About
BIO
Nick Behnan is a guitarist composer and producer from Detroit, Mi. He’s toured as guitarist for national artists including The Hip Hop 50th anniversary tour feat. Doug E Fresh, Slick Rick, Big Daddy Cane, KRS ONE, Rakim, and EPMD. Other artists include Carl Thomas, Keith Washington, Flavor Flav, 2021 winner of The Voice Cam Anthony, Angie Stone, Motown legend Martha Reeves, Johny Gill, and Eric Roberson. He had the honor of performing with Greg Phillinganes (Michael Jackson/Stevie Wonder/Toto) as a part of Detroit Music Weekends tribute to the Jackson 5. Nick also toured nationally as the guitarist for Pride And Joy The Marvin Gaye Musical.
His original projects The Infatuations, JIVA, The Lows, and solo releases Nick Behnan can be streamed/downloaded on all major platforms. The Infatuations have received over a dozen Detroit Music Awards and shared bills with legendary artists like Sheila E, George Clinton, and Rusted Root. The Lows opened for major rock acts Candlebox, Stone Temple Pilots, Puddle Of Mud and Pop Evil and landed a feature placement on the Xbox/PlayStation game NASCAR Heat 3.
Nick also composes and produces music for TV/Film with tracks regularly featured on Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, NBC, Fox and most all other major networks. Some notable shows include Mayans M.C., Jane The Virgin, Chicago Fire, Mayer Of Kingstown, Dance Moms, and Bones.
Teaching Background/Philosophy
I have a degree from Michigan State University and have been teaching privately for over 15 years while working as a full time performing & touring musician.
I enjoy working with students of all ages and skill levels from beginners to professionals seeking performance coaching.
I teach the fundamental concepts and techniques of music in a uniquely clear and concise manor. I teach a balanced mix of music theory, improvisation, technique, songs, and composition.
I have an understanding and professional experience with almost all styles of music (Blues, Rock, Funk, Soul, Gospel, Latin, CCM, Jazz, Metal, Hip Hop, Classical, RnB, Country) and I teach my students music THEY want to learn.
Most importantly I make sure its fun for my students and that they are getting the maximum fulfillment and enjoyment from learning their instrument.
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
Peredur J.
Grant G.
Mark W.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I typically start by assessing where the student is at both from a skill level and music knowlodge perspective. And then we work together to develop a game plan that will align with the students goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
over 30 years experience as a musician. I began taking classical piano lessons at the age of 8. Started recording and performing original music at age 15. Studied music performance and education at Michigan State University at age 18-21. And have been performing, teaching, recording, and publishing my own music ever since.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes I charge 25 per half hour lesson, and then this price is adjusted for 45 minute or hour lessons.
How did you get started teaching?
I actually started teaching privately while attending Michigan State University around 2001 and discovered I have a unique talent at teaching and mentoring people musically, and I'm able to help people see noticable results quickly.
What types of students have you worked with?
all ages, all levels. Ive had lo term students from age 5 to 85. Ive also taken on several intermediate students who have been taking lessons for a while somewhere else but not showing much improvement. And I've pretty much always been successful as long as the student really wants to learn.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Opening up for the legendary Sheila E at Chene Park in Detroit!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
To meet with him/her and see how it goes. You never really know how you will connect with a teacher until you meet each other. Usually its obvious from the start if its a match.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What their goals are, and how much they are willing to dedicate to it both from a time and energy standpoint.