About
My teaching approach: I’m a Conservatory-trained guitarist, and I have performed and taught guitar for over 25 years. I teach many styles, including classical, folk, rock blues and more.
For beginners, I teach easy notes and chords, basic rhythm, strumming and picking, and how to tune the guitar. Lessons for more advanced students are tailored to their specific needs.
All students will use their favorite music as a basis for lessons. I encourage students learn to read standard music notation as well as tabs and chord symbols. I also teach “painless” music theory, using the guitar fingerboard to illustrate concepts.
My influences are: Bach to Beatles, rock bands, big bands, marching bands, country, folk, bluegrass, jazz, ragtime, gospel, madrigals, ancient music, modern music, music nobody's heard, music everybody's heard, symphony hall to the shower stall, basically every note my ears have ever captured!
My guitar lessons take place in: The teacher's studio
Guitar lessons typically take place on these days and hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM. Other times are available by special arrangement.
Guitar Techniques: Lead guitar, Rhythm guitar, Fingerstyle, Vocal Accompaniment, Performance, Improvisation, Jamming Skills, Reading Music, Music Theory, Scales and Exercises, Song Writing, Guidance In Equipment Selection
Your first guitar lesson with me might include the following: First, I ask students about their interests and what they want to learn. For beginners, I examine their instrument to make sure it’s in playing condition, in tune, etc. I teach them how to hold the guitar and how to play a few notes and simple chords.
I ask more experienced students to play so I can evaluate their technique and skill level. I observe right and left hand accuracy, dexterity, speed and rhythmic precision. Based on their ability, I make recommendations on exercises and repertoire to improve their technique and help them accomplish their goals.
A guitar lesson with me might entail the following: Lessons usually start with a review of what we have been studying recently, and the student plays what they have been working on. I adjust and correct as needed, then we begin working on new material, either a new song, or additional study of the current material.
I demonstrate technique and guide the student through the new material, with emphasis on areas that may require extra attention.
The qualities I look for in an ideal guitar student might include the following: The ideal guitar student is one who really wants to learn!
I really love helping students learn to play and understand music. To me, music is a gift, and I enjoy sharing that gift whenever I can. As their skills improve, students get increased enjoyment and satisfaction from playing. It’s great to be a part of that process, and to help them achieve their goals.