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BM, Elmhurst College, Jazz Studies - Guitar Performance BM, Elmhurst College, Music Business - Classical Guitar Performance Certified in Guitar and Bass Setup and Maintenance - Specimen Guitar Shop
2012 - Performed with the Jeff Hamilton Trio
2014 - Studied with Fingerstyle Guitar Master Steve Herberman
2013 - Toured Europe with Large Jazz Ensemble
2014 - Performed at the House of Blues Chicago
2012 - Lead Guitarist in all of Elmhurst College Music Program
I grew up in the chicagoland area where my music career started young. I tried many instruments but eventually landed on guitar early in high school which has been my passion ever since. After High School I continued guitar and studied at Elmhurst College near Chicago, while there I performed with many ensembles in a large variety of genres and styles. I have toured internationally and around the country. The last few years I have been performing with Brass From the Past, a 13 piece ensemble performing rock, soul and motown classics from all eras. I have performed countless weddings, corporate events, fundraisers, and concerts with a variety of jazz, rock and classical settings.
I began teaching guitar very soon after I started performing myself. I had already had an extensive background on other instruments so the private lesson setting was second nature to me. In high school I taught many beginners and learned how to show younger students to build coordination between their fingers and the guitar while at the same time acquiring a large repertoire of songs that many students like to learn. In college my skill increased tremendously and at the same time I was constantly being recommended for teaching positions of other undergraduate students by the music professors. During this entire time, and since I have continued teaching private lessons either on my own, or through schools such as Stone Grove Guitars or American Music Institute in the chicagoland. I also spent years teaching large ensembles so I understand how much a student can improve when they are performing, which is why I always encourage students to join bands, talent shows or recitals.
Every student is different. I understand this and use it to my advantage. Early on I will use my own methods of building coordination between the fingers and the instrument. We will quickly learn simple chords and will be able to start playing along with songs in the first few lessons! I will even find ways to get students to play along with songs of their choosing! I have also taught many adult students and advanced students. Again, my experience, knowledge, command of theory and styles has allowed me to accomodate any and all needs.
A parent of a former studnet of mine had this to say about me - "Owen has been our 11 year old daughter’s guitar teacher for almost two years. During that period she has excelled, not only in ability but also in self-confidence and her enthusiasm for playing. Owen is a gifted teacher but he is also warm, patient and fun." - Samantha J. I love teaching and there is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing a students passion for the instrument and music grow.