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BA, Florida State University, Music
2016 - Performed with George Clinton at Florida States Opperman Hall
I'm guitarist who loves teaching and sharing my affinity for music. I graduated from Florida State University in 2016 with a BA in Music, emphasizing classical guitar. Originally starting as a rock player, my palette was expanded through learning classical guitar. Not only did I learn a new style, I learned new principles that made me an overall better player through the program. From there I performed with guitar and folk ensembles in a variety of locations in Tallahassee, FL. Most of the time when I'm not teaching or playing you can find me building or modding guitar pedals and other gear.
I got my start when I was six and picked up the guitar. From there I played in various local bands and wound up at the renowned Florida State University where I studied classical guitar. While there I expanded my knowledge of theory, practice approach, and audio production. In 2016 I had the opportunity to perform with George Clinton in an Old Time Ensemble through Florida State. After graduation I moved to Los Angeles where I cut my teeth in the audio engineering world and learned from the best about production and performance.
My philosophy lies in structure - such as teaching in appropriate amounts that are challenging, but not overwhelming. I will always ask students what they're interested in learning and work that into the lesson. But the main focus for beginners is to be comfortable with the fretboard and to have fun. I break lessons down into technique, theory, and whatever the student is particularly wanting to learn. I particularly like to pull from the Berklee Press or Musician's Institute books, as they are well received. However, I'm more than happy to use other method books if a student has a preference.
I believe goals are very important in order to progress. However, each student progresses at their own pace. I like setting small goals weekly, and often times incorporate techniques into songs. Seeing students achieve their goals is one of the most rewarding aspects of the job. I'll ask students to bring pencil and paper to each lesson and will designate technical goals, fretboard knowledge, and whatever the student's goal is (learning a song, another scale, solo part, etc). I feel this keeps students on track, but shows them how to practice and succeed at their instrument.