Guitar Lessons in Bakerstown, PA

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

In all of my teaching, I combine my students' interests with the leading pedagogy practices in string education to develop the foundational skills of the instrument as well as a fondness for it. There are several method books that I use such as Suzuki, Schroeder's Cello Etudes, and Fiddler's Philharmonic, however, I tailor each lesson path to each student based on student interest as well as proper sequencing. I generally start with these method books, especially for cello, for beginning students. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As for my educational pedigree, I was graduated cum laude from Boston's Berklee College of Music (1979); earned a Master's Degree in Music Theory from Duquesne University (1987); and was engaged in post-graduate studies in Music Theory at the University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music (1987-90). I know have much to offer any interested student. I very much enjoy taking beginning level students, ensuring they "learn it right the first time." I recently had a high school student who placed 3rd in the Philadelphia Classical Guitar Society Competition with less than 4 years of study with me. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Conga Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My number one rule for teaching is patience and setting small goals each week. Every student should want to pick up the instrument days after the lesson. Seeing someone learn a song and playing it through correctly is a mini miracle. Progress through repetition and different exercises has been a high yield of success in my personal experiences. Praise for when a student fulfills a goal goes a far way in future lessons. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet

My main repertoire for teaching comes from William's Levitt's "A Modern Method for Guitar". It comes with Three Volumes, and from beginner to intermediate anywhere in the book is a great place to start! From basic music reading to learning different positions, I believe that these books provide a cornerstone for even the more advanced players to refresh on in the beginning! I also strongly encourage students to bring in whatever songs or pieces they are passionate about and allow myself to build a curriculum based on their tastes and musical preferences. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students, we will go over the basics of single-note playing, as well as basic chords. We will also cover basic rhythms, so they can build up to playing their favorite songs. There are also many ways to be creative with music, and we may also play some musical games to make practicing more fun. If students are interested in composing or song-writing, I can assist with that as well. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a highly accomplished contemporary guitarist and music teacher. I have extensive knowledge and experience in music. My critically acclaimed recordings have been nominated for music awards by grammy winning artists. My music publishing company is one of the highest rated providers of music lessons and entertainment in the region. I have performed at The Duquesne University School of Music, and at The Carnegie Mellon Museum, I graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a B.A, in the humanities with a music minor. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Teaching style: having the student focus on simplicity...focus on practice, practice, practice....focus on enjoying the lesson, not dreading it. I will assess the students' needs simply by having a conversation first. Then ask some basic questions about what music style is appealing to them. Most important is that whatever the student's level is, just feel comfortable, relaxed and look forward to this wonderful journey that is called "Playing the Guitar"!    Keep in mind, my schedule is flexible. Read More