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Russell R.

Russell R.

“Personalized Guitar Lessons from an experienced teacher. Learn to play with music you love.”

  • Located in

    San Diego, CA, 92109

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Call us at

800-252-1508
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  • 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.
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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 Theory, Ukulele
    Specialties
    Delta/ Classic Blues, Funk, Rock, Classic Rock, Progressive Rock, Top 40, Reggae, Jazz, Scales, Modes, Theory, Chord Melodies, Finger Style guitar, Folk.
    Lesson Details
    My lessons are taught in a relaxed environment. I want my students to feel comfortable and also that they are learning things that can benefit them. I treat every student uniquely because everybody learns their own way. The first few lessons are spent learning basic right and left hand technique. Once I feel the student has a good understanding of these techniques and can demonstrate them, we begin to explore different styles that interest the student. All of my students will at least know 1 ...
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    About
    Playing guitar has surpassed being a hobby for me, it has become a way of life. Every day I practice and write music, trying to further develop my individual style. I have been a working musician since 2005. In that time I have played with bands doing folk, rock, classic rock, blues, jazz, musicals, reggae, punk, funk, covers and much more! I learned there are two main aspects of being a successful guitar player: Listening actively, and practicing regularly. I began teaching in 2006, and have ...
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    Equipment
    In-Studio: My home studio contains 3 electric guitars, 1 electric bass, 2 ukulele (tenor size), 1 acoustic guitars, basic recording equipment and a microphone.

    In-Home: I come to each lesson with an acoustic or electric depending on the nature of the lesson, and I bring tab sheets, a computer (if necessary) as well as a music stand. I expect my students to at least have an acoustic guitar or electric guitar with cable and amplifier, as well as a ...
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  • Russell's Photos

    • Russell R.
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    Russell's Videos

  • Rated 5 out of 5 by 2 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by He's terrific! Russell is well organized , very clear,& PATIENT(!!!), I really like the handouts that he personalized for me. I came out of my 1st lesson very excited to go home and practice and had clear goals to go after. I have never played a musical instrument before so the way he is breaking it all down into small steps is great. He's also just a very nice guy! November 29, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Russell has a wonderful approach. He teaches but encourages the student to continue to teach themselves. He allows freedom to learn songs of the student's choice. He always has appositive attitude and makes learning fun. June 23, 2012

  • 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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