Guitar Lessons in Portland, OR

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

With new students, my first goal is to surmise what they have learned thus far. I then "fill in the gaps" to get them up to speed, which depending on their skill level, can take one lesson or many lessons. For younger students who need more inspiration to be able to do that sort of catch-up work, I attempt to balance the fun with the learning. Learning instrument technique can be tedious, so I do my best to help my students be aware of their weaknesses and play to their strengths, to work smarter, not always harder. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Drums Synthesizer Ukulele Recorder Tuba Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon English Horn Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My philosophy for quality music education has three main parts: appreciation, practice, literacy. In no particular order... 1. The first part is exposure/appreciation of different musics, cultures and styles: The loving of music This includes: Active listening skills, genre playlists, history of solo repertoire/composers 2. The second part is the practice/performance of music, instruments, and vocally: The doing of music This includes: Physically clapping rhythms, singing, playing, performing, improvising 3. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

Each student is at a different level, and therefore requires different teaching methods. I like to implement the Hanon exercises for scales and warm-ups, also focusing on things like scales and arpeggios. For the guitar, I like to incorporate these concepts with chordal exercises as well, such as playing progressions to let the student's fingers grow accustomed to their forms. I then let the student tell me what his or her focus is, such as theoretical, classical, or popular. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Bass Guitar

My teaching experience stems from 5 years ago, where I would share whatever knowledge of music i could with those around me. In those five years I have made it my duty to make myself a resource to all musicians around me. I believe that consistent practice, and lessons is the key to success with music. More importantly I in making music a healthy outlet for emotion, and self expression. Read More

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

My teaching experience dates back to my high school years, as I assisted in arranging and directing performances for my high school's Varsity Men's chorus. During my undergraduate years, I was involved in the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities' School of Music University Singers, Chamber Singers, Gospel Choir, and Madrigal Singers; these groups allowed me to serve as a section leader, soloist, and as a conductor for classes on advanced choral conducting. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a relaxed and easy-going teacher. I am good at staying focused but also fun to be around! I know that learning to play an instrument carries a unique set of challenges for each person, and these can be frustrating. Because I've experienced these challenges myself, my primary goal is to be there for my students, guiding them through the difficult moments as well as the joyful. I care about the student's progress more than sticking to a pre-determined rule book. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele

Practice, of course, is important to learning any skill. But if a love of the instrument is there, practicing shouldn't be too much of a chore. I try to never give my students too much material at once, so as to frustrate them to the point of not wanting to play anymore. On the other hand, it is important to present them with challenges to keep them moving forward. First and foremost is to foster that love of music in them through enthusiasm and example. Read More