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Derek S.

Derek S.

“Guitar Instructor in Tempe Makes Music Exciting for Beginning and Advanced Students!”

  • Located in

    Tempe, AZ, 85281

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Call us at

800-252-1508
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  • About
  • Photos & Videos
  • Student Reviews 12
  • Availability
  • How It Works
  • Map
  • 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, Music Performance, Music Recording, Music Theory, Songwriting, Upright Bass
    Education

    Mesa Community College - Arts - 2006-2008 (Associate degree received)
    Arizona State University - Psychology - 2008-2010 (Bachelor's degree received)

    Specialties
    Guitar is my number one specialty—particularly classic rock, alternative rock, and popular styles, with a strength in bluesy solo technique. I have a modern teaching style, and I am very up to date with current music trends. I tend to focus on practical and transferable music skills—you know, the things that allow you to play with other musicians, learn new instruments, and be truly creative on the guitar! I am very adept in subjects related to real world music knowledge and application, ...
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    Lesson Details
    "Give a man a fish, and you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish, and you have fed him for a lifetime."

    This is my mentality when it comes to lesson curriculum. There are a lot of things involved in being a well-rounded guitar player, and by only learning to play random radio songs, you're missing out on the big picture! That's why I am an avid proponent of teaching music theory, note reading, music terminology, improvisation, songwriting, and more. These are the things that will feed ...
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    About
    Hello there!

    I love music! To me, it truly is a universal language, and nothing else can capture and express emotion quite like it. Ever since I picked up a guitar 15 years ago, I've been on a quest to learn and speak the language of music. One discovery I have made along the way is that I love teaching it to others, too!

    Over the past 10 years, I've been busy immersing myself in music. The excitement of performing live on stage, the pride of writing a song that touches someone, the ...
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  • Derek's Photos

    • Derek S.
    • Derek S.
  • Rated 5 out of 5 by 12 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Fantastic Instructor! In two lessons, Derek has simplified music for me and given me the tools to play a ton of songs already. I love that his lessons encompass some music theory, understanding of the instrument, and actual playing of a song. I feel like I learn something valuable each time. He gauges your skill level pretty well and delivers instruction at just the right pace. A fantastic instructor who presents music in a way that's easy to understand. I'm so glad I chose him as a guitar/ukelele instructor! June 20, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Excellent instruction. Just some small tips can make a bid differenced in student success. Thanks Derek! March 24, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Derek is an exceptional teacher. He came to our house for guitar lesson which is a huge bonus. He was very patient and knowledgeable, my daughter learned a lot from him. I highly recommend him to anyone that needs guitar lessons. February 21, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Derek is an excellent instructor. Very patient, and in tune with your learning pace.Highly Recommended. January 26, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Great Guitar Teacher! Derek is an excellent teacher that possesses an enormous amount of knowledge in guitar and music theory. Learning from him allowed me to pick up many of the nuances that are often missed with playing the guitar. I would highly recommend him to anyone wanting to improve their guitar skills at any level! November 27, 2011
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Derek is a great instructor. I have really enjoyed my lessons with him and I have learned a lot. He does a good job with teaching you the fundemental and basic concepts of the different courds. I highly recommend him!! October 25, 2011
    Rated 5 out of 5 by He is a really great teacher to kids.Make kids big progress!! September 27, 2011
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Awesome Teacher Derek is awesome teacher and is very knowledgeable in all aspects of music. Since I have been already been playing for 4 years, we have focus more on the theories of music, and song writing, and I can say that he has yet to fail to answer any question that I have thrown at him. From where I used to be and where I am now, I have seen a huge improvement in my ability to compose my own music. Though I can't say much for his technique for teaching the basics, I can say that he is more than qualified to teach the more advanced skills when it comes to playing music. September 7, 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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