Guitar with Benjamin O

My musical career started in 6th grade, which was around 2001. That year I started playing guitar and trombone. My main interest was in the guitar so I started taking lessons since the first time I picked up it up. Through out high school I played guitar in the jazz band and trombone in the symphonic and marching bands. I also played guitar in the 2006 New Years day parade in London. I was with the marching band and was a featured soloist during the parade. I was eventually accepted into Berklee College of Music and began attending during the fall of 2008. At Berklee I have performed with many different independent groups at medium sized venues. In addition, I have performed with a series of ensembles, and performance labs here at Berklee. I am still currently attending the college where I am finishing a degree in professional music. The main focus area of my major is music education. Through out my Berklee career I have been teaching privately with a wide range of students. Over those years I really grew to enjoy teaching and learned quite a bit. I truly believe in what I am teaching, music is a gift that everyone should have. I literally gain satisfaction from teaching and sharing music with people. I remember that feeling when I was first getting started with a universe of musical possibilities. What I try to do is get the student aware of that and able to tap into it. I chose my major at Berklee because I know music education is something I believe in. *** Lesson Details *** Expect a fun, laid back, and personalized lesson plan designed to achieve any musical goal you want. I provide a non-threatening atmosphere and I emphasize the fact that it’s ok to make mistakes. Being comfortable is an important part in helping you absorb as much as you can. Together we can explore the universe of music. The most important part of my lesson is for you to have fun doing it. Over the years, I have developed an approach to both guitar and music that WILL make you grow as a musician. For guitar, I know certain short cuts and the real information you need to know. I give complete knowledge of music and the guitar, instead of unproductive technical exercises that don’t help the student. I work well with beginners, and children through adults, at any level. I explain the concepts in a very easy to understand way. Beginners will find it easy to grasp the core concepts that will pave the way to understanding music harmony. My lessons are also tailored so that you are in control of what you want to learn. Whether it is just your favorite songs or a thorough approach to the guitar, you will enjoy music like you never have before. I do incorporate music theory into my lessons because it’s important to develop an understanding of music harmony. Music harmony will let you better understand the nature of music, and how it all relates to the music you like. This will open your playing to vast realm of musical potential. I also combine ideas, techniques, and exercises found in books. More important than the books though is to encompass all your musical preferences and goals into the music. Incorporating your favorite music into the learning process will help make the material fun. I also have experience in advanced teaching; Intermediate to advanced guitar and music theory instruction, Intermediate to advanced music production and performance instruction, college and other types of auditions. I have resources in the music business and especially at Berklee College of Music. I can benefit anyone serious about learning the guitar for whatever reason. *** Studio Equipment *** Area setup for lessons with instruments and recording equipment. Parents can sit on lessons, and are encouraged to sit in on the first few lessons. Metered parking on street. *** Travel Equipment *** I can provide anything needed by the student however if the student only has an electric guitar he or she should have an amp. I primarily teach on an acoustic guitar. *** Specialties *** I can teach majority of genres and styles. I specialize in rock, funk, blues, and jazz improvisation. In Addition, I understand many methods on how to approach the guitar.