About
My teaching approach: Real world experience that makes all the difference in effective and enjoyable lessons. I am accepting students who want to expand their ability on the guitar. My patient and enthusiastic approach will encourage your own relationship with the instrument I love. My influences are the great guitarists that have impacted music & the guitar. 42 years playing with over 30 years teaching experience.
Currently doing amazing lessons via Zoom! High quality video, audio and lesson materials! We can do this safe and comfortable together! I have a private studio in Thornton CO. 5 star reviews on here, Google and other sites!
Guitar subjects: Lead guitar, Rhythm guitar, Open tunings, Fingerstyle, Slide Guitar, Vocal Accompaniment, Performance, Improvisation, Jamming Skills, Reading Music, Music Theory, Scales and Exercises, Song Writing, Recording and Production, Guidance In Equipment Selection
I love the guitar and music deeply. I am honored to share that with others. I love it when a student nails what they are working on and the excitement that brings. I love the impact I am having on my students lives. I'm so blessed it's crazy!
Photos and videos
Reviews
Francois P.
Dan D.
Dan D.
Dick S.
Grant K.
John B.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Your first guitar lesson with me might include the following: We go over the student's background, my approach & expectations plus business policies. If the student has previous experience, I ask them to play something they are comfortable with to gauge technical ability and musicality. Once we have that session, I develop a personalized lesson plan to help the student achieve their musical desires and goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I started playing guitar in the 70's as a young teenager. By the time I was 16 or so, I was gigging with older more experienced musicians. I played in Jazz band and Jazz Choir in High School. I studied music at Lane Communtiy College and for a short time at the University of Oregon. I took tons of classes on Theory, Studio Recording, Synth Programming, Physics of Sound, Ensemble Performance and studied guitar with Don Latarski.
In Seattle, I co-founded and managed the top high end guitar store in the Seattle area for 17 years, creating their teaching program and selected a staff of 5 guitar instructors that taught over 300 students a week. I played the top venues in the Seattle area, did studio sessions, appeared on regional CD releases and taught privately. I helped literally thousands of guitarists, from the beginner to touring professionals and top studio musicians, get their personal gear together. I have amassed a deep and passionate knowledge of the world of guitars and music. I feel I have the ability to make the deep and mysterious parts of playing music attainable to all.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching guitar privately in a local music store in my early twenties, after the store noticed me helping someone with a guitar issue in the store. They offered me my first guitar teaching gig on the spot in 1985!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with beginners to touring professionals. I have even had other music instructors study with me. They want to find out what my methods are after they see the results my students achieve.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Talk to several instructors. See if you are good fit. My personal view is that an instructor with a real world approach is more effective than a "by the book" approach. The guitar and music is a beautifully deep subject. Having the basics taught in a fun and effective way, does wonders to demystify the subject.