About
Highlights
Reviews
Alexander P.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
We make contact, and discuss your goals. Next, I will explain my instruction method, and ask how you feel about it. Once we agree on the best approach for you, we can schedule your lesson time. During the lesson, I will present the material clearly, give you an opportunity to work on the concepts, and encourage you to practice.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Shenandoah University's Conservatory of Music
Teaching at Authentic Guitars since 2003
Private lessons with many teachers
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
30.00 per half hour lesson in store or online.
In home lesson and group lesson cost is based on location and length of the lesson.
Please call 757-332-4711 for in home and group lesson details.
How did you get started teaching?
After college, I began teaching many of my friends and their children. In 2003, I joined with Authentic Guitars and have been teaching there since then. Mike Hansen, the owner, was my guitar teacher when I was a teenager learning to play guitar.
What types of students have you worked with?
Ages 2 and up. Autistic, ADD, ADHD, and many others, from novice to advanced experience in many genres of music.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I conducted the Virginia Symphony a while back, but more recently a former student came by the store and said she was now at UVA studying music and and on her college application she stated that learning to play guitar had been the biggest influence in her career choice. A couple days ago I was teaching an eight year old boy to count out loud and subdivide the beat. He got very excited, and it is a high reward for me to see someone enjoy learning!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone with Classical Guitar and Jazz Theory education that makes learning enjoyable.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Is it worth it to learn to read music?
What study materials will I need for lessons?
What equipment will l need for the lesson?
What would I like to achieve with the guitar?