About
Dr. Russell Nebelung has been instructing students in guitar performance since 2003. In addition to extensive college teaching experience, he is skilled in teaching children of all ages as well as adults and retirees who have finally found some time for their own musical passions. From nascent beginners to skilled players, Russell is continually expanding his students’ horizons. If you did not have time to practice this week, don’t fret! There is always something he can teach you - be it honing guitar technique, understanding the instrument, music theory, or developing stage presence, his students are always learning. Being able to play the guitar is only the beginning; becoming a musician is a lifelong goal. If the path to musical excellence can be likened to scaling a mountain, then Russell will guide you along the paths most suited to you.
Dr. Nebelung teaches privately from his home studio in Lansing, Michigan. Call or email to schedule.
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to begin by finding out what a student's goals are and what they currently know about the guitar and music. This is something that is done in the first lesson or two and allows us to begin immediately working on things that are new and interesting to the student. Topics include music theory, guitar technique, fretboard knowledge, ear training, etc.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Doctorate of Music in classical guitar performance from Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music where I studied with Maestro Ernesto Bitetti. I also earned minors in jazz studies and music theory.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
5 week packages
½ hour sessions: $24/lesson
1 hour sessions: $47/lesson
10 week packages
½ hour sessions: $23/lesson
1 hour sessions: $45/lesson
How did you get started teaching?
I first began teaching some lessons at Albion College while I was an undergraduate student. At the University of Cincinnati - College-Conservatory of Music I was a graduate assistant who taught lessons and assisted in the direction of the undergraduate guitar ensembles. While living there I taught at Music Makers and Slater Music Academy.
Upon returning to Michigan in 2006 I began teaching guitar lessons at Spring Arbor University, Albion College, and privately in Grand Ledge. In 2012 I began doctoral work at Indiana University and taught guitar classes and lessons as an Associate Instructor until returning to Michigan in the summer of 2015.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students of all ages from the United States and many college students from around the world. I am very well versed with nascent beginners of the guitar as well as advanced students.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
A student needs to find a teacher whom they enjoy learning from and who is willing and able to teach anything the student may wish to learn.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Schedule coordination between teacher and student.
Time the student intends to dedicate to practice.
Goals of guitar performance.