Lessons on Guitar, Banjo, Bass, Mandolin, Ukulele, Songwriting

Kids Guitar Lessons 

Children are often able to assimilate information at an amazing speed. It is important to provide a combination of challenges and safety nets. Soon after basic skills are learned, it is important to teach some fundamentals of professional musicianship. 

Improvisation is learned to empower and allow the student to express themselves in a musical way. 

Songwriting is introduced so that we can have a discussion about what we enjoy about music 

Assignments are written in a variety of ways. A student is expected to learn to read standard notation, tablature (TAB), chord charts, and rhythms. Video and audio can be recorded in the lessons as well. 

Classical and world music(s) are introduced so that we can talk about the trends and influences of history and cultures. 

Basics of music theory (scale types, keys, transpositions, functional harmony, analysis, etc.) are learned so that the student can develop proficiency in all keys on the whole guitar 

Basic physics of sound (i.e. waves, beats,  vibrations, harmonics, pentatonic scales, power chords) are introduced to provide more perspective into tuning, instrument construction, and what to listen for. 

 Children should have an appropriate size guitar. A nylon string acoustic (classical guitar) is best to start on. Most professional guitar teachers will agree that it is best to introduce an electric guitar AFTER some proficiency has been developed on an acoustic guitar. Lessons are available in 1 hour blocks (no half hour sessions).

Adult Guitar Lessons 

Perhaps you are a beginner with no musical experience, or you haven’t played in years or even decades. There are several paths you can take to achieve your musical goals. 

Learning as an adult can be difficult, as it is often hard to find the regular practice time needed to improve. Finding others at the same level (of better) to jam and practice with will often help. In addition- 

CLEARLY identifying your musical goals is a must for any adult, but realize that there are many paths to take you there. 

Learning proper chord fingering and smooth changes will help you lead a song, not just follow the song. 

Examine the relationship between rhythm and pick direction so that you can identify and and comfortably play strong rhythm guitar parts 

Learning the basics of transposition and how to use a capo so that you can identify and play in any key will help you understand 99% of pop/rock/folk songs. 

Learning to sing a few songs (even if it is in your Johnny Cash voice) is one of the best ways to grow as a musician and be able to contribute to the jam session. 

Learn simply by following another guitarist in real time is an essential skill to survive a jam session. 

Getting comfortable with barre (bar) chords so that you are able to take on the songs you may have avoided in the past.