About
Hi there! My name is Manuel Rodriguez and I am classical guitarist in the Milwaukee, WI area. I am here teaching for the Latino Arts String Program and at Maranatha Baptist Univeristy. I have a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Guitar Performance from Texas A&M Univeristy and a Master of Music from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Before coming here, I performed in Texas as a freelance mariachi musician and played lead guitar for my church's choir. I am mostly trained in classical guitar and latin music, but I am also fluent in music theory, pop, and a bit of rock. I actively perform in the Milwaukee area and this year I will begin a duo with my fiance and Ukrainian violinist, Iuliia Mykolyk. My teachers include Dr. Isaac Bustos and Maestro Rene Izquierdo. I have performed for international classical guitarists and traveled to Spain to give a series of concerts.
I have been teaching since 2012. At this time my studio consists of about 15 students from the ages of 6-17. I am mostly teaching youger musicians today, but all ages and levels are welcome. I am in love with music, and I will happily share my knowlege with you. I truly enjoy teaching and meeting new music lovers. I look forward to hearing from you!
Best wishes.
Feel free to check out:
Instagram for clips: @manuelitoguitarra
Youtube for videos: Manuel Rodriguez Almeida
Facebook for news/upcoming events: Manuel Rodriguez Almeida
or email me at [email protected] for questions
My main goal and the best reward is to see a student's enthusiasm, curiosity, understanding, and connection to music grow as we learn and play music together.
Specialties
Musical styles
Guitar style
Has instrument
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Photos and videos
Reviews
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I usually evaluate the level and learn the student's interests with the guitar. From there I make sure to cover theoretical, technical, and musical aspects of their playing per lesson.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelors of Arts in Music from Texas A&M University and a Masters of Music from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee. I have studied classical guitar with Nicaraguan guitarist Isaac Bustos and Cuban virtuoso Rene izquierdo. I had master classes with amazing guitarist such as Zoran Dukic, Aniello Desiderio, Adam Holzman, William Kanengeiser, and others. My main income comes from teaching at institutions such as the Latino Arts Strings Program and Maranatha Baptist University. I am also an active performer and know the field.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
STANDARD LESSONS-
30min- $30
45min- $40
60min- $60
ONLINE LESSONS- (SKYPE)
30min- $20
45min- $30
60min- $50
*Contact for lesson packages*
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching seven years ago when friends began to ask me for lessons. Then I got students by word of mouth.
What types of students have you worked with?
The type of students I have had include:
-young kids learning for the first time
-beginners with very little experience
-experienced high schoolers looking for training for university auditions
-students interested in arranging music for their church/bands
-Music hobbyists like surgeons, lawyers, engineers, priests, etc...
*note: I welcome students of all ages and levels
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I just proposed to my girlfriend in December! I am very exited becuase we are both active musicians and we are about to launch a guitar/violin duo very soon! You can listen to some of our performances by searching on Youtube: "Manuel Rodriguez and Iuliia Mykolyk"
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would advise to search very carefully and to choose a teacher wisely. Quality is very important.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should have a goal in mind. What do you want to learn and why? motivation, curiosity, patience, discipline, and drive are the key to mastering an instrument.