Guitar Lessons in The Castro, CA

Instruments: Piano Guitar

I have been teaching privately since undergraduate college days. In addition to private lessons on guitar and piano, I have facilitated group workshops, directed ensembles, and tutored reading comprehension in some Oakland public schools. It's a profound joy to see young children have their first musical experiences as well as to see the fire of music be rekindled in those who have put an instrument down and have decided to pick it up once again. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

With beginning children I usually start with Mel Bay Children's Guitar Books to get familiar with some basics and some easy kids songs. But experience has showed me one size does not fit all. I try to find a suitable book for each student to work from to use as a structured plan or path of development. I often utilize other elements in addition to the initial book, such as theory, chords, scales, and ear training. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

As said above, number one in my mind is meet the student where they are. I want to find a way to be not only a teacher for a student, but a way to be a mentor. Students spend years with teachers and they can very quickly become such an important component and role model. If there's a single thing I want my students to learn, is to love music. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Synthesizer Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I discuss with you what you want to achieve; playing your favorite songs, writing your own, improvising, playing with others, etc. and then we build a plan to develop the supporting skills to accomplish this goal. I focus on imparting clear instruction and advice, paying close attention to what is or isn't working for you to help you refine and improve your playing. Together we'll ensure you understand the fretboard up and down, filling in any gaps in knowledge and connecting all of the dots until you feel confident moving around it. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet Trombone Euphonium Tuba Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I first began taking private students in the 1990s, and continued to teach privately through my undergraduate years in the early 2000s. Though I stopped for some time to pursue artistic and professional ventures in music, I recently returned to the teaching realm, and am exciting to take on new students. In addition to private brass lessons, I have taught music in public schools through various non-profits and, above all, enjoy the light that comes on in a student's eyes when he/she "gets it." It is why I do what I do. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been playing guitar for over 10 years and would like to share my knowledge with the world. Currently I am attending Cal State East Bay as a jazz guitar major, and have an music associates degree at Diablo Valley College. Having been taught privately since I was a kid, I would like to improve upon different teaching methods that I wish were taught to me including music theory and improvisation skills. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it is important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More