About
I have been a professional performing guitarist and bassist for over 50 years. After attending the Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, MD where I grew up, I began teaching, tutoring and mentoring hundreds of students over the next 40 years at various music/performing arts schools as well as private lessons, from Maryland to Florida. I am currently still performing and teaching around the Charleston, SC area, as well as writing an instructional book for aspiring jazz guitarists.
I teach acoustic & electric guitar, electric bass, ukulele, baritone ukulele and introductory piano. My methodology centers around the individual's musical desires, then they are given the techniques, skills and theory, to make those desires a reality.
My preferred styles are Classical, Jazz, Blues, Funk, Rock, Pop, Folk and Country.
I also have a Facebook profile where you can access referrals, recommendations and photos. You can also check out YouTube for a few videos with the Oscar Rivers Jazz group playing sold out shows at the 2019 Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival and a special weekend accompanying the late jazz saxophonist, Ritchie Cole.
A lengthy BIO is available upon request.
I love imparting over 50 years of performing and teaching experience to aspiring guitarists and bassists.
Over the years of learned a number of ways to make the learning and physical aspects easier in order to maximize the student's potential.
I've taught hundreds of students and performed live over 1000 times, which gives me plenty of information to help any potential student.
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
MASHEKA T.
Jennifer R.
Dawn J.
Gina F.
Don H.
Ken Y.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Assess their musical desires, then provide them with the techniques, skills and theory to make their desires a reality all while giving them the ability to learn on their own.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Attended The Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, MD where I grew up, then spent the next 50+ years as a professional performer on guitar and electric bass and 40+ years as a teacher, tutor and mentor at various performing arts schools from Maryland to Florida.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$70/hour, $35/half hour weekly online
$80/hour, $40/half hour biweekly (every other week) online
$80/hour, $40/half hour at your home
$60/45min online or at your home
How did you get started teaching?
Initially started helping friends become better players, then got invited to teach at a school of music while living in Florida. It also started as an alternative income when performing was slow but eventually became full time.
What types of students have you worked with?
7-70 year olds.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Two sold out shows with the Oscar Rivers Quartet at the 2019 Piccolo Spoleto Arts Festival in Charleston, SC and as bassist for two sold out shows with the lengedary alto saxophonist Richie Cole, also in Charleston, SC. Played along side the Grammy winning artists Ranky Tanky at the Awendaw, SC music Festival in 2022.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for a patient, knowledgable and experienced teacher who listens to the needs of the student.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Their short and long term desired musical direction.