Guitar Lessons in Trenton, MI

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar

I stress the importance of reading music from the get go. I do understand however that some (adults) only want to learn to play some songs for their own personal gain, and not have to mess around with note reading. (Guitar is an instrument that can be played by ear, and to some degrees at a high level.) To that I do not require any books. I'll always reiterate the importance of reading..."Just think how good Eddie Van Halen would have been had he been able to read music!" For Children: Mel Bay Children Guitar Method 1 (Blue Turquoise cover) For beginners steel string and jazz: Hal Leonard Guitar method book 1 (Black and Orange cover) For Classical: Foundations in Classical guitar by Brian and Mary Lou Roberts I ALWAYS strive for the student to become familiar with performing and playing with others. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I love seeing my students gain passion and find success when they learn a riff or a chord, because I know how I felt when I did it. It inspires you to learn more. I like to use the method of telling them something they did fantastic, something they could work on and end on something they really did awesome on. I want to know what inspires the student and what they want to play. Read More

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

Outside of teaching, I perform with the bluegrass band Mad Dogg and the Strays and the accordion & guitar duo Everything but the Polka. I’ve also written music for short films, theater productions, and comedy projects. As a teacher, my goal is to meet you where you are and build lessons that match your learning style and interests. I love helping students discover their unique musical voice—whether that’s through learning their favorite songs, improving technique, or writing original music. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Bass Guitar Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is to help one discover a love for music. When I was learning, the best way I got excited was by learning through what I liked. That helped me get excited for playing music, and more interested in learning the complexities in music. By acknowledging what the student likes and their strengths, I can help focus them on how to reach the dreams they desire. I give my students a positive attitude with no judgement of their skill level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are completely new to the world of music, I typically start them with exercises and theory found in Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. This introduces them to the foundations of the guitar, such as basic chords, chord progressions, and the musical alphabet. Once they have the necessary understanding of the fundamentals, I then like to find out what music the student is interested in learning and apply these foundations in musical pieces they are familiar with. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola Ukulele Electric Violin Fiddle

I model my teaching from Ms Dorthy DeLay. The key to teaching is firm foundation but also a personable attitude and strong patience. If a student is having a hard time learning then I take the proper steps to make it clear and easy for them without the stress and anger of failure. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet Drums Electric Guitar

I understand that sometimes life gets in the way of our musical pursuits and I am laid back and casual in my teaching approach. I believe that all students can learn, although not every student learns at the same pace. I believe that all students need time and space to grow. Read More