Mark D
Instruments: Guitar, Bass Guitar
Styles: Pop, Rock, Folk, Country, Spirituals, Punk
Mark D
Instruments: Guitar, Bass Guitar
Styles:
Pop, Rock, Folk, Country, Spirituals, Punk
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 10-80
Bachelor Degree: Spring Arbor University
2004 Spring Arbor University Worship Arts Student of the Year
I've been a Worship Pastor for more than 15 years who loves music and and people. Teaching guitar and bass gives me the opportunity to bring these together. I graduated from Spring Arbor University in 2007 with a degree in Worship Arts Leadership. I have worked at 2 different churches as a worship leader in my 15 year career. Along with that I played bass in a Christian rock band for 6 years sharing the stage with national Christian music artists such as: David Crowder, Sanctus Real, Jars of Clay, and Matthew West.
I have taught guitar and voice lessons periodically for the past 15 years. I've never had more than 3 students at a time and it was more of a side gig for friends, family, and attenders of the churches I worked at. Many of my students learn how to play quickly and proficiently. I have even had a few students go on to play music professionally. I'm excited to focus more of my time on helping others develop their passions for music. I love to see my students reach their goals and get excited as they notice their skills improving.
I try to go slow at first, focusing mostly on the instrument and how it works as well as how to take care of it. For instance, with guitar I teach them string names, how to change strings, what the different parts are (i.e. bridge, neck, tuners.) I'll teach a few chords along with this and when they are getting a handle on those I will move into learning scales and songs. I use my own system that focuses on building strength of mind and body. It can be exhausting mentally to learn a new instrument so I like to pace that mental challenges to keep it fun and engaging.
My teaching style is fun and laid back. I like to push my students at a pace that they will enjoy and keep them interested. I keep things simple and easy to understand. I like to let them pick music styles and songs that they are eager to learn. We will set realistic goals together and celebrate the wins. I have found with guitar the is not a consistent progression but more of a peak, plateau, hard work, peak cycle. Celebrating the peaks and understanding that more will come during times of frustration have proven to encourage students to stick with it.
Check out our A+
Rating from the Better Business Bureau
100% Risk-Free Trial Lesson
If you are not satisfied after your trial lesson, you will not be charged and we can match you with another teacher.