Ahren's Music Lessons
About
I am a multi instrumentalist (guitar, bass, pedal steel, mandolin, dobro, etc) well versed in many genres who is sought out as a session musician and sideman. My formal education and gives him a firm grasp of music theory and my diverse background performing and creating gives me a broad understanding of music. As a teacher I tailor lessons to bring the student from where they are to where they want to be with no judgment, and with great patience.
The best parts of teaching are spreading joy and knowledge of the craft of music, seeing a student improve with practice, seeing the spark of passion ignite a lifelong love of music.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We begin by assessing the insterests and abilitly level of the student. Then we determine the goals, whether it's to become a professional musician, audition for a college music program, or just learn for fun. We then swiftly begin working on material that is within reach of the student's ability level and gradually introduce more challenging material.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Towson University music program Jazz/Commercial/Classical Guitar.
Years teaching at a Middle School, working at a music school, teaching out of a guitar store. Now exclusively private lessons.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Due to high volume of students I charge in blocks of 4 lessons, paid upfront and to be given on a weekly basis.
How did you get started teaching?
Friends would ask me to show them how to play something, then friends of my parents would ask me to teach thier kids.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with a wide variety of students- as young as 6 and as old as 67. Male, female, non binary, LGBTQ+. Students with learning disabilities, some with mild autism. Professional musicians looking to hone their craft, but also people who just want to do it for pure enjoyment. Some people who pick it up effortlessly, and some who are amazed at my patience to revisit the same concept until they are comfortable moving on.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Recently I was teaching a 12 year old student who I've been teaching for two years. We decided to revisit some basics about music theory and I saw his eyes light up when he exclaimed "it all makes sense now! How did you come up with this"? Unfortunately I couldn't take credit for inventing music theory but I was glad that I could help him develop his own understanding more deeply.
I was also quite proud watching several of my students get into college music programs. Even more proud to see some of my students become professional musicians.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Students should feel comfortable with the teacher; comfortable to experiment, ask questions, try something they might fail at before getting it right. They should be comfortable moving at the same pace. Some people need more time, some people want to move quickly.