Josh Deckman Guitar & Bass Lessons
About
I am a self-taught musician of over 15 years. When I was born, my father supported our entire family by gigging full time, playing acoustic and singing cover songs. From there, I've always had a passion for making music. Now, having spent countless hours developing my own techniques for solo acoustic performance as well as over 9 years playing bass in heavy metal bands, I've begun developing a curriculum for offering to teach others with the extensive insight I possess.
I love being able to watch my students learn and develop their own skills. Every musician brings something new to the table and it's wonderful to see what my students pick up and learn from me, as well as what I may learn from them!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I find out what they want to learn and get out of playing music, then find out what they already know, then proceed to tailor their lessons around their personal experience and goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've taken a few music classes in high school, but most of what I know comes from my own studies and practice. I excercise my knowledge every day in writing new music for my acoustic performances and solo projects, as well as my band Arsena and our current endeavours.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My standard rate is $40 a lesson, as that is based on the curriculum I've worked out for teaching my students how to read, write, and perform on their instrument of choice, as well as understanding the groundwork of what makes music and composition and how to use it to get what they need out of it.
I am willing to negotiate price individually based on a student's particular background and needs, so don't be afraid to ask questions!
How did you get started teaching?
I've done a bit of teaching here and there over the years with friends that have seen my band perform and want to learn how I play bass, as well as nieces and nephews that want to learn to play guitar as well, and so on and so forth. It has come about naturally as a performer.
What types of students have you worked with?
Mostly beginners and people that are inspired by a performance of mine they've seen, though I've had many friends and associates in other local bands that have requested some special instruction of mine.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Last year, before the pandemic began to really take it's toll, my band Arsena hosted a show in our basement in Elkton with a few other local acts and it went off without a hitch, we're so excited to do it again as soon as we can!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! I'm mainly a self-taught musician, though I have plenty of traditional musical knowledge. I've been developing my own curriculum and means of teaching students, so please feel free to ask any and all questions so I can learn from you as well, as I continue along in my teaching career.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Honestly, any and all questions are valid. Keep in mind what it is you want from hiring me to teach you, and convey that to me as clearly and as often as possible so we can work together to get you where you want to be as a writer/composer/performer/whatever you want to be!