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Background:
For more than twenty-five years, I have sung and played guitar. I have studied folk, classical, jazz, blues and Celtic guitar styles with professional guitarists from around the United States and abroad. Performances have ranged from churches to bars, and from live radio to concert and festival stages. Currently, I perform and record with the acoustic music duo Moonset. Using fingerstyle and flatpick techniques I play rhythm accompaniment, lead guitar and chord/melody style. During the last ten years, I have taught hundreds of guitar players, ranging from absolute beginners to skilled performers who are looking for new ideas. I teach privately year round and from time to time I offer classes and workshops for small groups.
Philosophy and Teaching Style:
People take guitar lessons for many different reasons. Some want to become expert players, while others pursue a relaxing hobby or personal growth. I offer patient instruction, encouragement and lots of support for students on any path.
Using familiar songs, students build a "vocabulary" of guitar techniques that they can apply to any musical style. In this way, my students learn to make any song or style their own.
Students also learn to read music notation and guitar tablature as we cover the nuts and bolts of music theory in a clear, systematic way. Because the ability to play what we hear is essential for all musicians, ear training is a part of each lesson.
When teaching children, my intention is to create a safe, fun setting where a child can explore his or her musical nature. We play games with rhythm and pitch, using the guitar or ukulele, our voices, hand clapping and percussion. Drawing from a variety of instructional techniques, I individualize our lessons in order to match my teaching style to the child’s learning style. The skills and confidence gained in this way will serve the young student in guitar playing or any musical endeavor.
Availability:
Available Monday through Friday, both day and evening, in Ballard.
Cost:
$50.00 per fifty-five minute lesson for adults.
$25.00 per thirty minute lesson for children.
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