Guitar Lessons in Westlake, WA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Drums Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have a very laidback, low-pressure approach - if you didn't practice, it's not the end of the world! I think back to my own days of taking lessons and remember how much more I improved in this type of environment, and how much more I loved the process. The difference between these approaches can be night and day, both in results and morale out of the student (which, again, I know from experience as a teacher, but also from my experience as a student). Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

There is not one method that fits all students and all styles. Young children and beginners on the guitar need to slowly develop strength and control of finger movements, while still being motivated when they learn how to play along with their favorite songs. Intermediate players often need help to get into a smooth flowing groove, to lock in with a rhythm or to phrase melodies. Advanced players might consider a few hints, tricks and exercises to improve their techniques or apply music theory to a deeper understanding of a music piece.-A major component of student success is continuity which I can provide as a teacher with lesson and practice plans. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Trumpet Trombone Bass Guitar Ukulele Recorder Orchestral Percussion Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I began teaching in high school, working with elementary and middle school students. Through this experience, I discovered my passion for helping others discover music. In my first full-time teaching position, I was able to to lead the Greenland (AR) High School band to the ASBOA Sweepstakes Award, the highest honor for a school band in that state. Additionally, many of my students were selected to honor bands and several received college scholarships. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Drums

No single approach works with every student when teaching drums. There are simply too many styles and methods to choose from. But when working with beginners, I tend to focus mostly on developing a good internal sense of rhythm and good listening skills. Then if the student wishes, we may specialize in classical, jazz, rock, latin, or whatever style the student is interested in. There are many excelent published methods to choose from and I occasionally assign etudes and excersizes of my own. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Flute Ukulele Piccolo Electric Guitar

For all of my students, I try to incorporate a sense of body awareness and finding ways of learning that are the most comfortable and fitting for their specific needs. I believe strongly in practicing efficiently and relaxed.  For beginning flute students, I am to work on developing a sound, using Trevor Wye's Omnibus Books 1-5 and my own long tones: later moving on to scales and basic short pieces and etudes. Read More

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

It’s very rewarding when a student develops an interest and love for music in their own way. Each student has specific needs to reach their musical goals, so he/she needs to go at his/her own pace. I like to set long-term goals for each student (whether it’s being able to play a certain song or a certain style) as well as set realistic short-term goals that he/she can complete in a week or so. Read More