About
Music producer and performer Tom Foley has been teaching guitar for over 20 years. Learn how to play guitar in a simple and easy yet fun method created by Tom. Instead of learning theory on one string for a month and moving to the second string the next month; why not learn chords and songs right away. There are two types of students and this is the point that most other teachers don't get; one student wants to just learn how to play their favorite songs and the other type of student wants to learn everythng including intensive music theory. So the problem is that most other teachers are going to teach you that old method of learning on one string at a time until you are bored and quit. I teacher theor and how to read music as well but I teach people to play chords and play full songs right away. Positive reinforcement. It works.
I love seeing the expression on someone's face when they can do something special on an instrument. It's great to see a student's realize they're actually playing music including music THEY like. Seeing that smile on their face and knowing that you've taught and given someone a skill to play music. It's also great to see someone know that they can play a guitar and know that it will calm them down and feel better. Teaching music is one of the greatest things a person can do. I truly enjoy it.
Highlights
Payment methods
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 spend a few minutes figuring out what they know and teach according to their experience and level while making it easy and fun.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been producing music for a long time (commercials, film, video, records, singles, etc..). I play seven instruments, write, engineer, produce and perform. I started piano at age four.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $50 for 40 minutes and teach very, very fast. With guitar, I usually can have people playing songs using full chords within a few lessons; sometimes on the first lesson. If wanted or needed, I also teach advanced guitar including theory.
How did you get started teaching?
Someone asked me to teach them piano when I was fifteen. That was the seed that was planted inside. I decided to teach guitar because bsaically... I enjoy it. It makes me happy to teach people a skill that puts a smile on their face. I have worked in finance, computers and technology and teaching music pretty much is the most enjoyable thing I do. Think about this one thing; do you want to take lessons from someone that loves what they do (me) or do you want to take lessons from someone that's been doing this for a long time but who is also very unhappy, bored and tired with what they do? I enjoy teaching and giving people a talent that not only helps them feel good and relax but is good for the brain (learning a new instrument).
What types of students have you worked with?
All ages (from three years old to ninety) and all skill levels.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I wrote, performed and recorded an album and then produced a music video for two of the singles last year. It was hard work but people seem to enjoy the "end product" which makes me happy. In the past I created all the music that went with a series of children's books. The company made $14 million on that project.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure you are serious about learning. Make sure you have a guitar. And know a few simple things:
1. People who charge $20 per hour are usually kids who say "Play this. Do what I'm doing." They never explain how things work or why but teach poor error filled versions of songs.
2. Many other teachers will teach you using an old method which makes you learn theory on one string at a time. After 6 months the student can play melodies on 2-3 strings but still never learns to play full chords. I get many referrals from these students because they get bored and quit.
3. You need to practice at least 10-15 minutes a day; 30-40 is best but 10-15 will do. If you can't do at least 10 minutes a day, don't think you will ever be any good at guitar or piano (or anything for that matter). Ten minutes isn't asking for much so ask yourself if you have the time.
4. Contact me for advice on getting your first guitar. I love to help.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
See my comments in the last section. Thanks