About
I love helping new musicians explore the intricate world of music theory through fundamental guitar and vocal lessons. For the last 15 years I have been on a self-lead journey to become the most proficient musician I can be and have helped several students begin their journeys as well.
I currently play live music every weekend while working full time during the week. I teach beginner musicians how to navigate the guitar, control their voices, and establish a solid foundation from which they can build a lifelong passion.
Strumming a clear chord or playing a scale properly for the first time is akin to a child taking their first steps. I find joy in accompanying my students through the difficult parts of learning a new instrument and in watching them break through their barriers.
I am always thrilled when a student is able to move on from my lessons and spread their wings as an independent musician. My main goal is to provide students the tools necessary for them to teach themselves and guide their own musical journeys.
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Eric M.
Ruthie
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Early lessons focus on getting to know the student, their personality, and their learning style. Subject matter begins with basic instrument anatomy, vocal pitch matching, posture, and ear training. These primary lessons establish a consistent structure for both myself and the student and allow me to determine the best course of action for approaching more complex topics.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have 15 years experience playing guitar, 12 years experience working with vocal ensembles, and 4 years experience working with collegiate-level musicians.
I have received training in music theory, composition, performance, vocal conditioning, guitar technique, and songwriting.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching friends in high school and continued through my undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Now that my professional life consumes more of my time, I am looking to shift to giving online lessons.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students ages 10 to 22 with varying degrees of musical experience.
Every student is different and I believe the teaching approach should reflect the learner. Some of my students have responded well to highly structured lessons, in which we explore direct ties between music theory and application. Other students have benefitted from free-form lessons which harnessed their creativity to learn in an improvised composition style instead of a more traditional structure.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be open to trying more than one teacher and more than one instrument. It's okay to look around and try different instructors or instruments to find one that fits best with your learning style and personality.