Ryan's Music Lessons
About
I love sharing the joy of playing an instrument with my students and seeing them grow into their own musicians. As we learn the guitar, I teach all my students the basics of music theory and structure using the piano. This is for a reason! It helps my students become well-rounded musicians and know 'why' they do certain things as well as 'how'. While guitar mechanics are fairly simple, using the guitar to understand music structure is very complex, whereas the piano is very simple!
This is why I tell people that I teach music, not just the guitar. My students come away with the understanding that they can pick up any instrument they so desire and make music with it. Just like a carpenter isn't defined by his/her hammer, a true musician knows the music is in the person, not the instrument, and the possibilities are only limited by one's imagination. If you just want to be a guitarist, you should look for another teacher, but if you want to be a true, well-rounded musician, you've found your instructor!
Thank you.
I enjoy everything about music, so sharing the ability to create it is super fulfilling to me. I love watching my students progress and grow into their own unique styles of play.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We start with the basics and build a solid foundation, learning how to hold the guitar, how to strum, etc. This is the most important aspect of learning anything if one ever wants creative 'free range' over their respective hobby or passion. We then move on to specific guitar techniques, scales, keys, solo's, basic song-writing, etc.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been playing guitar for almost 20 years and have taught many a student in my day. No fancy certifications to show off with, just a passion for music and teaching.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Price is negotiable, I am flexible. So long as my students and I both feel we are doing something worth our time and money, I am happy.
How did you get started teaching?
In middle school, a buddy wanted to learn the guitar. I found out rather quickly that I enjoy teaching, and found it super fulfilling to watch him progress.
What types of students have you worked with?
All kinds
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Seeing an old student of mine release an original song! So great to see them creating their very own works of art.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure they're not just teaching for extra income, that they genuinely have a passion not only for music but for teaching. If they aren't having fun, you won't enjoy learning and you may never master your instrument.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Am I putting in the time necessary to gain the ability I want?
Do I have reasonable expectations regarding what the teacher can and can't do for me?
Am I taking my responsibility to practice and learn the instrument seriously?
Am I ejoying the instrument, the class, the instructor?