Guitar Lessons in Shorewood, VA

Instruments: Guitar

For beginning students I usually encourage a method book such as Mel Bay's Modern Guitar Method or a Fingerstyle method book. At the same time I introduce basic chords and try to introduce songs as early as possible to show the practicality of all that is being learned. For intermediate students I ask what would like to be learned and what techniques they would like to see themselves doing in the near future. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

My main goal right off the bat for my students is to get them playing from the very first lesson, starting with basic chords, and even have them practice a simple riff or lick from a song that they might recognize. In my philosophy, because this is how I was taught, it is important to keep the student interested, having fun, while still learning the things that they may consider "boring." I do this by implementing songs that they may know, or songs that they want to learn, and use that to teach what chords the song is using, what scales it might be using, and from that, have them practice the song and chord or scale accordingly. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Ukulele Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is natural, relaxed and yet, very enthusiastic, all at the same time. I have patience in abundance and my continual student affirmation is well received. I give most attention to personalizing instruction for each of my students. My passion for musical expression is contagious and readily shared. It is a joy to teach music, to contribute to the growth and delight that I witness through a student's progress. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Harmonica Ukulele Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methodologies for teaching will vary based on different factors such as age and level of musical knowledge. The number one thing I try and do for my students is make sure they have FUN and ENJOY the process of learning. I do like to use established books that focus on the fundamentals of music such as the Hal Leonard Guitar Method Books. Literature like that is very informative, but also a bit clinical at times, so I always like to find out what my students want to play and tailor lessons towards their specific goals. Read More

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

My methods will depend to a degree upon each individual student's musical tastes and ambitions. For example, I would put much more focus on developing picking hand foundations for a classical guitarist while the fretting hand would receive more early attention for the metal shredder. This said, there are common general goals that can be set for all guitarists as they track and improve their skills. The guitar is a physical tool, and it is learned as such: the student learns how to handle the tool, how to carry out the various uses of the tool, and how to apply the tool's uses to the art they wish to create. Read More

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

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs... Read More