My musical journey began in 1982 at the age of 13. Growing up I couldn't help but listen to the sweet sounds of Rush, Pink Floyd, Kansas, Styx, The Eagles, and many other awesome bands dancing off the vinyl from my brothers record player. I had already started to play around with an old guitar my parents bought me, with no clear direction. I soon became obsessed with all aspects of music theory, composition, and technique related to acoustic and electric guitar, and I have been playing ever since.
My musical interests today are quite broad. From classic rock, modern rock, progressive rock, and industrial metal to classical, jazz, blues, and country. As a fan of music, I enjoy learning from all of these styles. Playing and teaching guitar is an obsessive hobby and passion of mine. I want to share what I have learned with others, so that they too can enjoy learning and playing guitar.
"As long as you’re excited about what you’re playing, and as long as it comes from your heart, it’s going to be great."
-John Frusciante
It's About the Student
I’ll teach you what you want to learn. Before our first lesson, we’ll talk about you! What do you want to get out of our journey together? What kind of music do you like? What songs do you want to learn? Based on your goals I will create a custom learning path that will be grounded in the fundamentals of guitar playing while working towards your personal goals.
Make it Fun and Rewarding
If it's fun you're going to want to do it, it's as simple as that. All students can learn when they are accepted for who and where they are in their educational journey. Positive and constructive feedback builds confidence and pride. Effective learning requires collaboration between teacher, student, and parents grounded in mutual
respect and trust.
Who
I work with humans ages 8 and up. I will make some exceptions for a younger child who shows genuine interest in learning to play.
What
My teaching styles is best suited for beginning and intermediate guitarists who want to play classic and/or modern rock on both the acoustic and electric guitar. Advanced instruction is available as well. But as explained in my teaching philosophy, your learning path will be customized for your personal goals.
Where
Instruction is given at my home residence in Chesapeake, VA. It is a positive and safe family environment and parents are welcome to stay if they would like.
Complete Customization
My learning path is designed around the Alfred's Basic Guitar Method to teach you the building blocks you need to become a great guitar player.
In addition to following this tried and true learning system, we will also discuss your personal goals and together create a custom supplemental learning path that will completely compliment your goals and what you are trying to achieve.
Believe in Yourself!
There is really no way around it. This is going to be difficult. Wait, what? I thought you said this was going to be fun? It will be! But it will also require a lot of hard work from both of us.
Anything worth doing is worth doing in a way that requires your very best effort. If you commit to working hard and practicing then I will be right there with you the whole way.