Do you teach a method?
My teaching method varies from student to student. I try to find the
needs of the student and take the student in that direction. I
strongly resist teaching a curriculum. Within the realm of music, the desire, work ethic, and musical
interests from student to student are never the same. I feel that it would be unwise of me to hand
every student the wheel of fifths, C major scale, and children's melodies first and expect them to be interested (e.g., I currently have
a student that does not want to learn music theory; she just wants to
play songs). This is why I don't have a method I use for everybody.
I don't make you learn anything you have no interest in. When the lesson
caters to the student, I learn more about teaching as well.
Do you provide learning materials?
Yes, included in each lesson is a CD which contains songs the student is/will be working on, as well as all written materials.
Who do you teach and what is your experience, including teaching of young students?
I teach every age group and ability. I have taught dozens of students for the past nine years now. I have over 20 years of performance experience dating back to playing the viola as a child; I then took on guitar,
piano/organ, basic drumming, bass, and singing; I feel that learning multiple instruments has benefited my ability to show others what I know. I teach every
style of guitar except classical (this includes modern and classic rock,
jazz, jam, pop, metal). I also teach music theory, guitar theory (scales, chord inversions, modes, etc.), improvisation, and basic piano.
Where do you teach: in a studio? your home? our home?
I make house calls and teach from home. Whatever is more convenient for you is best (there is a slight discount when you come to me).
What is your fee?
I charge $30 per half hour and $40 per hour ($5 less if you come to my home). I recommend
hour-long lessons; there is only so much that can be done in a half
hour. If you
live near me, there is no extra charge. If you live more than 20
miles from my address, I add $5 for gas.