Dave Buehrer Guitar Lessons

Initially I assess the student's current musical skills... music background, ability to read music, other instruments played, etc. I then want to know what types of music the student likes, what he or she would like to do with the guitar, and what sounds the student likes from the guitar. Do you want to play professionally, learn music theory, improve songwriting skills, improvise guitar solos, or just strum chords to popular songs? Lessons include suggestions and ideas to improve technique and skill, but I also like to spend some time on understanding music and the guitar as an instrument to play music. The more I can “demystify” the guitar and music the better the student will be able to achieve his or her goals.  Students have weekly assignments and goals, as well as medium and long term assignments and goals.

I have been playing guitar for over 35 years, and teaching for over 15 years. I've played in several cover and original bands, and continue to perform solo and with a band (acoustic and electric). I studied music in college, but my major was in Sociology. I have a BA degree and I'm a former social worker, which I believe contributes to my ability to teach a wide range of students. I also have years of experience in songwriting, recording, and working in studios. I have 3 albums out that I wrote and recorded under the name Paledave.

Regular monthly tuition is usually $140/month ($35/lesson). The amount due is the prorated amount for the upcoming month. Longer session rates are $50 for 40-45 minutes, and $70 for 55-60 minutes. Lessons are prepaid 1 month in advance (during last lesson of each month).

I began teaching lessons around the time I left social work. I worked part time at a music store and began teaching when some customers asked about lessons from me. I was encouraged to get into teaching from one of my former guitar instructors.

I have students at all skill levels and ages. I have taught many students as young as 5 years old, and also students in their 70s. My students have been professional musicians wanting to improve their guitar playing, songwriters looking for ways to break out of a rut, beginners, and everyone in between. Some students practice a lot and advance quickly, while others practice little and achieve their goals at a slower pace. I'm patient, flexible, and work with the student at their pace.

I have a student who started with me at age 8, and continued lessons with me through high school. Over the years his musical interests changed, but he never cared to become a great guitarist or professional. He did, however, love music and liked being able to play music. As a teenager he began writing songs, performed solo acoustic shows, and put together a rock band in high school... all just for fun. When he went off to college he started meeting other students and making friends immediately by getting together with them to play music... just for fun. Music and the guitar will always be a part of his life, and it's been a way for him to meet and socialize with others. I am as proud of this student as those that play professionally. There is nothing more satisfying for me, as a teacher, than to hear about a student making music a part of his or her life.

Be sure to find a teacher who really cares about teaching... not just a musician who uses it just to make some extra money. Also don't settle for a teacher who is discouraging... keep looking. I've heard too many people tell me they quit playing an instrument because of their teacher.

What are my goals? They can be short term or long term. Be sure to develop some short term goals as you get into lessons. They keep you from becoming discouraged. What triggers my emotions when listening to music? Do I like the sound of an acoustic guitar strummed, an electric guitar during a guitar solo, an electric guitar playing chords, etc.? This will help your instructor move you in the right direction.