Learn to play the Guitar and to Make Music First!!

From 51 C$ /h

My approach is guided by a simple principle: make music first. From the beginning, students are encouraged to play real music—songs, grooves, and progressions—while we build the technical and theoretical foundation underneath.
Lessons combine:
Practical technique and posture
Chords, strumming, and rhythm
Fingerstyle and lead fundamentals
Ear training and musical awareness
Basic music theory as it applies to the guitar
Playing and singing simultaneously (for singer-songwriters)

Extra information

My training includes classical, jazz, rock, and contemporary styles, along with extensive real-world performance and studio experience.
I identify first and foremost as an educator. While I have performed professionally in the U.S. and internationally, my primary focus is helping students develop real musical skills, confidence, and independence on the instrument. I work primarily with beginner to intermediate players, serious hobbyists, and singers and songwriters who want to accompany themselves effectively.
All lessons are taught virtually, and I am comfortable guiding students through clear goals, structured practice, and steady progress in an online setting.

Location

Online from United States

About Me

I am a professional guitar instructor with nearly four decades of playing experience and over 30 years of teaching private lessons. I began playing guitar in 1987 and have taught continuously since 1993, working with students of all ages and backgrounds. My training includes classical, jazz, rock, and contemporary styles, along with extensive real-world performance and studio experience.
I identify first and foremost as an educator. While I have performed professionally in the U.S. and internationally, my primary focus is helping students develop real musical skills, confidence, and independence on the instrument. I work primarily with beginner to intermediate players, serious hobbyists, and singers and songwriters who want to accompany themselves effectively.
All lessons are taught virtually, and I am comfortable guiding students through clear goals, structured practice, and steady progress in an online setting.
Teaching Style
My teaching style is structured, honest, and supportive. I believe students learn best when expectations are clear and fundamentals are taken seriously, while still keeping music engaging and meaningful.
I am comfortable giving direct feedback and addressing weaknesses without judgment or pressure. Frustration is a normal part of learning, and I help students work through it patiently rather than avoiding it or covering it up with novelty. I aim to create a focused but encouraging environment where students feel challenged, supported, and respected.
I tailor lessons to each student’s goals and interests while maintaining strong standards around rhythm, technique, tone, and musical understanding.
Teaching Method & Materials
My approach is guided by a simple principle: make music first. From the beginning, students are encouraged to play real music—songs, grooves, and progressions—while we build the technical and theoretical foundation underneath.
Lessons combine:
Practical technique and posture
Chords, strumming, and rhythm
Fingerstyle and lead fundamentals
Ear training and musical awareness
Basic music theory as it applies to the guitar
Playing and singing simultaneously (for singer-songwriters)
I do not rely on a single method book or fixed curriculum. All materials are provided digitally during lessons, and I recommend specific resources as needed based on the student’s level, goals, and learning style. This allows lessons to stay flexible, relevant, and efficient.

Education

Credentials & Affiliations
Bachelor of Arts in Music (Guitar Performance), Tulane University, 1997
Musicians Institute, 1999
Over 30 years of professional teaching experience

Experience / Qualifications

Member, American Federation of Musicians (AFM)
Member, SAG-AFTRA
Extensive performance experience including touring, studio work, and television appearances

Age

Children (7-12 years old)

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

30 minutes

45 minutes