About
I've been playing guitar for 40 years. I have many references and play for Cumberland Community Church in Smyrna. I play all sorts of styles but I love Blues and Classic Rock the best.
Music is an expression of ones self. We all have something to say through music. It doesn't matter if you are a beginner or a master player. We just have to learn how to look inward so we can speak what is already inside of each of us through music. I love it when a student has the light bulb go off in their head and the 2001 Space Odyssey theme starts playing. That's what it's all about.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to sit down with the student and go over everything they know about the guitar. The physical make up of the guitar and what education of chords and theory.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been playing the guitar for 40 years. I am mostly self taught, but have searched for theory, and have a practial knowlege of theory as it applies to the guitar. I play mostly jam stlye music, so I teach the ability to know theory "on the fly" so a guitarist can sit down with any musicans and be able to play with confidence.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $30.00 per lesson. Lessons usually run between 45-60 minutes. If we go over (which happens often) I never charge more. If a student wants to take more than one lesson a week I am up for negotiton.
How did you get started teaching?
I was playing at church and a parent asked if I could give lessons to their child. I have been coaching sports with kids for 23, so I really enjoy working with kids. This student started to excel on guitar and then other parents also had me start working with their children.
What types of students have you worked with?
At present I have a 5 year old taking lessons from me. He is my youngest student to date. I have worked with someone that is giving lessons at a middle school so he could get more comfortable accessing theory while jamming in a performance. I teach beginners as well as more advanced students.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
One student that I have been working with for many years played a gig at Center Stage.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Ask questions and be curious. Also don't "settle" on a teacher. The wrong teacher can stiffle your goals. I have seen this many times. I do my best to NEVER be that type of teacher. Everyone has music inside them. It's up to the teacher to help the student learn to express what is inside each of us.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Do they really what to play the guitar. Playing the guitar is hard work and a life long commitment. It is worth it, but it is hard work and requires a lot of practice.