Academy Of Guitar

Discovering the primary interest of the student. I'm not a fan to attempting to "force" students to do it "my way." I find what their level is and develop a program specific to their needs. I never use a "one size fits all" approach. It doesn't work. Encouraging the student's desires while providing information that makes that desire a reality, is my preferred process for teaching. 

I've been teaching music for a very long time. I hold a Bachelor of Music in Music Composition from Pacific Lutheran University as well as a Masters degree from Boston University. I have studied with notable professionals, including an Emmy winning film composer. I've written hundreds of songs as well as large scale orchestral works. I am currently completeing a full scale stage musical and preparing to record it. 

I typically charge for lessons in four week groups. On occassion there are five weeks in a month. On that day, we will normally not have a lesson. My pricing can vary a bit, depending on what is being studied and what is involved in a specific situation. Once a price is stated, however, I won't raise that price for as long as you remain a student.

I came out of the US Navy and began substituting for a friend. He eventually needed to move on, and I took over his student load and have beening doing it ever since.

I have worked with just about every kind of student one can imagine. I have worked with people who have had severe learning challenges as well as those who have been legally blind. I have dealt with folks who have had serious physical injuries. My only critieria is: if the student wants to learn, I will find a way to make that happen. I don't turn anyone down who has desire. 

I stay pretty busy teaching. Between my private studio, Academy of Guitar and my teaching position at Pierce College, my time it pretty well tied up. For this reason there are not too many "events" on my agenda. However, I do love to go to concerts of all musical styles whenever the opportunity arises. I've recently seen Mellisa Etheridge in concert. I've also see such legends as the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd plus too many others to mention. If there is music involves, I'll love being involved with it!

After researching credentials, look for chemistry. No matter how talented the teacher or fast of a learner the student is, it will all be for naught if there is no chemistry between student and teacher. For me, this is paramount.

How long have you been doing this?

Where have you done this?

What is your background and education?

What are your fees and will those fees vary over time?

Do you love what you do?

Don't be afraid to grill your prospective teacher. You have every right to know as much as possible about the person who will be relieving you of your hard earned cash!