About
I've been teaching guitar and piano lessons for over 20 years to kids and adults. I was a United Methodist music/youth director in Alabama in the late 80's and in Texas in the 90's, so most of my students came from churches I worked with. I'm comfortable with many different instruments, but the 2 I have studied most are guitar and piano.
It is fun and exciting to take a student from total beginner to a place where he/she is not embarrased to perform in a public place like a coffee house, open mic, or a family member's wedding/barmitzva/etc. I've been blessed and honored to help a dozen or more young players achieve this.
website: barrykaymusic.net
facebook.com/barry.kay.771
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Alexandra A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I need to see what they know about music, so I ask them to play something, anything really, and take it from there. Usually they have a few particular pieces they would like to learn to play. I can usually listen and figure it out pretty quickly. I also have many books and copies of music to pull from to help them learn.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a B. A. in classical guitar perfomance (piano was my secondary instrument.)
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Price per lesson varies depending upon lesson length and how far I have to travel. I accept paypal, venmo, and zelle. Cash is also fine. I'm not able to take credit or debit cards.
No charge for cancellations, but please let me know 24 hours in advance if possible.
How did you get started teaching?
I think I was in college when some friends asked me to help them learn to play guitar. Then later some folks who heard me play piano in church asked me for piano lessons.
What types of students have you worked with?
Kids and adults. Classical, folk, rock, country, jazz ...
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I had one student in her 60's that was told she had no musical talent, but she wanted to use classical guitar as a way to draw closer to God in prayer/meditation/worship. She worked really hard to learn a handful of simple pieces by Sor, Guiliani, and Dowland. She played at a student showcase I planned & hosted at the church where I worked at the time, along with my other students. Her husband was very proud of her for being brave enough to perform publicly. He wanted me to have her guitar after she passed away a few months ago; and although it isn't the most expensive guitar, it's very valuable to me for this reason.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Don't expect your teacher to work a miracle and make you a good player if you aren't willing to put the time and work in. As the old saying goes: "It's easier to steer a moving car!" Take initiative and you'll get more out of your lessons.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Why do I want to play? How strong is my drive to learn?
What styles do I want to play?