Guitar with Rick R.

Learning piano and guitar at a young age, I quickly developed an ear for music which led me in the direction of performance. Writing songs with the guitar as the main instrument gave me the framework needed to compose songs for various bands, tv theme songs, commercials and live theatre. As an experienced school teacher I understand the importance of different learning approaches and creating a clear and enjoyable lesson plan the keeps the student both enlightened and focused. As a laid back person, I enjoy the interaction with the student and don't believe in only directing the course. I thoroughly enjoy making music and equipping students with the skills needed to perform on their own. *** Lesson Details *** Being a good teacher means understanding the musical desires and needs of your student, which method the student learns best by and the techniques used to reach their goals. As a teacher, I'm a laid back person who doesn't just direct the student but interacts with them. As each student may begin at a different level, I am careful to asses their abilities and focus on strengthening their needs. Through my lessons students will overcome the early challenges related to learning a new instrument so that they can begin to feel the ease of playing and sense of accomplishment. Topics covered in lessons: Beginning Students -Familiarization of the instrument -Basic notation -Chords -Strumming patterns. -Timing, using a metronome -Songs (chosen by the instructor and student) -Reading music and TAB -Recording progress 1x month (to me emailed to the student) Advanced Students -Theory -Scales -Chords -Improvising Books used: Hal Leonard - Guitar Method (Complete Edition). Scales and Modes-In The Beginning and others. *** Studio Equipment *** Studio microphones, Metric Halo preamp interface, Logic Pro recording software. Vox AC-30 guitar amplifier. Potable Tascam DR-40 recorder. *** Travel Equipment *** Acoustic or electric guitar, bass or ukulele. Student must have their own musical instrument and purchase the appropriate course book. *** Specialties *** Electric and western guitar (rock, indie, reggae, folk, singer/songwriter). Ukulele (all genres). Electric bass guitar (all genres). Songwriting: I've composed music for touring bands (instrumental and with lyrics). Songwriting for television shows. Experience as a touring musician (USA and in Europe). Recording: won a sound design EMMY in 1997 (proficiency in all studio recording methods)