Discovery Bay, CA Bluegrass Guitar Lessons

Fingerpicking is one of my favorite styles of guitar to play! Whether you want to learn the most advanced techniques or are just starting out and want to get down the basics, I'd be more than happy to help you achieve your goals.

I work with students of ALL AGES, and ALL SKILL LEVELS, so no matter whether you are just starting to explore your passion, or you want to master your craft, I have different options to suit your needs.

I offer Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Classes, and I have several available class times for each skill level and instrument, so students have flexible options to suit their needs.

Beginner's Classes-Learning the Basics of the Instrument, Rhythm Games, Chords, Scales, Introduction to Reading Sheet Music, Playing Full Songs and Arrangements, Introduction to Music Theory

Intermediate Classes-Music Theory and Comprehension, Music Performance, Rhythm vs. Lead Playing, Introduction to Song Writing, Intro to Improvisation, Music Arrangement and Layering for Recording, Adopting Musical Styles

Advanced Classes -Advanced Music Theory, Advanced Improvisation, Introduction to Sound Engineering, and Music Performance, and I can also help students play a multitude of styles such as Rock,

Standard strum accompaniment patterns in various keys, alternating bass lines, walk-ups, hammer-on and pull-off embellishments, flatpicking melodies, banjo-style forward and backward rolls, “old-timey” and traditional tunes, and much more.

I started playing acoustic guitar when I was seven years old. I have been playing and teaching mostly bluegrass, old time, Irish, blues, and swing jazz styles for many years. I have taught both privately and have also done various workshops at festivals. I have taught guitar multiple years for instance at the Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival in PA.
My students learn to have fun with music. Students can work on rhythms, melodies, improvisation, song writing, getting into and/or hanging on in a jam session, etc.

We'll learn standard chord progressions and picking patterns.

Both Finger Picking and Flat Picking styles.
Vintage and modern styles.
I've been teaching for 7 years, but I've been playing for 30+ years.
I typically use Hal Leonard's books as part of my teaching program.
I have the necessary instruments appropriate for teaching both acoustic and electric guitar, as well as mandolin.
Most students see a full letter grade improvement within the first two months.
Performed full-time, professionally, as a musician for 12 years.

Bluegrass and country guitar is close to the same music played. There is many country styles that can be learned. Southern rock music is based on country music except with a different feel. Bluegrass can be learned by using a pick or with your fingers as a classical player.

An important portion of my time is dedicated to teaching. It is important to me to know what are your goals and ambitions. Please fell free to contact me for any question.

As an experienced music educator and Board Certified Music Therapist, I use a creative and student-centered approach to help each student achieve success. Each lesson is carefully crafted and individualized to the student's strengths and learning style. I especially enjoy working with beginners of all ages.

Tim has made a career as a professional musician since receiving his M.A. in Appalachian Music: Roots & Influences from Appalachian State University in the spring of 2014. With experience as a Guitar Center instructor since 2015, an AmeriCorps member with the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative, and an Instructor of Record at Appalachian State, Tim is able to pair his deep knowledge of diverse musical styles, techniques, and theory with his adeptness at teaching. This enables students to quickly increase their skill and gain a deep appreciation for the music they are learning. His teaching approach centers on aural training, and encourages a student-driven curriculum.

Professionally, Tim is a Larrivee Guitars sponsored artist, and has performed all across the United States with the acoustic roots band, Redleg Husky. For more information on Redleg Husky visit: http://redleghusky.com