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2009-2011 Chamber Music 20/20 Scholarship Program
Hi! I've been a guitar player for 18+ years, and have studied music at a conservatory level. I graduated from the Hartt School of Music in 2010 with a Bachelor of Music degree in guitar performance, and have a strong background in theory and ear training as well as performance. I have been lucky enough to study with and participate in master classes with many world renowned guitar players, including Scott Tennant, Maneul Barrucco, Jason Vieaux, and Ana Vidovic. I love playing both electric and classical guitar, and am constantly working to expand my own musicianship.
I began teaching in college, and participated in several years worth of teaching courses specifically designed around guitar instruction. After taking several years away from music, I have gotten back into teaching as both a way to share my love of music, and as a valuable tool to provide not only inspiration to my students but to myself as well. I love teaching students at all levels, and find teaching beginner technique and musicianship just as enjoyable as teaching at more advanced levels. I want my students to love and enjoy music, no matter what level they are at.
Instead of working from a specific book, I try to tailor my lessons for each student. I find that everyone learns in their own way, and at their own pace, and I do my best to make sure that learning an instrument is an enjoyable experience, not a frustrating one. I always try to incorporate my students own musical interests to the highest level that I can, and focus both on short term and long term musical goals as well as strong practice habits. This includes working on developing an individual practice routine to help each student use their time as effectively as they can.
I believe that playing music is one of the best things a person can decide to do, and i want to both encourage that instinct as well as make the process both fun and enjoyable. Nothing makes me happier than finding the right piece of the puzzle to help someone advance their own playing. Whether someone is a beginner, or finding themselves stuck at a certain level, I have been there myself and want to help everyone achieve their own musical goals. I believe that a positive approach and good habits are the best way attain this.
James is an excellent guitar teacher with a keen eye for what I need to work on to take my intermediate play to the next level. He provides highly personalized / customized instruction, with a partnership mindset to identify practice areas in which I’m most interested. His comfortable interpersonal style always keeps things fun and engaging.