QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
WHY TAKE LESSONS WITH YOU--RATHER THAN AT A MUSIC STORE?
It's a good question. There are some excellent music stores in the area; you may want to check them out, as they have much to offer.
It may be helpful to keep in mind that every guitar teacher has their own unique set of skills and interests: some are specialized in their instructional approach and focus--while others may be more broad-based. For example, one instructor may focus on teaching classical guitar style (played on an acoustic instrument with the fingers)--while another focuses on rock (played on an electric guitar, usually with a pick). There are lots of different styles of guitar playing, each requiring a different set of skills and knowledge.
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As for myself, my approach is broad-based. I teach a variety of playing styles and techniques, depending on the student's interests (see more on this below).
WHERE DO YOU TEACH?
I currently teach at my home studio in Hillsborough. During the past 3 years, I have also taught private and group lessons at a school, as well as two area churches. For those who prefer taking lessons from the comfort of their own home, I offer virtual lessons using a Zoom format. Ifcomf
What kind of music do you want to learn? Folk? Bluegrass? Classical? Americana? Tell me about your favorite artists or musical genres and I'll design an instructional program based upon your unique musical interests.
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I specialize in teaching beginning and intermediate guitar lessons, and also offer banjo and bass guitar lessons for beginners. For most students, I use the tablature approach to instruction--rather than standard music notation--since it offers a much quicker on-ramp to playing the songs you love, and since there is now a vast library of materials available in this format. You might be surprised to know that the overwhelming majority of amateur and professional musicians do not read standard music notation.
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That being said, I do teach music reading for those who'd like to study classical guitar (or interested others), and I teach principles of music theory to all of my students--classical or otherwise.
For the highly motivated student--I am able to move beyond fundamentals and towards a more comprehensive understanding of music, and their instrument, to the end that they will become independent learners--capable of advancing their musical skills and knowledge on their own (with or without the assistance of an instructor). Acquiring a working knowledge of music theory is especially helpful for those who are interested in performing with others, or writing music for voice and guitar.
WHY DO YOU CALL YOUR TEACHING ENTERPRISE COMMON GROUND?
I chose the familiar expression "Common Ground" because it speaks to something I greatly value: the idea of finding and embracing those values that we agree upon--in spite of deeply-held cultural or philosophical differences where we may differ. I personally believe that music can play a role in advancing this idea, and in healing the divisions among us, even when our words or political affiliation threaten to separate us. As Hans Christian Andersen once put it: "Where words fail, music speaks."
WHAT MAKES COMMON GROUND DIFFERENT?
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10-25% lower lesson rates, taught by an experienced, qualified instructor. Teaching in my home allows me to keep overhead down and offer you lower rates. Check out our rates by selecting "Lessons" in the menu bar.
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Do you or your child have a disability or learning difference? Every student at Common Ground will find a supportive, nurturing learning environment. Ask how I've helped such students succeed in the past. I'll design a course of study just for you or your child.
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No requirement to sign up for monthly automatic bank drafts Cash, check, PayPal, Venmo accepted.
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Free loaner guitar for the first lesson Note: talk to me about this if your child is younger than 9.