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.
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.
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, Classical Guitar, Music Performance, Music Theory, Percussion, Songwriting
Education
Emporia State University - Music - 1999-2001 (Master's degree received)
Emporia State University - Music - 1989-1998 (Bachelor's degree received)
Specialties
The styles that I specialize in are rock, R&B, blues, funk, jazz and afro-Latin rhythms. I have a strong background in World Music, i.e. ethnic scales (gypsy, African, Indian) and rhythms (specifically Brazilian and afro-Caribbean). I use the Classical style as a way of learning proper technique and basic music fundamentals.
Lesson Details
When taking a lesson from me, you can expect a teacher who has a flexible style of instruction. I don't have a one-way teaching approach. I've learned that everyone has their own way of learning. I adapt to my student's learning abilities.
I normally start a student with the proper technique for playing an instrument, and then show them other approaches for various styles of music. I can teach the basics of playing, but I enjoy challenging my students to enhance their skills. I use fun as
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equilibrium to balance my classes. Too much of anything can become boring or excessive.
After 3 or 6 months, you can expect to have learned enough music to play in front of your friends or family. Depending on your taste and goals, you may be able to read music or you may be able to play it by ear. I normally teach ear-training as a part of my lessons. I look forward to helping you reach your goal.
I was introduced to the arts at a very early age. My mother gave me my father's harmonica around the age of four-years old. At that same age, I began drawing pictures by crayon, and then switched to ink pen. Drawing was my art until by the age of twelve I became interested in percussion from watching classmates practice their sticking technique on the cafeteria tables during their lunch period. The next year I enrolled into beginning band and quickly increased my talents to catch-up with my
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classmates by the next year.
I furthered my studies in music at Emporia State University in Emporia, KS. I received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1998, and a Master of Music degree in 2001. While in college, I performed with the Kansas Intercollegiate Jazz Ensemble and a Latin-rock band that toured throughout the eastern and southern area of Kansas and northern area of Oklahoma.
In 2002, I moved to San Diego, California to experience more worldly styles of music. I began teaching in numerous studios, community centers, and playing in various bands. Today, I am playing as a session musician in Brazilian and Trinidadian ensembles.
In-Home: Students should have their own instruments and equipment. I only bring the necessities for me to play musical examples, which are my instruments, amplifier or ipod/laptop.
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.
