About
The focus in the lessons are in learning popular songs, rather than taking time going over music theory up front. The music theory is integrated into the lessons while learning the songs. This model is set up so that the rewarding milestone of actually being able to play a familiar song will leave beginners less likely to quit.
The part of teaching that gives me fulfillment is when a student achieves a milestone in their musical pursuit. For example, when they finally grasp a complex point of musical theory or when they are finally able to play a chord progression they have been struggling to master.
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Reviews
LaShawn S.
Jeff G.
Dan B.
Reid T.
Cynthia G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The typical process for working with a student begins with a comprehensive assessment based on three compoments: 1) Skill level, 2) Muscial Goals, 3) Music Genre of Choice.
Based on this assessment, a lesson plan around the first song of choice will be provided and divided among the number of lessons available between the student and instructor.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Although I have no formal education in music, I do have 30 years of experience teaching, playing and performing as a guitarist. I have taught lessons over the past 20 years in both private and music store settings.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons run at $30 per 30 minute sessions and $50 for one hour sessions.
I also provide lessons on the use of electrical musical devices. These are $65 for a one hour session. You'll learn about amplifiers, speakers and cabinets, pickups and strings, and other parts that make up a rig, to gain expertise that will guide you in achieving a sound that is musical and meets the requirements of the music you choose to study.
How did you get started teaching?
I was offered a position at a local music store to provide guitar lessons from the piano instructor. It was a chance meeting and the instructor had heard me play and asked if I was interested. This was over 20 years ago.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked primarily with beginners. Although, I have worked with seasoned musicians that were looking for a few lessons to help get them out of a rut.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I think the most recent event that I am fond of was a lesson on the use of musical equipment that a student was having trouble achieving a particular tone. After the lesson, the student was able to dial in the tone he wanted, he has grateful and we deemed the lesson a success.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would ask the student first to consider their goals and objectives. Then I would ask them to find a way to list them out so that they could communicate them to prospective teachers. If available, I recommend them to look for references or online examples of the teacher's curriculum that would make the best match.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The questions that students can ask themselves should revolve around their goals and objectives. The goals should be broad in nature and long term while the objectives should be short term, specific and measurable. When the student approaches a prospective teacher, they should have these written down or memorized as they ask questions about lessons.