Guitar Lessons in Mount Rainier, MD

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

The first time that we meet, I'll sit down with a new student and ask them about their musical experience and goals so that we can tailor the lessons to their individual needs and so that I can adjust my expectations accordingly. I am very flexible with my approach! During subsequent lessons, I will introduce the student to some basic concepts for their choice instrument(I teach piano, voice, or guitar), bel canto, Marchesi method(s), etc. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

Michael has over 8 years of experience teaching students from age 6 through adult, from directing large ensembles (70+) to private lessons. He specializes in teaching singing, but also has taught beginning guitar and piano lessons, composition, music theory and history, and digital recording. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

I have been playing guitar and singing for 20 years. I have formal guitar training from John Jennings (of Mary Chapin Carpenter) and Tom Giata (One Life to Live, All My Children, etc.). I also have had formal vocal training from Matt Kramer (Saigon Kick). I am certified to teack Piano, Guitar and Voice beginner and intermediate levels. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Cello Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is informed by trauma-informed care and a student-led philosophy. This means that I take into account the frustration that learning a new instrument can entail, and use therapeutic techniques to make sure my students are regulated during these moments of frustration. I provide structure and guidance for my students, but give them opportunities for free exploration, decision making, and leadership throughout a lesson. During lessons, I like to emphasize practice techniques and thinking outside the box when approaching difficult or new musical content. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I utilize every instruction manual possible as well as my own experience from 15 years of teaching in the classroom. I am able to differentiate for students with special needs that include developmental delay, accommodation, honors, and gifted. I specialize in classroom instruction as well as private lessons. Depending on student needs and wants, I tailor a specific learning plan to help students progress beyond current skill levels. I make every effort to give students experience in new genres and reinforce knowledge in familiar genres. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

I never want to pressure or overwhelm a student with too much information or expectation, because instead of the instruction being seen as a challenge, it is interpreted as an unenjoyable command, and that discourages the student from practicing to meet their goals, instead of motivating and inspiring them. What I find works best is relating lessons to popular current music, further exploring the bridge of dynamics that make up the songs that the student enjoys. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods depend both on the experience and interests of the student. Generally, I hope that students acquire enough skills that they can begin teaching themselves. This involves basic technical abilities, understanding of the layout of the guitar, basic reading skills, ear training skills, understanding of music theory, and rhythm skills. I believe that once a student can begin learning on their own time is when real growth happens through practice. Read More