Guitar Lessons in Takoma Park, MD

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

My methods of teaching are primarily based on the individual. Within the first lesson, I make an assessment of the individuals musical abilities, and document the genres of music that interests the student. I then create a curriculum based on that assessment, which includes music theory, building repertoire (including music that interests the student), and music history/literature. I also encourage the student to engage in music competitions/auditions and student recitals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice

My goal is to develop a personal and holistic plan to teach each student. I do not believe in nor was a I a product of 'one size fits all' teaching. Music is a very personal and rewarding lifelong journey and I take special interest in developing each student's love for music and his or her instrument. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Saxophone Flute Clarinet Acoustic Guitar

I had an opportunity to start teaching early as a student leader in my high school music program and continuing into college. I've found that my students have a much higher level of success when they are encouraged to practice regularly at home. I use classical repertoire to build techniques across styles and modern music to keep students engaged. If they aren't enjoying themselves, I'm not doing something correctly. I encourage students to enter recitals and competitions as well as create their own original material. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I really enjoy and endorse Hal Leonard's guitar teaching books. They are widely available, affordable and easy to read and comprehend for beginners. I like to develop a personalized lesson plan for each student beginning with an evaluation during the first lesson. I like to ask a lot of questions pertaining to the students' musical background, learning preferences and musical tastes. I then focus on fundamentals, practice regimens and music theory. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Drums Organ Conga Music Keyboard Djembe Acoustic Guitar

My teaching experience dates back to High School as I began teaching part time. I continued teaching thru collage and the Airforce Band. After College I played full-time for many years. I began teaching full-time in 1995. I started my home studio in 2014. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. Read More

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

Children often encounter obstacles with regard to motor-skill development issues (i.e., usually their hands don't work well enough under the age of ten to develop many of the skills required to play the guitar) so a more general musical exploration is often called for. This can involve singing when the child is open to that. With teenagers and adults, I like to discover what their interests and goals are and tailor the lesson in accordance. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Banjo Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I always want my students to strive, as I do, toward an ideal, without an attachment to the result.  For example, if a student wants to play like Jimi Hendrix and become a Rock Star, we will talk about what it takes to reach that goal and work (and play) diligently and enthusiastically toward it, and when difficulties inevitably arise, that's OK.  Keep up the practice and you will most likely reach your goal. Read More