Guitar Lessons in Grain Valley, MO

Instruments: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer

I currently have my own home studio where I run Pro Tools. I perform in a rock band playing rhythm and lead guitar as well as some keyboard/ synthesizer work. We have played many benefit shows as well as paying gigs and we recently released an album that I engineered and produced. I love making music as well as learning and teaching. I love watching others as well as myself grow musically. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I have a working curriculum that I think accommodates many different aspects of music, with a focus on individual playing styles and capacities. I adhere to what the student would like to pursue as far as material and technical ability. Most often I find it best to listen to the student and probe for the skills, styles and qualities that he or she would like to employ and at least begin with methods in the desired genre. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Synthesizer Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a patient and mild-mannered teacher. I take great pride in fostering in students a lifelong enjoyment for music. Self-confidence and self-motivation are my priority for students and I strive to nurture that every single lesson. I continuously praise accomplishments and recognize when students overcome challenges. Students mirror their teachers and when I am patient and kind to students, they are patient and kind to themselves. Learning an instrument is hard work and takes patience and dedication; harshness and hostility only work against a students ability to push themselves and grow. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Organ Ukulele Recorder Keyboard Djembe

For beginner's, I do typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements books. For intermediate, I'll evaluate what materials they've used thus far in their lessons and go from there. If someone is familiar with a set of books in a positive way, there's no reason to change the books they're using. I do believe, however, there is profit in a variety of repertoire, so a diverse lesson is key. I have learned from experience that simply learning one genre (classical, jazz, showtunes) is less desirable than having a familiar ear to multiple styles. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Saxophone Flute Drums Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I don't believe in a one size fits all mentality for music education, I've often seen this approach derail students from enjoying the process and eventually terminating their relationship with music overall. Students are a case-by-case basis, and in that regard, each lesson is catered to the students actual goals and interests. I believe in training our ears and our sense of rhythm to a point where the student can figure things out and make artistic decisions on their own and use lessons, less as a tutorial, but as a source of inspiration to pursue the things that brought them here in the first place. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Double Bass Classical Guitar

I've been teaching on some sort of basis since my senior year of high school, when I spent a semester helping the middle school I had previously attended with an upright bass after school program. After high school, my focus was primarily on getting through college, so I taught lessons here and there but not anywhere near full time. When I earned my degree, however, I had some time to begin taking on students on a more regular basis. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Ukulele Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

If they want to specialize in a certain area I use additional backup materials. I also encouraged my students to be involved in performances and recitals that give them opportunity to utilize their skills. Particularly playing in church is a great outlet for many of my students. I have about 30 years of teaching experience, 20 of which have been full time. I have several endorsements and referrals available if needed. My students' range from hobbyist to career focused. Read More