Guitar Lessons in Portland, TN

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums

I've been teaching guitar for the past four years and drums for 10. My favorite thing about teaching is when a student gets to a playing level they didn't think possible. Seeing the transformation is the most rewarding part of the job for me, because I know first hand how good it feels to improve and progress. To see that same sense of acomplishment in others makes me happy because I know the lessons and skills learned are life long and invaluable. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I'm a performer/composer who comes from a line of professional arts educators. Both my parents and one of my grandmothers are lifelong teachers in musical theater and modern dance respectively. I've learned a huge amount from them not only about my art form but about the skills required to be a good teacher, regardless of topic. Teaching is truly its own set of skills separate from the topic that someone is teaching, and treating this job as such is the difference between someone simply demonstrating skills and actually being a thoughtful teacher. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

For all my students, I first ask the question: why are you taking vocal lessons? I want to know first and foremost my students' goals and what they like/don't like about their singing voice. Then I start with the basics: what is happening in your body when you sing, and why? First I like to start with singing easy 5-tone scales to discover the students' voice type, then I talk to my students about what makes their voice special. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I tailor my curriculum to each student based on their learning style, skill level, interests, and goals. If the student is a beginner, we will start with fundamentals. I then create more rewarding lessons as soon as possible, working in the fundamentals in a more enjoyable and musical way. If the student is more advanced, we will work on pursuing their goals and filling in any gaps in their understanding. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Cello Bass Guitar

I have played over 1,000 shows, both solo and as an auxiliary musician for other touring acts. I performed on over 30 albums and have composed for radio, television, and internet video series, including sharing the stage with members of the 10,000 Maniacs. I've been featured in The New York Times, on the CBS Evening News, and on NPR. Read More

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

I have used many different methods over the years and will supplement any method book to meet the individual needs of the student. My preferred method for young students is the FJH Harris Young Beginner's Guitar Method series. For older students I tend to use either Mel Bay or Hal Leonard methods to teach the fundamentals and then add onto them with whatever suits the student best. For advanced students I prefer the William Leavitt methods from Berklee University Press, which will be a challenge for anyone! Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I have eleven years of experience teaching music in the public school system. I have over 25 years of experience teaching private music lessons to students ranging in age from 5-72. I love teaching children and adults and get great satisfaction in seeing their growth not only on their instrument but branching out into other musical adventures as well. I teach in my home studio, student's homes or recently have started online lesson. Read More