About
I have teaching and performing music since the early 1990's, with my primary instruments being guitars (classical, acoutstic, electric), bass, keyboard and voice. I have written several course books on guitar, currently using my most recent book, The Complete Guitar, available on Amazon. I have a B.M in Music Education, and an M.A. in Educational Technology. My lessons are custom designed for each unique individual, their current abilities and aptitude, as well as their preferences and goals.
While teaching is my livelihood, I love to teach because of the joy it brings in watching another human being flourish and grow in their ability to express themselves in song.
Reviews
Mason S.
Ron O.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Meet and greet and share each other's prefereces in music. Then I evaluate their entry level of knowledge and skill, we discuss their goals and desires, and I propose several courses of study and practice. I design a daily practice routine for them to follow. We re-evaluate their goals and desires from time to time, in case new directions and/or materials are required to proceed.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
B.A. Music Education; M.A. Educational Technology, Boise State University
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
In studio or video lessons:
1/2 hour-$25.00; 1 hour $40
Travel to Student:
1/2 hour $35; 1 hour $50
How did you get started teaching?
I had been playing and studying guitar since age 15, so after I started getting good, doing gigs and such, I began to have friends ask me to teach. I soon discovered I was as good a teacher as I was a musician, so began to teach both in my home and in music stores throughout Boise and the Treasure Valley.
What types of students have you worked with?
Ages 6-100, equal amounts of male and female, guitar, piano, bass, keyboard, voice and musical theater.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I always wanted to play with a cellist, and that dream materialized last Spring, where I got to perform three concerts with a very creative and talented cellist named Jessie!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher you resonate with, communicate clearly with, and that has the kind of skill and knowledge you are seeking. Most important: that you both enjoy each others company!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Really search yourself for what kind of vocalist or instrumentalist you want to be, what kind of music you long to play, and how much energy and time are you willing to devote to those goals.