My name is Anthony Richardson, also known as TJ. I am the former lead guitarist of the Detroit-based heavy metal band Halloween. I also have my own progressive metal project, called Salvation’s End. I spent many years touring the US and Europe with Halloween, which was an incredible experience. I graduated from Full Sail University with an Associate’s Degree in music production. I specialize in composing original music in the heavy metal/hard rock genres, with a focus on technical and progressive elements. I am also interested in audio production and engineering. I am a self-taught guitarist; I began playing when I was 16 years old after seeing the band Nevermore live for the first time. I primarily play 7-string guitars, but am also proficient in 6-string and 8-string guitars.
EXPERIENCE
I began teaching guitar lessons in my home studio while I was still in college. I encourage frequent practice on a consistent schedule. When I began playing as a teenager, I practiced for up to 11 hours each day. There is no way that I could expect any of my students to possibly do that, but I do stress the importance of practicing often while keeping things fun. I also encourage my students to keep an open mind and listen to all genres of music, as there is something that can be learned from each genre, from metal to jazz to classical. Nothing is more rewarding to me than watching my students progress, and in doing so, gaining a passion for the instrument.
METHODS USED
I like to start by getting to know my students - what their musical goals are, what level they are at, and who inspires them to play. From here, I am able to customize lesson plans to meet each student where they are at. I always begin with theory; it is of the utmost importance, and the foundation of everything in music. My favorite series of instructional books is the Guitar Grimoire series by Adam Kadmon. For students who are at an intermediate to advanced level, I can create custom backing tracks for them to practice chord voicing and lead work over. For those who are interested, I can also teach lessons on writing original music, and production methods such as mixing and mastering.
LESSON STYLE
It is important to me that each student feels comfortable during their lessons. I am very patient and understanding; I fully believe that a low-pressure environment helps students to thrive. Setting realistic goals is something else that I feel is important. No one is going to leave their very first guitar lesson playing like Yngwie Malmsteen, except for maybe Yngwie himself, so there is no possible way that I could expect that from any of my students. If you want to play like Yngwie, I’ll help get you there. I create Guitar Pro files for each lesson that each student can use at home - these files contain the sheet music from the lessons, tablature, and MIDI files, so that the student can review the material at their own pace and practice along with it.
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