About
Music is truly my passion in life. I've been playing guitar, performing, and studying music for 50 years! I love to open new ideas and pathways to students and encourage musical exploration and expression on the guitar.
I graduated top in my class at the Musicians Institute of Technology in Hollywood, CA. Having the opportunity when I was younger to study with Robben Ford, Larry Carlton, and many other industry pros at MI was an incredible experience. Frank Gamble was my private instructor at MI. I recently studied with jazz icon, Pat Martino for an unbelievable lesson.
I am currently professor of guitar at Lipscomb University and jazz ensemble conductor.
I have 7 commercially released CDs in the contemporary jazz world with many top 5 radio hits generated from those. My upcoming release is a Latin rock project with jazz and pop overtones. My music is heard world wide on radio and television as well as in major motion pictures. I have 4 Grammy nominated records I have engineered and played on and song of the year with SESAC. I am also a producer and engineer and have worked on or produced many artists including Crystal Gayle, Yolanda Adams, and guitarist Phil Keaggy, to name a few.
My focus is contemporary jazz and rock, however, my career has lead me to play all styles of music from latin, rock, country, cajun, gospel, rockabilly, and jazz. I believe a student should expand a sense for all styles to develop a direction for their individual artistic pursuit. Developing your sound is more than the notes you play. I help the students to understand and search out THEIR sound and find their tone! It starts with your fingers, but having the knowledge of amplifiers, guitars, pedals, and all that goes into finding YOUR sound is imperative as a guitarist.
The musical journey is a lifelong trip! There is always something you can learn. I would be honored to help you accomplish and broaden your musical vocabulary for your journey!
I LOVE music! It has been my life for many years. The magic of communicating emotions through composition and performance is amazing!
Photos and videos
Reviews
Paul N.
teach. In the case of Denny, you have someone who is a renowned, crazy-busy guitarist
who finds the time (and is generous with it) to lend his passion and know-how. The guy is a
studied player with a wealth of knowledge, and he also happens to be a tone ... Show more
Keith H.
experience for me. Unlike my former music teachers, Dennys lessons had their
foundations in music theory. Instead of learning different songs I may have wanted to play,
Dennys lessons taught me how to play guitar more freely and confidently, kn... Show more
Ryan C.
His approach to teaching gave me practical ways to approach practicing the guitar so that
I could process challenging concepts and actually have fun while I grew as a player. From
theory to tone, Denny is the real deal, and his love of guitar playing is as clea... Show more
Kenneth F.
of all levels, in a way that is clearly explained and understandable. Whether you are a
beginner or an experienced player seeking growth, he is the right teacher for the job. A
true veteran player, music insider and teacher of guitar, Denny never ceases... Show more
Thomas T.
,excellent instructor. Denny makes an average player feel comfortable being around such
an outstanding musician. This makes learning an easier task. He tends towards the music
you enjoy and want to learn.Having taken lessons from a number of skilled in... Show more
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
To hear them play, discuss their ambitions, and develop a lesson outline to accomplish their goals as a musician/guitarist.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a Graduate of Musicians/Guitar Institute of Technology. 50 years of playing, studying, touring, and production. Excellent people skills in helping you reach your goals as a player.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing starts at $75 for a one hour lesson.They can be set up weekly, bi weekly, or monthly. The focus is on making you a better well-rounded player. Lessons can include setting up and checking your instrument, discussions on tone and gear, trying new gear, as well as career advice.
How did you get started teaching?
I love to mentor and share in order to encourage and expand the musical knowledge of players. I have been teaching off and on for many years.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with beginners, intermediate, to advanced. Both professional and hobbyists. I have consulted top professionals in achieving tone and "dialed" in their sound for their records.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be focused yet open to new ideas. You want a teacher who is honest and centered on your musical desires but also recognizes your musical needs. Music is FUN! It is a lifelong journey and you will not ever know it all! Learn, create, and play with other players, listen and dig deep to express! It is not all technical, but from the heart and soul!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are your short term goals?
What are your long term goals?