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Branden N.

Branden N.

“Honored graduate brings diverse repertoire of music to the guitar, from jazz to classical to rock!”

  • Located in

    Sunnyvale, CA, 94087

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800-252-1508
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  • About
  • Photos & Videos
  • Student Reviews 7
  • Availability
  • How It Works
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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.
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    • Background Check Complete

      Criminal Background Check

      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.
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    • Levels: Beginner to Advanced
    • Ages: 5 & up
    • In-Home Lessons: Yes
    • In-Studio Lessons: Yes
    • Online Lessons: No
    Subjects Taught In Person
    Bass Guitar, Guitar, Classical Guitar, Music Performance, Music Theory
    Education

    University of California, Riverside - Music - 2007-2010 (Bachelor's degree received)

    Specialties
    I can play a variety of styles, though my specialty lies in the field of jazz. While I may not be the most accomplished classical player, I am still quite proficient in classical guitar also. My biggest strength is combining classical technique with jazz songs and styles.
    Lesson Details
    From past experiences teaching students ranging from 7 to 14, Branden has developed many methods in accommodating the different learning styles of students. In general, there is a very casual atmosphere that stresses learning without the strict environment of a classroom. Beginners will be comfortably eased into learning, learning some music theory as well as fundamental musicianship skills along the way. More experienced players will be taught more advanced skills, while delving more into the ...
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    About
    Branden is a highly successful graduate in music with a concentration in composition and jazz performance, completing his degree in only three years. He is a passionate performer as well as a dedicated teacher. He was awarded Cum laude for his great academic achievement. Branden is an accomplished songwriter, composer, musician, and teacher. Originally born in Chicago, Branden is now based in San Jose area, playing random events throughout the South Bay.

    Branden has been hired to play local ...
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    Equipment
    In-Studio: Multiple guitars, two amplifiers, pedalboard, comfortable private space.

    In-Home: I can provide an guitar amplifier and guitar, though I generally expect the student to provide his own guitar. I also expect students to purchase their own books, though I can provide certain sheet music and supplementary supplies if necessary.

  • Branden's Photos

    • Branden N.
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    Branden's Videos

  • Rated 5 out of 5 by 7 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Great for grown ups too! ABOUT TAKE LESSONS I came across TakeLessons and was skeptical about what I would find. The customer service has been excellent (thank you Rafael!). Okay, like any company that would like you to enroll in their service, you might find them pushy. But if you're really interested in learning music of any sort, then go to TakeLesons to get your start. I did and I'm happy :-# ABOUT BRANDEN As a "grown up", finding guitar lessons around the Bay Area is no easy task. I was pretty sure Branden would be impatient and patronizing given I'm really old and don't know the ABCs of music. I was very, very nervous driving up to Branden's with my acoustic guitar. I mean, would he just look at me and say you're too old to learn anything? What a refreshing surprise! My fears were imaginary. I've had 2 lessons so far. Branden is easy going, absolutely gets it and is no-fuss. We stick to our lessons, he is quick to point out where I'm going wrong and very patient #please don't change that Branden!#. He also highlights techniques to help learn smarter. Make sure you take your notebook with you when you go, he gives homework and it would be nice if you track it in the same place. Also, I'm worried about booking appointments at different times and TakeLessons/Branden assured me that can be worked out later. Good to know. January 23, 2013
    Rated 5 out of 5 by My teacher Branden is 5 star. I love my lessons. I am slow but i know i can learn. Trying my best to memorize my lessons. Anyone in the bay how wants a wonderful real teacher Branden is it. July 30, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Branden is a great bass guitar teacher. Branden is a great teacher. He is skilled and patient. He understands that beginners want to get started on challenging songs as soon as possible and he helps with that. After 3 months of lessons, he helped me get accepted to my school's jazz band. September 7, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Branden is doing a great job. My son really enjoys the lessons and is learning a lot. Branden is flexible and seems to adjust his teaching style to his students needs. July 10, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by He teaches well and good in keeping the child interstedin the lesson. May 10, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Very motivating. guess his experience with younger students has made him very patient. December 7, 2011
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Great guitar instructor My son is 8 years old and has been taking guitar lessons with Branden for about 5 months. Branden is an excellent instructor. My son has learned so much in a short amount of time. He loves going to his lessons. My husband and I are extremely pleased with Branden and we highly recommend him! October 2, 2011

  • 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.

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