About
I am a musician, performer, songwriter, and producer with for over 50 years experience. I teach Blues guitar. The Blues is a powerful form that gave birth to Rock n' Roll. Lessons will cover the mechanics of playing, as well as reading music, theory, history, and the rhythmic attributes of the blues. I feel its important to understand the music and the people who made it as well as how to play it. Whether you want to learn more about The Blues or build a foundation to pursue other forms, this is a great place to start.
I love helping my students grow and sharing the knowledge and experience I have gained over 50 years as a musician. Music is a labor of love, and I want to share that love in the hopes that my students will absorb it and carry it with them.
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Ray G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first lesson is usually a lttle longer. I want to understand the student's needs, abilities and interests. If its a beginner with no experience, we'll talk and I give the student some exercises. If it's a more advanced student, the lesson will depend on that person's abilities and what they want to learn. Generall speaking I will start with sme basic Blues forms and focus on the various rhythms.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have studied classical guitar, theory, Jazz, and of course, Blues. I have on and off throughout my life. Sharing the knowledge of music happens in many was...not only as lessons, but at jams and performaces. I have been schooled in The Blues in the clubs of Oakland and Chicago.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$35/beginners
$45/Intermediate & advanced
How did you get started teaching?
Teachhing is just a natural outgrowth of playing. At some oint it becmes important to share the weath...
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with all types of students, but I work best with adults and teenagers...not so good with young children.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
In January, I attended the International Bues Festival in Memphis. Blues artists from all over the world attended and competed to win. All the cubs on Beale Street were packed with crowds and great shows. I met and saw some great artists and shows. A wonderful event and a great place to network.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I woud say first the student should have a clear goal: learn to play the guitar/learn to play lead guitar/ get better/learn a specific genre or style (like The Blues)/etc.,.
The next step is to look for a teacher that can help you attain your goal.
Finally, the instructor should be someone you feel comfortable communicating with--you need to be able to trust your teacher so you can communicate effectively so that he or she can understand you needs and challenges and help you work thrugh them.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Student should thnk about how imortant it is that the learn the instrument, how much tme they are willing to send practicing? I always tell my students t s better to practice 5 minutes a day than once a week. Does the student have a decent instrument? You don't need to spend piles of money, a but poorly made or poorly maintained insturment may be hard to play. But most imoirtantly, Is what the teacher offers the right thng for the student? It doesn't hurt to talk to someone before hiring them. Not every teacher will be right for every student. Different strokes...