About
I've been playing guitar in bands and worship teams for over 20 years. I was an elementary school teacher (3rd & 5th grade) in Iowa for 4 years, and I currently teach part time. Because of my years of experience mentoring/teaching young adults and adults, teaching guitar to all ages comes easy to me. It's a joy for me to meet guitar players where they are at and help them meet their guitar goals. If you are looking for someone who is very knowledgable about the guitar, easy to work with and easy to understand, I'm your guy. I teach beginning guitar players as well as intermediates. I can teach basic guitar theory, proper hand positioning, several strumming and picking patterns, all of the basic guitar chords and "cheat" chords, etc. If you are looking to learn certain songs (rock, pop, folk, country worship/church music, etc), I can teach you to play those as well.
I would love to be part of your progress in becoming an amazing guitar player!
I enjoy watching my students fall in love with playing guitar. I really love being an encourager and a coach for people to meet their goals in guitar. It's also really cool for me to call this a "job", since I enjoy playing guitar so much.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to find out where they are at as a guitar player (what kind of training they've been given) and what their goals are as a guitar player. I don't like to waste their time in learning things they will never use.
Also, If I'm working with an elementary age student, I will take time to find out what motivates them to learn and stick with guitar playing each week.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was self-taught more than 25 years ago, and I've played guitar with some incredble guitar players, who have helped me out along the way.
How did you get started teaching?
Ever since I graduated from college many years ago, I have always been a teacher. Since I have played guitar for such a long time and am confident in my playing, I naturally desired to teach others how to play. I realized that I get a lot of joy and energy from seeing people grown in their guitar playing.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with 5 year olds, elementary school kids, high schoolers, and adults. Most of my students have either no experience or a little (1 year or less) experience.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I'm working with an 8 year old right now, who I've recentlhy found that if we write a song together, that he is very motivated to go home and practice his chords during the week. It's fun to see someone so young be so motivated to play.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure the teacher will let you learn what you want/need to learn. Make sure they speak a language that you understand and that you feel comfortable and empowered to become all that you want to be as a guitar player. Don't settle for less.