Guitar Lessons in Washington, CT

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I believe in the power of the Socratic Method in which a student’s question is not greeted with a black and white answer, but rather with a line of questioning that will allow the student to arrive at the answer on their own. I have also found improvisation to be the most effective way of allowing students to express themselves and feel excited about playing. Reading music and ear training are pillars of my approach, but improvisation is where students can really find their voice. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar

I encourage each student to build a list of their favorite songs. This helps them to always have something new, and something to review. It is very rewarding to see my students being able to play one of their favorite songs from beginning to end. I also help my students create their own original songs when they are inspired to do so. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Conga Electric Guitar Djembe Acoustic Guitar

I typically start by teaching them the parts of the guitar how to hold a guitar and all the physical fundamentals including fretting notes properly etc... then I ask them what their goals are as a player if they’re interested in learning a lot of theory or just want to sing and play with their friends etc.… Then I teach them the names of the strings and tell them to memorize them as well as the dot markers on the fretboard and then I have them learn some strumming patterns and a few simple chords to get them started and then begin learning the names of the notes from open position to 12th and then learning The major scale up the neck one string at a time… And I also incorporate the use of a Metronome which I find is hugely important… Then we incorporate a simple song that they can play with four chords from there onto learning how to harmonize the major scale and then incorporate more theory… All the while assessing their needs and fixing any trouble spots they’re having… Then on to scales and more theory and More Metronome work...And every couple of lessons I teach them a new song of their choosing to make sure that they’re having fun fun fun Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching for more than 25 years and I have instructed students of many different ages and ability levels. My experience with music is now at 30+ years. I have worked as a private music tutor and have played with many local bands/musicians during that time. I've also done studio work with original acts, but I prefer performing live.  When talking with young players or those who wish to become musicians my advice to them is to be patient, don't get discouraged and practice as much as possible! Read More

Instruments: Guitar

My methods vary depending on age and ability level, but my ultimate goal is for the student to have a pleasant and engaging experience with music. I want my students to enjoy the process of improving their ability, which I consider a huge role to the overall effectiveness of their time commitment to practice. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele

For beginners, I teach them basic exercises and the fundamentals needed to play their instrument. Once they have that down, we can talk about what repertoire to learn. Then, I will teach them the songs they want to learn, as well as any techniques they are curious about. For an intermediate and higher level students, the direction of the lessons is more in their hands. I teach them whatever they want to learn, while also making suggestions for things that they can improve on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar

Since 1996 I have been solely committed to a career in teaching and performing professionally. My Father was an amateur jazz pianist, my Grandmother, a professional opera singer prior to marriage. My earliest memories came with a soundtrack: my Dads piano playing. I studied privately both on piano (early) and guitar (later), starting somewhere in my fifth year. I always took advantage of musical opportunities afforded me at school whenever appropriate, whether that was a school musical, talent show, battle of the bands, jazz band or music elective. Read More