Ready to Start or Have Questions? Call us at 800-252-1508

PhoneBubble
James R.

James R.

“Get the tools and tips for musical expression from an experienced musician”

  • Located in

    Seattle, WA, 98122

Get Started

Call us at

800-252-1508
Book Online
  • About
  • Photos & Videos
  • Student Reviews 2
  • 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.
      TooltipCaret
    • 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.
      TooltipCaret
    • Levels: Beginner to Advanced
    • Ages: 5 & up
    • In-Home Lessons: Yes
    • In-Studio Lessons: No
    • Online Lessons: No
    Subjects Taught In Person
    Bass Guitar, Guitar, Music Performance, Music Recording, Music Theory, Songwriting
    Education
    Seattle Central Community College - AA Degree w/ Music emphasis - 2007-2009 (still attending)
    Berklee College of Music - Guitar and Bass, diploma - 2009-2011 (still attending)
    Specialties
    I play all kinds of music and can assist with anything from pop to jazz to metal to folk and acoustic playing. Some of my personal favorite artists are The Beatles, John Frusciante, Paul Simon, The Smashing Pumpkins and Bob Marley & The Wailers.
    Lesson Details
    I'll do any genre, if you want me to make you a song print out, I can have that by the following week and show you how to play it. Guitar and Bass Lessons include units on the following:

    Counting Time
    Scales
    Chords and Chord Scale Sequences
    Approaches (bass ex: two-feel, walking line, bossa nova. guitar ex: noodle, solo, comping, strumming)
    Improvisation (book ex: Jamey Abersold "How to Improvise" if you're into say blues or jazz)

    Singing Lesson Units:

    Warm Up Techniques
    Use ...
    Read More »
    « Read Less
    About
    I've been exploring music since age 13 when I started with bass and guitar. I've gigged around the Puget Sound area with different types of bands. I've been playing classic-rock styles, blues, acoustic folk, big band, r&b, punk rock, reggae/ska/rocksteady and experimental/alternative styles. I've played in numerous college ensembles and studied music in Boston and Seattle for four years including summers.
    Equipment
    In-Home: I bring one of my acoustics to my lessons, unless there is an extra guitar at the home that has been offered. I carry a folder with all my music sheets that I hand out for different students, if you want more sheets from me don't be afraid to ask!

  • James's Photos

    • James R.
    • James R.
    • James R.
    • James R.
    • James R.
    • James R.
    • James R.
    • James R.
  • Rated 5 out of 5 by 2 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Mother of 12 Year Old Student James is a fantastic teacher. He totally resonates with my 12 year old son. He's patient, kind and enthusiastic. Ricky and I both feel lucky to have him as his teacher. Thank you, James! October 3, 2011
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Knowledgeable, Relevant, Friendly James has expertise, talent and a genuine desire to see our son truly learn guitar. He meets our son at his level and makes learning enjoyable and effectual. September 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.

Click Here to Search For Music Teachers