Guitar with Richard C.

I started taking piano lessons at the ripe age of 4, but I quickly found my calling on the guitar. At the age of 20, and with 13 years of playing experience, I graduated from the Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery (guitar building), after building both an acoustic and an electric guitar and receiving repair certification from Fender. I later completed my Bachelor’s Degree of Music in the field of classical guitar performance, at ASU in 2007. During this time I expanded to other instruments such as the Ukulele, Banjo, Mandolin, Dulcimer and Bass Guitar. I am involved with a number of extra musical activities that are available for you. First, I am part of a weekly jam session where my students meet and jam on a rotation with other music students in the phoenix area (drummers, singers, piano players, other guitarists of all ages) From this has spawned a number of bands. It's a lot of fun! So if you have any interest in starting a band and don't know where to find other players, let me know! Also, I arrange and conduct for an electric guitar ensemble. This class is by far, one of a kind. In this program, I take classical symphonies and arrange all the parts out for electric guitars. Recently, my students just completed Bizet's "Farandole" (check out the audio clip) which I arranged for four electric guitars and one bass guitar. The ensemble program is more detailed oriented than the jam session, so this class is by audition only. *** Lesson Details *** I enjoy Bach and Beethoven, but I still love a good old- fashioned heavy metal band. I have a keen sense of constructive criticism, all while still remembering what it’s like to be a beginner. I pride myself on a teaching style that is refined, yet relaxed. I love to joke around and have fun, but remember, your recital is just around the corner! *** Studio Equipment *** Music room w/ keyboard, guitar, bass, amps, banjos, and seating for parents. Small inventory of guitar supplies available for purchase. *** Travel Equipment *** I provide handouts and bring my own instruments. Students are required to have their own instrument *** Specialties *** I have always believed that improvisation is one of the best ways to learn a fret board. Improv allows the player to just dive in to playing, without having to stare at a piece of paper the whole time. Out of all the things I have been trained to do, I feel that improvisation is my strong point.