Lessons

I teach private guitar, theory, and music lessons in all styles of music with a foundational emphasis on classical and jazz styles in San Carlos.  I teach all ages (from kids to adults) and levels (from beginners to advanced).  I welcome beginning kids because I feel that a strong foundation is extremely important to develop when one starts taking lessons and exploring music.  A proper foundation lays the groundwork for a lifetime of musical enjoyment as a player and as a listener.

The first lesson/consultation is free for kids! I have found that this is a good way to get to know my teaching style and to get acquainted in a relaxed no pressure way.  I have consciously made my lessons affordable to parents so that they can afford guitar lessons for their kids.  Having two kids of my own makes me sensitive to making lessons a positive musical experience.

Adult lessons are based on a sliding scale and are also affordable.  I’m happy to speak with you on the phone or via email regarding lessons but I do not offer a free consultation for adult students.

I have been teaching private guitar lessons for over 30 years.  My teaching philosophy consists of providing a supportive atmosphere where students can excel at their own pace.  Special attention is given to proper right and left hand technique in order to get the best sound out of the instrument and for the hands to move in the most relaxed and efficient way possible.

I stress developing the innate musicality of the student so that the student learns how to express his or her self through the guitar.  I balance lessons with music that the student enjoys working on along with specific pieces and exercises that I chooses in order to develop musicality and technical ability.

I also teach the theoretical foundations for improvising on any instrument.  So if you or your child are interested in learning how to improvise (or jam) but are not sure where to begin, I can help.

I am a member of the San Mateo County branch of the Music Teachers Association of California, an organization dedicated to the advancement of private music education and teaching standards and was a member of the International Association of Jazz Educators, an organization that fell apart a few years ago.  I’m not sure what has taken its place.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

650-592-5210