About
My teaching approach: de-mystifying theory for an advanced understanding of songs, songwriting and soloing. I studied at Berklee College of Music (also New England Conservatory, BU Conservatory) and prefer the simplicity of Berklee's theory approach. I use it continually as a player, songwriter and performer - in original and tribute bands. My influences are: Jimi Hendrix, Buddy Guy, Chet Atkins, Django Reinhardt, Robert Fripp, Adrian Belew, George Harrison, and more. My guitar lessons take place in: The teacher's studio or the student's home Guitar Lessons with me take place in the following areas: Boutique Guitar Exchange and in home lessons around: Candler Park, VA Highlands, Inman Park Guitar Techniques: Lead guitar, Rhythm guitar, Open tuning, 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 Your first guitar lesson with me might include the following: Listening to the student play gives me an idea of their playing level. With a beginner we will discuss a bit of theory, and history of theory, learn at least 5 chords and begin working on playing the first songs. Along with some basic chords I include technical exercises to help speed the learning curve. A guitar lesson with me might entail the following: Working with songs the student wants to learn and play, we will deconstruct the song theoretically and technically on the instrument to learn how to play it. A clear and easily understood approach makes it easy to master the instrument. The qualities I look for in an ideal guitar student might include the following: A student who is interested and eager.
I enjoy interacting with people, and walking them through the music they love and want to lean to play. My teaching style gets people playing full songs quickly and jumping into the heart of why they want to learn - to play what they love!
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Will R.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Initially I need to establish musical interests, playing level and help identify a student's goal for the lessons. I usually have my students playing chords to their first song over the course of the first lesson.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Studied at Berklee College of Music, New England Conservatory, BU Conservatory. I've signed two record contracts and played 200+ shows a year in support of my music releases. I am a professional recording engineer and record producer. Teaching guitar to beginners, helping advanced students add new genres and styles, or helping a young student learn to write, record, and perform - I have decades of professional expereince and have played thousands of shows.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons are set up 4 weeks at a time.
1 30 min = $35
1 60 min = $65.
I give both 30 and 60 min lessons based on what students would like.
How did you get started teaching?
I have been teaching since I started learning. It is in my nature to teach, explain and help students achieve.
What types of students have you worked with?
Men & Women and Children of all ages.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Managing my student, now music partner, Mia Green - our first album Sun & Moon was recorded with Kristian Bush, we have opened for Adam Craig, Rodney Atkins, Rebel Union, Michelle Malone and more, culminating in solo shows selling out Eddie's Attic three times.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be prepared to see the connections between technique, study, music and life. It all overlaps.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Think about establishing a goal - play this song, or learn to play all night around campfires, or buckle down and learn to play and work in music on a professional level. None of these are mutually exclusive from each other.
In my example above - Mia Green at age 11 wanted to play a Taylor Swift song; by age 16 we had written 7 songs, were recording an album with Kristian Bush and performing with major country stars in front of thousands, or selling out club shows. I am almost done recording and producing her second album due out in early 2019.