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Martin D.

Martin D.

“Make your dream of playing an instrument come true! Private Lessons in Clearwater! ”

  • Located in

    Clearwater, FL, 33756

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Call us at

800-252-1508
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  • About
  • Photos & Videos
  • Student Reviews 3
  • 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: No
    • In-Studio Lessons: Yes
    • Online Lessons: Yes
    Subjects Taught In Person
    Bass Guitar, Guitar, Piano, Classical Guitar, Banjo, Music Theory
    Subjects Taught Online
    Banjo
    Education

    Excelsior College - Psychology - 1984-1986 (Bachelor's degree received)
    University of Maryland - Liberal arts - 1981-1983 (Associate degree received)

    Specialties
    Guitar and Bass: Beg. to Advanced

    banjo and piano: Beg. - intermediate

    All Styles (except Flamenco) to include Folk, Acoustic Fingerstyle, Rock, Punk, Blues, Country, Church, Bluegrass, Soul, Ragtime and Classical.
    Lesson Details
    I listen closely to the student's wants and together we develop the approach that will help them reach their goals. I use a wide variety of methods from strict classical methods (such as Noad or Parkening) to simply teaching chords and "tabbing out" their favorite songs. However, I do make sure the student understands underlying theory and becomes a musician not a parrot. Each student has different strengths and weaknesses (cognitive and physical) and different amounts of time to practice. I ...
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    About
    I've been teaching professionally for over ten years and have taught over 200 students of all ages and backgrounds how to play. I've played mostly in rock bands but have also done Classical, Jazz, and Country projects. I play a wide selection of styles including Rock, Pop, Country, Ragtime, Folk, Blues, Bluegrass, Metal, Church, Renaissance, Punk, and Funk/Soul. (Everything from Bach to Rock to Bachrach). I graduated from the University of Maryland and Excelsior College.
    Equipment
    In-Studio: Separate studio room, hundreds of music books, 3 chairs, guitars, amps, and bass, keyboard and piano

    In-Home: Students should have own instrument and amp. I bring books and handouts.

  • Martin's Photos

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    Martin's Videos

  • Rated 4.7 out of 5 by 3 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Excellent teacher I would recommend Marty to anyone wanting to take guitar lessons from beginner to advanced, he can meet your needs. He is very knowledge, professional and patient. February 7, 2013
    Rated 4 out of 5 by Great instructor overall Marty was a great instructor to me. Taught me a lot in the 4 lessons I had with him. Very professional and knowledgable in Bass. Unfortunately because my schedule changing I could not keep him as an instructor. My only gripe would be that his studio room gets a little cramped and my guitar sometimes would hit things. Other than that. I would definitely recommend him. February 27, 2013
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Guitar Lessons Mr. Dawkins is an excellent guitar instructor. He possess a vast knowledge of music and one can clearly see the love and passion he has for teaching his students. Dawkins is very patient, encouraging, and always demonstrates a high level of professionalism with each lesson. We have not been disappointed and look forward to each and every lesson! June 8, 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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