Bachelor's of Science, Towson University, Liberal Arts and General Studies
Awards:
2009 - 2015 Music Writer and Contributor, AmericanSongwriting.com
2006 - 2010 Volunteer, Country Music Hall of Fame, Guitar Teacher
Overview:
Teaching is a way for me to help others. I come from a musical family and my musical experience began when my brothers and sisters and my Mom would play for local charity events. From there I began to write my own songs and began to help others learn how to play the guitar. It was a great experience that began a lifelong adventure. With a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts, I like my students to understand the history of music as well as the current state it is in. I use my own songs to help students learn, from beginners to advanced players. My songs are basic in structure and simple in the chords they use so they can help anyone get up and playing in no time. It is not as complex as it seems. The content I tend to use is more of the old-time songs. That is a great training ground that allows for the student to take his or musicianship in any direction, yet having an appreciation for the roots. I believe in the power of roots music for all ages.
EXPERIENCE
I have taught two generations of musicians already. I have coordinated educational outreaches to hundreds of students at local schools and blues festivals, giving everyone a chance to play an instrument and interact with music. It is pure enjoyment to bring people together and get them all thinking in one direction. People that have never played an instrument are able to enjoy the experience without added complication. I truly love and enjoy what I do. Teaching is what I feel I do best and it is what I am suppose to do.
METHODS USED
I have my own methods of quickly being able to get a student familiar with the instrument. I have a simple one-finger technique that helps to learn the 12 Bar Blues in no time. I realize not everyone is into Blues, but I use that method to give some instant reward. Then the student is aware of this most basic art form and gives an appreciation of the history of music. My lesson plans always match the needs of the individual. I have taught many skill levels and what I know is everyone learns a little differently. I find out what method works best for the individual and tailor fit my approach to each person. It is a method that works very well and is respectful, and keeps things fun. After working with a student, the usual result is a better focus and concentration level, and confidence levels increase drastically.
LESSON STYLE
The most important thing when I teach is to keep the student interested in the music they have chosen to study. To keep that interest going, it is important to let the student explore the kinds of music they enjoy. With kids, sometimes they enjoy what the other kids do, so I like to give them an alternative through listening to more traditional influences. But that doesn't mean we focus just on the traditional. The idea is for me to go by something I believe in firmly as a starting point to get the student involved, and then the student can take that motivation and continue in directions that can't even be anticipated. Once the student is comfortable with his or her skill, I also like to help them in the writing process so they can take their thoughts and combine it with the experience of playing. It is a very dynamic and fun process, and the rewards are continuous.
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