Alastar M. TakeLessons Instructor guitar, acoustic guitar, music, electric guitar, bass guitar, Ukulele Honolulu Hawaii, Honolulu, HI

I have been teaching guitar and ukulele for over ten years to both adults and children. I also play music professionally and have a lot of experience playing a wide variety of music including classic rock, jazz, reggae,funk, African and Hawaiian. Emphasis on both theory and feel are at the heart of my teaching style. I feel that anyone can learn to play music and I have confirmed this philosophy time after time.

I play with three bands regularly; Mabanzi, Kupa'aina, and Steppingstone. Mabanzi is a large Marimba group that plays African music. Kupa'aina is mainly reggae with a very broad range of influences and an island flavor. Steppingstone is a relatively new band that plays original reggae music. I have played with many bands over the years and learned a lot from the many musicians that I have worked with. I try to impart any knowledge I have gained from playing in group situations, because that is why we usually learn music; to be able to play with other musicians!

I try to connect with the student on a personal level and find out what kind of music they are interested in and what they want to learn. I try to make learning as fun and interesting as possible because it is the excitement of music that attracts someone to playing guitar or ukulele in the first place. If you can maintain that spark, the discoveries are endless! I feel that teaching keeps me connected with that feeling.

I don't push theory at first, unless that is what the student is interested in learning. Instead, I try to emphasize timing and musicality; something that is inherent in every human being. However, theory can be very interesting once it is presented in a way that is understandable; it can be a map.

My approach to teaching is to bring out the best in every student. If I can help someone to realize their talent, I am fulfilled. Everyone has the ability to be something great and a great teacher should provide the guidance necessary to fuel the students fire and imagination!

I specialize in rock, blues, reggae, and Hawaiian.

guitar, acoustic guitar, music, electric guitar, bass guitar, Ukulele