Philosophy

Influential jazz pianist and composer Herbie Hancock is quoted as saying: “A great teacher is one who realizes that he himself is also a student and whose goal is not to dictate the answers, but to stimulate his students creativity enough so that they go out and find the answers themselves.” I apply this philosophy as I work with students in the hope of enriching their musical experiences. Lessons emphasize basic note reading, music theory and guitar technique while being directed toward the musical interests of the student. In this way, the student gains the tools necessary to reach his or her own goals and approach new musical challenges as well.

As both an instructor and a life-long student of music, I’ve come to realize a couple of basic principles, which are essential, if a student is to learn and grow: First, practice. The length of time it takes a student to accomplish his or her goals varies greatly depending upon the overall amount of focused practice time involved. The more time spent with the instrument outside of lessons, the more beneficial the guidance given in lessons will be. Students who maintain a regular practice regimen will make steady progress and gain technique, polish and confidence. Parents of younger students should schedule a short practice time each day and take the time to listen to their child’s work, encouraging their progress. Second, steady attendance. It is important to realize that progress can only be maintained when lessons occur on a regular basis. I ask your cooperation in not missing lessons, as cancellations benefit neither the student nor the teacher.

Where, When and How Much?

With the exception of lessons scheduled through the University of Rio Grande all guitar lessons are held at Studio E Music in The Plains where I meet with students once a week for a half-hour lesson. Lesson times are currently available on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons and evenings and Saturday morning and afternoons. The fee is $16.50 per lesson scheduled and paid for in monthly increments. Please read the Payment and Cancellation Policies below for specifics.

Need directions to Studio E Music? A Google Map is available here!

Payment and Cancellation Policies

Revised June 30 2007
The payment and cancellation policies are designed to make payment and record keeping as painless as possible, ensure attendance, and help keep my teaching schedule flexible and open to all of my students despite a tight schedule. All of us (including me) need to reschedule or cancel from time to time, and giving an early heads-up will help keep my teaching schedule flexible enough to accommodate requests for make-up and rescheduled lessons.

• Students are to pay for their lessons in advance on a monthly basis

• Payment is due on the last lesson of each calendar month to reserve a lesson time for the following month.

• Requests to reschedule should ideally be made one week in advance, but no less than 48 hours in advance.

• Students may contact me at my home phone number or email address. Calling or leaving messages at Studio E Music should be avoided.

• Lessons canceled with the appropriate notification may be rescheduled for the same week if the schedule permits.

• Fees for lessons missed or canceled with less than 48 hours notice will not be rescheduled or refunded.

• Failure to pay for the upcoming month’s lessons will result in the forfeiture of that lesson time.

• Sorry, no refunds on prepaid lessons.

Guitar Rental

If you don’t have access to a guitar and aren’t sure you’re ready to purchase one, both acoustic and electric guitars are available for rent from Studio E Music at extremely reasonable rates. Renting for a month or two while taking lessons is great way to decide if you’re ready to make a commitment to learning the instrument and will also help you make an informed decision when you are ready to buy. Additionally, I have a number of three-quarter size acoustic guitars available for rent that are suitable for young beginners.

Group Instruction

I am currently offering group guitar classes via Athens Community Music School (ACMS) at Ohio University. Please contact me for more information.

Gift Certificates

Gift certificates for guitar lessons are available. Any number of lessons may be purchased, and the recipient can schedule the lessons at their convenience. A unique gift for birthdays and holidays. Gift certificates are most often purchased for new students, but are also great way for relatives to contribute to an existing students’ continued musicial growth.