Shut Up And Play Yer Guitar
About
I believe in a balanced approach, theory and exercises are great, but so is ear training. From Smoke on the Water to chord-melody arrangements of jazz standards, I will help you achieve your musical goals.
I studied with John Elliot (whose students included Pat Metheny, Steve Cardenas, Danny Embry and Jay Eudaly), which gives me a strong music theory foundation. I also have a broad 'by ear' background in classic rock and heavy metal. Tablature is well and good, but learning to read music is not really harder and expands your horizons.
It's amazing when a student really catches it: like with any new skill, it can be frustrating at first. If you make time each day, even a half hour, it's amazing how fast things start to come together though. When I finally nail something that's been hard for me, it's a great, but when I see a student have one of those moments, it really makes up for the ones who only take their instrument out of its case on lesson day or when their parents make them.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I try to evaluate where the student is at and what their goals are. One size does not fit all, whether you're wanting to learn classic rock, jazz, punk, I'll help you reach your musical goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Over 40 years of playing a variety of styles.
I studied with John Elliot (whose students included Pat Metheny, Steve Cardenas, Danny Embry and Jay Eudaly), which gives me a strong music theory foundation.
I also have a broad 'by ear' background in classic rock and heavy metal. Tablature is well and good, but learning to read music is not really harder and expands your horizons.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$20 per half hour at my home studio; $30 if I come to you. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice or no-shows are full price—if you give me some notice I can be flexible, of course.
How did you get started teaching?
When I was in high school I started giving lessons at a local music store in addition to a few students who came to my home.
What types of students have you worked with?
Everything from beginners to advanced players—if you get to a point where I can't help you grow, I can probably help you find what you need. It's really gratifying when the student becomes a master.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
The Chiefs won the Super Bowl! I know that's not particularly guitar related...
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
If you're willing to practice, almost anything is attainable. The term 'talent' is largely misplaced, there's really no substitute for time and a willingness to focus on your weaknesses.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
There's no magic to this, if you think it's a chore practicing, it's easy to make excuses to do something else with your time. Can you commit to some time every day, even a half hour? I've never seen a player develop skills when they only take the instrument out its case at a weekly lesson, though I've seen plenty of students try that.