About
My teaching approach:
I've been playing and performing for over 20 years now. More than anything, I like to encourage others that they can play the guitar or bass. I like to see where the student currently is and cater the lessons accordingly.
My influences are:
Mostly classic rock and blues. Jimi Hendrix has and continues to have a big influence on me, as well as many other great blues artists. I grew up on the Beatles, Led Zeppelin. Went through a Bob Marley phase, a Cure phase, Depeche Mode phase, Dylan phase, Stevie Wonder phase. I've had so many influences over the years!
My guitar lessons take place in:
The student's home
Guitar lessons typically take place on these days and hours:
It just depends. My schedule is pretty open and flexible.
Guitar Techniques:
Lead guitar, Rhythm guitar, Performance, Improvisation, Reading Music, Music Theory, Scales and Exercises, Song Writing, Guidance In Equipment Selection
Your first guitar lesson with me might include the following:
I first have to gauge where the student is. Can they play the guitar already? Can they tune it? Can they tell me all the parts of the guitar? Do they know any scales? Chords? Can they read music at all? These are some of the questions I ask myself when first meeting a new student. I also figure out their overall music knowledge, what kind of music they like and what they want out of the guitar.
A guitar lesson with me might entail the following:
I'm really laid back and enjoy the time I spend with my students. I am friendly and encouraging, but I'm not a pushover either. Kids love me cause I'm gentle with them. I give weekly assignments which include jam tracks, songs and sight reading exercises (because reading is important). When the lesson opens up we do a review and go over the homework. Then we usually do a little jam. I may introduce a new song or go over one we're working with. Maybe I'll go over a new scale, arpeggios or introduce a new chord.
The qualities I look for in an ideal guitar student might include the following:
All my students are ideal because I love teaching and bringing joy to their lives.
Reviews
Ursula
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to get to know my student, what kind of music they like and what their goals are.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been playing guitar for over 20 years. Since that time I have been in numerous bands, churches and as a solo artist. I am also a singer/songwriter. In Austin I have played on 6th street several times over the years. I played lead guitar with local hip-hop artist Saul Paul. Briefly served as worship leader at Austin Powerhouse. Served as lead guitarist for 2 years at Sunrise Community Church. Played breifly with The Levites and Greater Mount Zion Baptist Church. Currently I am working towards my degree in Music Business, Performance & Technology at Austin Community College. As of this writing, I am 3 classes shy of being done. In addition, I have my own record label and publishing company. I also record and produce music in my home studio using Logic Pro X. I also play a little piano and like to use it as a tool for teaching theory. I can play the bass guitar as well and played in a funk band years ago. I can get someone started in the fundamentals of playing the bass guitar, which is a different animal from the guitar. I have a lot of experience I can pass on.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$40/hr lesson. $25/ 30 min lesson. Children don't do well with an hour usually so if they are under 12 I would not go beyond an hour unless you think your child can handle it.
How did you get started teaching?
I worked at Strait Music from 2002-2004. While there I began to teach privately to children in the Cedar Park area.
What types of students have you worked with?
Mostly kids and young adults.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone you can relate to and admire. A teacher should inspire you to be yourself and to be an artist.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Just ask your teacher what is on your mind. There are no dumb questions.