Paul Race

Guitar - As an old-timer versed in many genres of acoustic music, I prefer to teach guitar styles that are appropriate for accompanying yourself (or other singers) on Folk, Country, and Bluegrass, as well as becoming a Worship music songleader. Emphasis is on flatpicking, beginning with simple patterns and chords, then moving toward more complex music.

I also teach students enough music theory to recognize the most common chord progressions so that they can join in on most Folk, Country, Bluegrass, or Worship tunes without music or chord charts.

If you can read music and know some music theory or are willing to learn, you will progress faster, and you will more readily adapt to related skills such as songwriting.

Banjo - I learned banjo during the Folk Revival era, when dozens of styles that are no longer played were available. If you want to accompany yourself or play simple solos on banjo, using mostly Folk and Bluegrass patterns, I can help you get past the most basic hurdles.

Saxophone - I can teach beginning to intermediate students.

Autoharp, Appalachian Dulcimer, Bass Guitar - I can teach beginning to intermediate students.

Other Skills - If desired, and if the student has progressed past the basics, I can provide other coaching, on fingerpicking, basic vocal skills, and performance skills. I can also coach you on some basic marketing principles, and help you avoid some of the traps that are set for the unwary.

I'm willing to start with anyone at any level, as long as they want to learn and are willing to work hard. When students "get it," that is, they internalize some principle that will help them be better musicians the rest of their lives, that's my best reward.

I have a workshop/studio that is separate from my house, as well as access to most instruments if you don't have one to bring yet.