Guitar Lessons in Utica, MI

Instruments: Guitar Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I like to start by getting to know my students - what their musical goals are, what level they are at, and who inspires them to play. From here, I am able to customize lesson plans to meet each student where they are at. I always begin with theory; it is of the utmost importance, and the foundation of everything in music. My favorite series of instructional books is the Guitar Grimoire series by Adam Kadmon. Read More

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 Drums

I first started really getting into music when I was 13 and started playing drums and guitar, picking up piano a couple years later. In 2005 I graduated from the Journeyman Program in Musical Performance at Musicians Institute in Hollywood California. Since then I've been trying my hand at different musical endeavors such as playing in bands, writing my own music, composing for indie games as well as doing covers of my favorite old video game songs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Trumpet Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

For young students just beginning, I use a system of "music play" which includes games and engaging activities for the child to become interested in music. I borrow heavily from both Music Learning Theory and the Orff Method, as well as include games and ideas that I have found to be creative and educational. After this stage of learning, I start students on basic notation and sight reading, and learning what the notes on the page mean. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Trumpet Drums Electric Guitar

I have many years of teaching experience, from high school marching percussion lines to private percussion and guitar lessons to teaching in a public school setting. I have been a band director for concert and marching band, as well as jazz band, guitar classes, music theory and general music. I am now teaching K-8 general music classes. 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: Piano Guitar Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer

I have a degree from Wayne State University where I studied Jazz Guitar and Music technology.  I've played in bands ranging from Big Band Swing to Country to Punk Rock playing guitar, bass and piano/keyboards.  My studio is equipped with two amplifiers and the ability to record the student for playback. This provides a chance to hear oneself. In addition to this I have a library of sheet music including instructional books. Read More