from busy professionals to university students, and everyone in between.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I just moved to San Diego from New York City and driving across country was beautiful. I booked concerts along the way, which included places to sleep. So I made money on my trip, saw how big and beautiful the country is, and was able to share my talents with audiences that have never heard me before.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
A good teacher, like a good guitar, will motivate you to practice. If you haven't grown in 3 lessons, try someone else.