About
I like focus on the area('s) the student is interested by using songs and styles that they enjoy. I have a lot of tricks that can help make learning the guitar or ukulele a lot easier.
In addition to the lessons, I like to give the students the option to join other musicians for the jam sessions at the Greeley studio. This is something that has always increased the excitement for the students.
The sessions have 1 to 3 guitarists, a bassist, a drummer, keyboards, and vocals. We play three songs that the students have all learned previously in the lessons.
Working with people of all ages is really an amazing experience. There are so many different backgrounds and musical tastes that I am always learning as well. It is very rewarding to see the genuine excitement on the student's faces when they get a song or solo down that they didn't believe they could do.
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Billie H.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
At the first session, I like to find out what the student's interests are and what type of music they really like. If they are brand new to the instrument, I generally recommend a few different ideas to see what they would like to try. By the end of the first lessons, they will be able to play a song.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a graduate from the University of Northern Colorado and have played guitar professionally since 1989. I had the honor of opening up for national acts such as Eddie Money, Night Ranger, Quiet Riot.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Since I teach at different locations, the lesson prices may vary based on what the rates are at that studio. I do offer discounts for 45 minute and hour lessons.
How did you get started teaching?
One of the jazz band instructors asked me if I'd be interested in teaching guitar lessons where he taught privately. I went in and interviewed and have been teaching ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with people from ages 6 to 85. I currently have a student who is in her 80's that is participating in jam sessions on Saturdays. She is amazing.
I also have taught people from a variety of backgrounds. Some have never played before and others are interesting in expanding their skills and looking for a little extra motivation.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
We have just put together a little three piece acoustic group with a former band member that I played with 15 years ago. It has been so much fun!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would definitely make sure they are passionate about teaching. It is always good to find out if they enjoy the style you are interested in and that they have plenty of experience with it as well.
It can be helpful to ask about what their approach is. Do they strictly focus on notation and teach out of a book, or are they flexible with their program.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The best thing to decide is what the student's goals are. If the student is interested in trying out for a high school or college jazz band, he/she may want to ask the instructor if they have a program that can prepare the student for the audition.
If they are interested in learning some of their favorite songs, they may want to see if the instructor is flexible and able to teach songs he/she might not have taught before.