Matthew R
Instruments: Guitar, Bass Guitar, Lap Steel Guitar, Music, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar
Styles: Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Country, R&B, Funk, Soul, Punk
Matthew R
Instruments: Guitar, Bass Guitar, Lap Steel Guitar, Music, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar
Styles:
Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Country, R&B, Funk, Soul, Punk
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 10-80
Course Work: Pellissippi State
Hello, I have been a musician for over twenty years. It is a constant source of joy to be able to share the beautiful and diverse world of music with others. I am from Knoxville, TN, and have been around East Tennessee my whole life. This is a region blessed with a rich history in music of all genres. My father is a musician, and we play shows together from time to time. I am mostly self-taught, but spent a semester in the music program at Pellissippi State College. This has not stopped me from absorbing as much knowledge as I can. I always relish the opportunity to share this knowledge with my students.
I began teaching private lessons in a music store around thirteen years ago. The store changed hands several times, but I remained among the staff of teachers through it all. Although the job brings a certain amount of uncertainty, it is extremely rewarding to be able to have a job I enjoy. Along with teaching I also play shows. Music has allowed me to travel around the country and meet an array of people. Playing gigs has helped me develop a pragmatic style of teaching, allowing the student to see the instrument's role in an ensemble.
Most beginner students will start with basic technique: How to hold a pick, where to place your fingers, etc. After that I like to move on to chords as quickly as possible. This may require some extended lessons on finger strength and technique. If I am teaching bass, the next step is feel and groove. I would obviously include some more general music terms and ideas throughout the lessons. More advanced students will get a custom tailored experience based on their interests. I like to provide them with a streamlined approach along with advancing their general music knowledge.
My teaching style is most likely comparatively relaxed. I feel this is necessary because having fun and finding joy are the most important aspects of music. I have a deep appreciation for the stories behind music. I enjoy sprinkling in history and culture studies in music lessons. It adds to the story of music. Music is all about expression, and it helps to have a deep understanding of why that expression took place. Music is a common thread amongst all cultures. Even is a student doesn't excel at the instrument, I am happy if they develop a greater understanding and appreciation for music.
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