About
I am a musician who loves to teach guitar. Whether it's blues, jazz, country, gospel or bluegrass, I love to teach it. I've been teaching guitar in the Los Angeles area for nearly 40 years. My main connection of teaching has been through McCabe's Guitar Shop in Santa Monica. I've taught there for 40 years and during that time, I've prepared thousands of songs, charts and various materials that I use for effective teaching.
I also teach privates lessons in my home in Venice California. I also teach through Zoom since I have my materials on file and ready to send. By using Zoom, students enjoy the convenience of not having to drive and find parking and prefer to learn in the comfort of their own home.
I've had an extensive performing career, opened up for Johnny Cash at age 17, performed with jazz vocalist, Andy Bey and his Quartet, played in the late Elmer Bernstein's Orchestra. I had my own jazz quartet for 15 years, and have accompanied and recorded with many singers. I've performed in various types of music, playing folk, bluegrass, country, gospel, blues and jazz.
I have a masters degree in music and also had the privilege of studying with the legendary guitarist, Ted Greene, for 15 years. Much of what I've learned is through Ted.
I enjoy seeing people make progress and how good it makes them feel. I believe that it's the path that gives enjoyment and not just achieving the ultimate goal.
I believe that some study of music theory makes a better guitarist so I include some theory in my lessons.
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Rita B.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I realize that every person is different and learns in different ways. I try to be mindful of the individual that I'm working with.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BA in music from Cal State University Northridge and a postgraduate degree from the musicians Institute in Los Angeles. I opened up for Johnny Cash and June Carter. I played in the jazz quartet of Andy Bey. Was in the orchestra of the Elmer Berstein. I've played in Bluegrass bands and for 20 years led my own jazz quartet. Studied under the guidance of the legendary guitar teacher, Ted Greene. I'm proud to have taught many group classes at McCabes Guitar shop for over 40 years.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $70 per hour lesson. Some students take a weekly lesson others take a lesson every other week. If you prefer, I can give lessons through Skype, with my materials on file to send out during the lesson.
How did you get started teaching?
I actually got started teaching by teaching my friends when I was in elementary school. Teaching is something I have always been comfortable with and have had success for many of my students.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all kinds in terms of ages and musical preferences. I prefer to teach students who are at least 17 years of age and students who are retired and just wanted a hobby to enjoy. I've taught professionals who want to learn more about music theory.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I was very proud when a long time student of mine started playing in a big band. I was proud of him and happy that I had a part in his success. I've had many students go on to be professionals as solo artists, or players in various types of bands.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would let the student know that it's important that he gets along well with his teacher. There's got to be some basic rapport in order to learn from that teacher.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The student should think through what they want out of their music lessons. Do they want to become a professional, do they want to become serious hobbyist who just enjoys playing. In any case the student should realize that there's a good amount out of work involved in becoming a good guitarist. They should realize that a certain amount of practice will be required.