About
I have spent the last 37 years playing and studying the guitar. Beginning in the mid 90's, I was part of the signed metal band Wicked Innocence, which recorded two cd's and toured the Midwest, West coast, and Mexico. Recently, I have played in the acoustic duo, Evory, played lead guitar in the rock band East AM (whose cd "Another Year" is available on iTunes), and also with The New Americans. I am now currently in the cover band Chorduroy. We play every weekend in DE/NJ/PA area. I have also enjoyed playing as part of the pit orchestra for the Delaware Children's Theater, including "Honk" and for their rendition of the popular Broadway musical "Jesus Christ Superstar" in 2012. For the last 10 years I have been teaching at Accent Music. I teach all ages, from students as young as 4, in a no pressure, laid back atmosphere, and have worked with special needs students, as well. I am committed to making sure my students learn how to play and understand the guitar. My lesson plan teaches chords, theory, timing, solo work, and reading. I teach songs in genres my students enjoy in order to put to use and reinforce the skills they are working on to keep lessons not only educational, but fun, as well. I truly want to see all of my students succeed and learn to love to play the guitar as much as I do.
Mostly having someone who really wants to play and knows nothing about playing guitar eventually start to learn and understand playing music on their own. Music is amazing and it’s cool when you learn to express yourself in that way.
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Lauren H.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I usually will ask new students if they have any previous knowledge or experience with the guitar or any music in general. Then within a week or 2 of starting finger exercises I can assess where they are along their path. Then I can set up a lesson plan tailored to the individual to help them get the most out of the lessons.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been playing guitar for 37 years and have been in many bands and in different genres along the way. I also took lessons for a couple of years when I first started out. After that I just asked as many questions as I possibly could with players with more experience than me until I got the answers I was looking for. As I started to get it I read and studied as much as I could to further and broaden my playing. I have been very successful in my tenure teaching at Accent Music since 2007 and now currently at Music & Arts.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My lesson pricing is $37 per 1/2 hr once a week. Lesson times will vary on availability but once you have a day and time it will be the same time/day each week. Lessons are paid on rolling 4 week schedule ($148) after initial payment on sign up.
How did you get started teaching?
I was employed as a salesman at Accent Music for 4 years prior to teaching there. A couple of teachers left so and so openings became available. I talked with the owner and said I could fill an opening so he gave me a shot. I taught there from 2007-2023. Now I’m currently at Music & Arts on Kirkwood Hwy.
What types of students have you worked with?
From as young as 4 to as old as 75. I teach all levels of experience but the majority of my students are brand new to guitar. I have also worked with a few special needs kids including autistic and asspergers students.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have played in many bands across all genres. From acoustic duos, pop, pit orchestras, rock, metal, and grindcore. I recently just got a gig with a country band so now I have pretty much played in every guitar situation. I always teach that a good musician is not limited to one style. You should be able to find yourself in any style of music and be able to deliver.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Most importantly that you have fun working with your teacher. If lessons aren’t fun or you don’t get along with the teacher lessons are going to seem like a chore and playing an instrument should be fun. It does take work to be good at it but still should always be fun.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Mostly what level of playing guitar do you want to achieve. If all you want to do is be able to play some basic chords and play some songs then you don’t need lessons teaching hardcore theory and scales. Granted these things are important if you plan on taking your playing to the next level. But again playing should be fun. You can always do that down the line if and when you’re ready.