Bass Lessons in Gresham, OR

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

With new students, my first goal is to surmise what they have learned thus far. I then "fill in the gaps" to get them up to speed, which depending on their skill level, can take one lesson or many lessons. For younger students who need more inspiration to be able to do that sort of catch-up work, I attempt to balance the fun with the learning. Learning instrument technique can be tedious, so I do my best to help my students be aware of their weaknesses and play to their strengths, to work smarter, not always harder. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For younger students and those just starting out, I will usually start with a basic introduction to their instrument, get them acquainted with it and how to properly play the instrument before moving on to basic scales and beginner songs. As for more experienced and older students, I try to figure out what their goals are as a musician and guide the instruction based on those goals and ensuring that things remain engaging as well as educational. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer

I feel that if a student is just banging away at notes without getting the big picture of how everything works it can be frustrating and fruitless. I like to teach as we play a song. I think you are able to benefit by using the theory and techniques as the song progresses. I can teach out of a book if the student/parent would prefer. I do customize songs to the age and interests of the student. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I like the aphorism by British guitarist and educator Robert Fripp "We begin where we are". It means to me that at any given point we are all beginners. So if we come with an open mind to explore and learn something new, perhaps what it could be challenging might become easier if we apply the right mind set. So if we are learning a scale...perhaps we begin with a note at the time, then add a second and third, so on, until we have all eight notes or sixteen. - Slow down: If you want to play fast you gotta be able to play it slowly with accuracy and precision. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele

Guitar-From playing melodies, fingerpicking, strumming chords, reading music, and tuning your instrument- your instructor will guide you step by step. Students use the Hal Leonard method book to start, which is a great book for introducing basic guitar techniques and methods. As the student advances more materials and techniques will be supplied to the student, or continue using the method books. Styles taught are rock, blues, metal, folk, classical, jazz, country and everything in-between. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele

I have been playing music in many kinds of bands and ensembles since the early 1980's. In the late 80's and early 90's I was the drummer for the Seattle grunge band, "Violet Grey." After moving to Portland to go to college I played in the Concordia University String Ensemble and a number of rock bands, including, "Apostolic Tackle-Box," "Andy's Dandies," and "the Quick." I played in the folk duo, "Agile Grapefruit," and I have led praise bands at a number of local churches. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Ukulele

I'm a fun and energetic guitarist who specializes in gypsy jazz and music composition. I play in several swing bands around Portland and have been for over 10 years. I have a Bachelor of Music in music composition from PSU university. When I teach music I focus on first helping students meet their goals, whether it's play a rock song or improvise or read music, I feel every student learns at their own pace and I simply act as a facilitator to guide the student on their own musical path. Read More