Teaching Approach

Playing the Guitar Should Be Fun

My favorite musicians are usually the ones that look like they’re having a blast. Let’s face it, if you’re not having fun, then why do it at all?

Learning a musical instrument can feel awkward and intimidating for a beginner, especially for one who hasn’t had prior musical training. So it helps to have a teacher who is patient and wants you to feel confident and relaxed while you’re learning.

How I Make it Fun

I make learning the guitar fun by teaching you the songs you love. My goal is to get you playing whole songs as soon as possible.

Before our first lesson, we’ll talk about the music you like. Then I’ll design lessons that will teach you the fundamentals of guitar playing by teaching you your favorite songs and maybe even introduce you to some new favorites along the way.

I make learning enjoyable and engaging by breaking down the fundamentals into small achievable goals that are challenging, but not overly frustrating. And I’m always adjusting my approach based on your progress.

By recording each lesson, I’m accomplishing two things. First, it’s a reminder of what the student needs to focus on. But more importantly, it also acts like an audio journal… a chronicle of all of the progress that’s been made over time.

Also, as a trained repair technician from the Galloup School of Lutherie, I can evaluate students’ guitars and suggest maintenance or repairs. Often students will become discouraged not because they don’t “get it,” but because the instrument itself is difficult to play. Often a good guitar setup can make a big difference in performance and enjoyment.

Get Motivated

I consider myself more than a guitar teacher… I like to call myself a music motivator, because I bring my love of music and learning to each lesson.

Being a musician means always being a student of music. And when you learn to love learning that much, well… the habit spills into other areas of your life. And that’s a good thing.

If you feel like my kind of music instruction suits you or your children, then send me an email to discuss scheduling. And even if you choose another instructor, just get out there and play your heart out. Life’s too short not to just go for it!