James Van Cleaf Music
About
Very few guitarists are available to teach what it takes to become proficient in demanding genres such as progressive metal, which draws influence from jazz, classical, metal, rock, and blues playing all at once. Progressive metal requires proficiency and knowledge of many musical styles and mastery of the guitar. I have experience with several aspects of music including but not limited to recording, composing, improvising, editing, mixing, mastering, marketing, etc.
Not only have I taught music, but I've taught martial arts to students from age 3 through age 12. The leadership training and experience I have earned has helped me attain many important qualities a teacher needs, like patience, communication, understanding, kindness, empathy, and passion.
I love progress. I love progressing myself and I love inspiring progress in others, especially when they have a passion and drive for what they're learning to do. The moment a student overcomes an obstacle to their musical development or learns something that makes playing guitar more enjoyable and exciting for them is one of the moments I live for more than any other.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
If you were learning guitar with me, I'd get to know you with a few back and forth questions (i.e. about your musical history, genre/style preferences, any physical limitations, goals, etc.) and then figure out where you are in your playing and where you want to go. We'd take it from there at whatever pace is comfortable and appropriate for you!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I graduated from Newark High School (Newark, DE) in 2013 studying music theory and jazz. I was in marching band all four years and served as Drum Major my senior year after completing the highly regarded musical/leadership training camp, the George Parks Drum Major Academy. I played guitar for the jazz ensemble that year and bass guitar the previous year. I also accompanied various school ensembles (theater/choir/orchestra) on guitar/bass. Upon graduating high school, I was awarded the Semper Fidelis Musical Excellence Award out of the entire senior class for unmatched passion and rapid musical growth. Additionally, I've collaborated with a Grammy-nominated guitar teacher and other professional musicians.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes! Lessons would be $20 for a half hour or $35 for an hour (add $5 per option if I need to travel to you for the lesson).
How did you get started teaching?
Friends and local musicians who have seen/heard me play or who have seen my videos have requested lessons. Others have requested I teach their children.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with a couple complete beginners and some skilled intermediate-advanced players seeking out lessons specifically in regard to my approaches to picking and rhythmic techniques.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Before finding an appropriate guitar teacher, a non complete beginner student should first determine what they would want the most help in or who inspires them. I.e. "I'd like to bend like David Gilmour from Pink Floyd," or "I'd like to play riffs with the speed, clarity, and accuracy of James Hetfield from Metallica," or "I'd like to navigate complex rhythms and time signatures like progressive metal bands without getting lost."