Allen D.

“"Repetition is the Mother of Learning"”

Located in
San Diego, CA, 92102

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800-252-1508

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General Info
- TakeLessons Certified Teacher
  
  TakeLessons Certified Teacher
  Our rigorous hiring process requires a completed application; an interview with our professional recruiting specialists; personal and professional reference checks; and annual criminal background checks.
- Background Check Complete
  
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  In order to ensure the safety of our students, all teachers undergo a thorough criminal background check, which includes: Social Security number trace, multi-state criminal search and a nationwide sex offender registry search.
- Levels: Beginner to Advanced
- Ages: 5 & up
- In-Home Lessons: Yes
- In-Studio Lessons: Yes
- Online Lessons: Yes
Subjects Taught In Person

Bass Guitar, Guitar, Music Performance, Music Theory, Songwriting, Ukulele

Subjects Taught Online

Bass Guitar, Guitar, Music Performance, Music Theory, Songwriting, Ukulele

Education

Allan Hancock College - Liberal Arts - 2004-2007 (Associate degree received)

Specialties

I primarily use Hal Leonard method books for beginners when it comes to reading and basic technique. For those who want to learn at the intermediate/advance level, I use the book called Jazz and Pop Guitar (chords and progressions) and Scales and Modes in the Beginning which can cover all aspects of chord theory and improvisation. I also base my teaching curriculum off of my prior lesson plans from my teachers ( based off of Berklee and and GIT) My genres specialize in rock, funk, jazz, indie ... rock, folk, country, blues, pop

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Lesson Details

My goal- To get you to become better than me. I find myself as an easy going teacher, and can provide that push when I see students getting more engaged in their lessons. Students are expected to have their own copy of my recommended method books. I emphasize heavy chord vocabulary and steady rhythm. I believe that in order to be a good lead player, you would have to be a great rhythm player. As we develop technique, you can expect me to incorporate theory as to maintain an even share of the ...

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About

Hello! My name is Allen and I've been playing guitar for 13 years, and teaching for the past 8. I've been performing and writing since the age of 16 with bands in many styles. I'm originally from Santa Maria, CA, and I obtained my knowledge of music theory, performance, and songwriting skills from taking private lessons in the central coast at a place called Coelho's Academy of Music. Our head instructor, Jerry Coelho, was a student of the late Howard Roberts and was one of the first graduating ...

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Equipment

In-Studio: Two small practice amps, cables, method books (personal copies), extra picks, extra guitar, music stand, blank sheet music/tabs for notes, extra strings, music stand, metronome, tuner

In-Home: Music stand, extra guitar (if needed), blank staff/tab paper, tuner, metronome, battery powered amp, cables, extra strings (if needed), picks
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Getting Started
Excited about jumping into music lessons? Before you can get to the guitar tabs, violin concertos, and vocal riffs, take a moment to think about the logistics of your lessons.

Lesson Length

There are a few things to consider when choosing between 30-, 45- or 60-minute lessons. First and foremost, take your age and experience level into account. You'll also want to think about your long- and short-term goals, and the time you'll need to reach them. Most importantly, consider how long you or your child is able to stay focused.

Lesson Location

Teachers have the option to display availability for in-home, in-studio, and online music lessons. In-home lessons take place at your house, in-studio lessons are conducted at the teacher's home or professional studio, and online lessons are taught over the internet via live video chat.

Book Your Lessons Online
Scheduling your lessons is simple and quick! The prompts will guide you through each step, from securing your lesson time to selecting the payment plan that works best for you.

Scheduling Lessons

After you've selected your teacher, click on the Availability tab to see which time slots and days are open.

Booking Options

Click the "Book Online" button to get started. Enter in your contact information, and the prompts will guide you through payments, program options, and confirming your schedule. Learn more about our booking policies.

Payment and Billing

We make paying for your lessons convenient and hassle-free! Prices vary based on several factors, including the city you live in, the length of your lessons, and whether you're taking them at home, in your teacher's studio, or online. Lessons are paid for in advance, which locks in your time slot.

Signing Your Customer Agreement

Signing your Customer Agreement and completing your Student Questionnaire is the last step! The questionnaire will give your instructor valuable information about your goals and experience level, and give him or her time to create a customized lesson plan right from the start.

Start Your Lessons
Now the excitement can really begin! Consider the following to ensure an exceptional first lesson...

Prepare for Your First Lesson

Once you've completed the last step, your teacher will call you within the next couple of days to confirm your first lesson time and provide you with directions to their studio, if needed. We also encourage you to discuss your goals and any other questions you may have.

What To Expect

Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an assessment of where you are in your studies. At a beginner level, you might review the basics of your instrument, such as the different parts, how to hold it correctly, and proper care and maintenance. For voice, this may be the time you learn about breathing and posture.

Reach the Goals You Set

Every TakeLessons student is unique, and so is your lesson plan! You'll work with your instructor to develop a plan suited to meet your specific goals. Most TakeLessons instructors will also keep track of your progress with a lesson journal.

Programs & Pricing
The billing management tools in your online account help you keep track of your upcoming payments. And with several lesson programs available, you can select the one that fits your individual needs.

100% Money Back Guarantee

If you're not completely satisfied with your first lesson, we'll gladly find you another instructor or refund your entire lesson purchase.

Can I pay when I get to the lesson?

In order to reserve your time slot, we require payment at the time of booking, which must be at least seven days before your first lesson takes place.

How does billing work?

Lessons are paid for in advance, which reserves your time slot and the teacher that you want. Your specific billing date will depend on the lesson program you select.

What forms of payment do you accept?

At this time, we accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You also have the option to pay with a debit card. We do not accept payment via cash, check, or money order.

Do you offer a free trial lesson?

We don't offer a free trial lesson; however, we're so confident that you'll love your lessons that we offer new customers a 100% Money Back Guarantee. If you take your first lesson and decide that you don't want to continue, we'll refund the amount you paid INCLUDING the lesson you've already taken. To request the Money Back Guarantee, simply notify us within 72 hours of your first lesson.

Do you offer any discounts?

At this time, we don't offer any discounts. However, if you are booking two students for consecutive in-home lessons, you'll only be charged one travel fee, instead of one fee per lesson.