Guitar Lessons in Corbett, OR

Instruments: Piano Guitar Flute Ukulele Recorder

My teaching approach is tailored to the interests and goals of each student, but always includes fundamentals such as scales, strength-building exercises, rudiments of theory, and ear training. Some of the method books I've used include the Faber "Piano Adventures" series, Alfred and Bastien series, and Hanon's The Virtuoso Pianist, among others. I always supplement these materials with arrangements and transcriptions of popular songs and classical pieces, along with original exercises designed to teach specific styles and techniques. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Conga Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I encourage students to focus on their personal expression and growth as a musician. While I select pieces for students based on their skill level and ability to take challenges effectively, students are given the freedom to browse their own musical library or lexicon to perform music they enjoy or is moving to them. Since many modern songs can be found without sheet music or proper notation for each instrument, I arrange pieces and songs for students' instruments as close to the recorded version as possible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele

I generally split lessons into three sections, 1/3 with chords, 1/3 scales, 1/3 with songs, but every student is different, for example, If your goal is to strictly learn chords to sing folks songs over, I will emphasize more chord reading and learning time. If you want to play leads, I will spend more time emphasizing scales to help you learn how to improvise. There are also other excercises we can do like rhythm reading (just with clapping, no instrument) transcription/listening, and harmonic analysis. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

- Patience: It is key to take our time to take in what is presented to us. If there is something that is a new piece of music that presents a rhythmic difficulty. Let's analyze it and figure it out together. - Breaking down: As explained above to play something really well, we need to understand and "master" all parts and the whole. It not only facilitates the performance but also gives a sense of detail and belonging. - Guitar Circle Techniques: I spend 14 years working with guitar circles worldwide. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For younger students and those just starting out, I will usually start with a basic introduction to their instrument, get them acquainted with it and how to properly play the instrument before moving on to basic scales and beginner songs. As for more experienced and older students, I try to figure out what their goals are as a musician and guide the instruction based on those goals and ensuring that things remain engaging as well as educational. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele

I have been playing music in many kinds of bands and ensembles since the early 1980's. In the late 80's and early 90's I was the drummer for the Seattle grunge band, "Violet Grey." After moving to Portland to go to college I played in the Concordia University String Ensemble and a number of rock bands, including, "Apostolic Tackle-Box," "Andy's Dandies," and "the Quick." I played in the folk duo, "Agile Grapefruit," and I have led praise bands at a number of local churches. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I've been teaching guitar from the time I got my driver's license at 16 years old. Throughout my teens and my college years I worked as a freelancer, teaching students in their homes. After college I spent several summers teaching group lessons at a family summer resort as well as spending some time teaching in a guitar shop in Los Angeles. These days I teach students locally in Southern Oregon as well as students all around the world through Skype! Read More