Junior Kauffman Music Inc
About
I have been a touring musician for 15 years fronting my band playing guitar (acoustic and electric) /harmonica/and singing lead vocals. I have recorded three albums of original material and have been commissioned to write music for websites and weddings. I have been playing the guitar for 25 years and have played multiple instruments (bass guitar/ukulele/banjo) in other bands. I have taught many students (including my 13 year old daughter which wasn't easy ;-) at many skill levels and have taught songwriting lessons. I have a 9 year old son and 13 year old daughter and have played for their classes over the years as well as coaching baseball and softball so I get along great with kids.
Music has been everything to me since I was a kid. My older brothers and my sister inspired me from a very young age and I've had a soundtrack to my life ever since. It sounds corny but I truly believe that music has a healing quality and is absolutely essential for the soul. Being able to teach folks to play the basics, their favorite songs, and express themselves through songwriting means the world to me. There's nothing like seeing a student when something clicks.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I assess a students skill level and develop a specific lesson plan to help them achieve their goals. My approach varies by age, ability, instrument, musical style, and commitment. I like to inspire and motivate out of the gate with challenging yet attainable benchmarks. My hope is to foster a love for what it feels like to play and write songs - not just memorization.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been a touring musician for 15 years fronting my band (The Devil Doves - check it out, don't the name scare you ;- )playing guitar (acoustic and electric) /harmonica/and singing lead vocals. I have recorded three albums of original material and have been commissioned to write music for websites and weddings. I have been playing the guitar for 25 years and have played multiple instruments (bass guitar/ukulele/banjo) in other bands. I have taught many students (including my 13 year old daughter which wasn't easy ;-) at many skill levels and have taught songwriting lessons. I have a 9 year old son and 13 year old daughter and have played for their classes over the years as well as coaching baseball and softball so I get along great with kids.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
* $30.00 for a 30 minute lesson ($35 for in home)
* $45.00 for a 45 minute lesson ($50 for in home)
* $60.00 for a 60 minute lesson ($65 for in home)
10% off for a block of 4 lessons / 1 lesson per week (payment required upfront after initial session)
20% off for a block of 8 lessons / 1 lesson per week (payment required upfront after initial session)
How did you get started teaching?
I was getting asked by friends and fans to show them a few things and it escalated from there once I knew I had a knack for it. Working with my kids and their friends only inspired me more. I started participating in songwriter sessions and realized I could bring a lot to the table and wanted to mentor others.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with students at all levels, from 8 year old kids who have never picked up a guitar, to peers who have their own bands and tour regularly. I've taught the basics of song structure and melody as well as arranging compositions for artists to record - playing by ear/tablature/music theory/cover songs and original expositions. It's incredibly rewarding to see the progress students can make at any level with the right guidence and effort.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A recent personal event that was really special to me was my daughter playing a set at Comfest (Columbu Community Festival. She sang a mix of originals and covers and accompanied herself on guitar.
A recent exciting event for my band is finishing recording our third album and the run of festivals we've played.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
1. Make sure you have a rapport with your teacher. You should feel comfortable working together to achieve your goals.
2. Make sure your teacher is fluent in the style you want to play/write.
3. Make sure your teacher knows your goals (playing by ear/songwriting/playing live/etc) and gives you a lesson outline to succeed.
4. Compare rates.
5. Does the teacher do in home lessons (if that's something you need)?