Guitar Lessons Pottawattamie County, IA

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Trumpet, Trombone, Clarinet, Drums, Synthesizer, Euphonium, Tuba, Mallet Percussion, Orchestral Percussion, Conga, Latin Percussion

With beginning piano students, I use the Faber series of lesson, perfomance, theory and technique books. It's a great set that progresses fluidly and keeps students well rounded in their skills. In addition, I encourage students to use flash cards to practice with note names and musical symbols and terms. For percussion students, I would teach basic snare drum and 2-mallet techniques. This may come from basic rudiment lists, school curriculum, or any additional books appropriate for the student's level. Read More

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

We use a mixture of rock, blues, and classical music to give you the best musical education possible. With vocal students, it's all about vocal health, proper breathing, and getting you to find your own voice. Instead of trying to make each singer sound the same, I try to help each singer develop their own style, while still using techniques that will keep their voices healthy and strong, even after a lot of singing. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Trumpet, Bass Guitar, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

My teaching experience began about 5 years ago, teaching guitar, piano, electric bass and recording techniques to children ages 6-18 at an overnight summer camp. Having my students form bands, small combos and even 12-15 people groups was always a good way to reinforce the importance of communication and teamwork. These groups helped my students hold themselves accountable, as well as made from an incredibly fun learning environment. Since then, I have taught students with a variety of abilities, and of a variety of ages. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

For beginning students I use very little of a method book.  I find it that is important that one learns to make a good sound and has fun with the instrument in the early phases.  During this time I cover chords, basic finger and pick technique, proper posture, lead sheets, and blues improvisation.  I then transition into Charles Duncan's "A Modern Approach to Classical Guitar."  This book provided a solid foundation of the ability to read written sheet music.  After this book, I transition the student to written sheet music repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Saxophone, Bass Guitar, Ukulele

I like to keep a fun and positive environment during my lessons. The student is encouraged to share his or her musical interests, as we will focus on the style and genre the student is interested in. Practicing is definitely important to success as a musician, but we will work together to find an appropriate level of commitment. This is a stress free zone. Anything else will hinder creativity and motivation, two key ingredients to musical success! Read More