About
I've taught music for over 6 years, and have students who have stayed with me for 4 years. My teaching topics include (but aren't limited to):
Singing, songwriting, arrangement, and any instrument with strings or keys, including:
Guitar, banjo, bass, mandolin, dulcimer, ukulele, violin
Piano, organ, accordian
Singing
Songwriting
Arrangement
Production
Music theory
Music theory:
Numerical system/Nashville notation (i.e. I, IV, V, etc)
Scales (i.e. major, lydian, mixolydian, melodic minor, etc)
Time signatures (4/4, 3/4, 6/8, 5/4, etc.)
Vocal Technique:
Breath support (diaphragm control, steady airflow)
Vocal runs
Tone (vowel shaping)
Clear consonants
Emotional expression
Instrumental technique:
Physical alignment
Fingerpicking, picking, and strumming patterns
Chord technique
Scales
My favorite part of teaching is the joy I feel when a student grasps a new concept and “levels up”. I help students achieve this by demystifying the process of creating music through breaking it down into specific pieces that accumulate into a well rounded understanding of music theory and technique.
Photos and videos
Reviews
Cindy S.
Dana C.
Richard R.
Joseph V.
Janet H.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I intially find out how long the student has been playing (if at all) and how much they know. I also find out what kind of music the student wants to play. This way I can both teach them fundamentals / music theory and taylor their skills so they can play music that is subjectively satisfying to play.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have two music degrees, an associates and a bachelors degree. I have taught music at a music school for four years, and I have been immersed in and played music for my entire life.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$50 an hour, or $30 per half hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching in 2013 when I taught a friend to play mandolin in my band at the time. Soon after, I began teaching guitar to a friends kids, and then singing, piano, and guitar to an older woman. Shortly after, I began teaching at Stages Music Arts in Cockeysville. At that institution, I teach guitar, singing, piano, banjo, mandolin, bass, and songwriting, including songwriting workshops. In May I moved to Nashville. I still teach virtually at Stages Music Arts, in person in Nashville, and perform around the country.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have taught students from ages 5 to 70. I can teach fundamentals to total beginners and help hone in nuances for advanced players/songwriters.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently played at the Grand Ole Opry with The War and Treaty. My own band, Conor & The Wild Hunt, also played at Wolf Trap in Virginia. It was a dream come true kind of venue and one of the best shows we've ever played.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I recommend finding a teacher who understands the particular kind of music you want to play.