Private Guitar tutoring lessons San Leandro, CA.
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Do you want to learn how to play the guitar? If yes, then you’ve come to the right place. Private guitar lessons and classes with a TakeLessons Certified™ teacher near you - whether in-home, studio, or online classes - accelerates progress, increases enjoyment, and improves every beginner's chances of becoming an expert player.
Your private instructor can teach you the history of the guitar, in addition to the technical aspects such as chord progression, strumming patterns, and body parts, so that you can maximize your learning experience.
Our guitar instructors work with students of all ages: kids, teenagers, adults, and even seniors. We guarantee a customized experience that will exceed your expectations. In fact, we are so committed to your happiness that we offer all new customers a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee on your first lesson.
About Jesse M.
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Beginner
I'm not currently taking beginner guitar students. Please refer to my studio partner Melissa:
https://takelessons.com/profile/melissa-m62
Intermediate
Learn about common variations of the tonalities you already know and start to venture into more complex rhythm ideas like polyrhythms. Also start to build the chops to learn parts more accurately when learning songs.
Advanced
Expand into more complex polyrhythms as well as asymmetrical meters. Also expand harmony and melody to include modes and chromaticism. Push your skills through original creations or original arrangements of existing material.
About Jesse
*Disclaimer*
I'm currently not taking beginner students on voice/singing, guitar, bass, drums, piano, and ukulele. I highly recommend my studio partners Melissa though. Please check out her profile:
https://takelessons.com/profile/melissa-m62
My Background
I've been playing with classical ensembles and rock bands since 2001. Even though I started on classical trombone and rock guitar, I have come to expand my repertoire to a variety of instruments and genres. During my time in college I performed with the University choir, orchestra, and band. I also have organized, wrote/arranged for, and performed with a variety of bands in my home state of New Mexico, as well as Japan, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Since 2006 I have been an active teacher. This profession has taken me everywhere from working with classical guitar cla
I'm currently not taking beginner students on voice/singing, guitar, bass, drums, piano, and ukulele. I highly recommend my studio partners Melissa though. Please check out her profile:
https://takelessons.com/profile/melissa-m62
My Background
I've been playing with classical ensembles and rock bands since 2001. Even though I started on classical trombone and rock guitar, I have come to expand my repertoire to a variety of instruments and genres. During my time in college I performed with the University choir, orchestra, and band. I also have organized, wrote/arranged for, and performed with a variety of bands in my home state of New Mexico, as well as Japan, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Since 2006 I have been an active teacher. This profession has taken me everywhere from working with classical guitar cla
sses in New Mexico high schools to Elementary students in Japan to a variety of private students of various musical instruments and genres everywhere I've been. Since relocating to the Bay Area in 2010, I've had the pleasure of working with lots of great students from kids to adults with a wide range of ambitions. Since 2012 I've been running my own full time studio.
Philosophy of Learning
Lessons are generally designed to work towards giving students the tools to accomplish their goals and become increasingly independent over time. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. What kind of music do you want to make? I'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.
I also love to help students put together a song, record, and produce it for them so that they can have a recording to share with their friends and family.
I also hold events for my students. (Check out our pictures and videos below!)
Younger students have opportunities to perform for friends and family at my studio every few months. Once or twice a year we'll also stage a larger event off site for more individual students and bands classes to perform.
Adult students also occasionally have events where they get a chance to get together and play music as well.
Aside from in-studio lessons, students also have the option to sign up for online lessons via Skype.
(*Online lessons offered during different times than in-studio lessons.)
*Unfortunately due to scheduling issues, I'm not currently accepting students for bi-weekly lessons. I can do regular weekly lessons, or occasional drop-in lessons, but bi-weekly appointments make it really hard for me to give the best scheduled times to my existing weekly students. I'm sorry for the inconvenience.
My studio is equipped with:
*Music Stands
*A P.A. System
*Vocal and instrument microphones
*Guitars, Basses, Ukulele, Banjos, etc
*Two guitar amps and a bass amp
*Various percussion including a fully equipped acoustic drum set
*A Roland V-Drums electronic drum set
*An electric piano console and Yamaha organ
*A MicroKorg Synthesizer
*A Tuba, Trombone, Cornet, Saxophone, and Flute
*An extensive physical and virtual music library
*A recording system that students are not only welcome to use but encouraged to
*HD Webcam and condenser microphone for high fidelity online lessons via Skype
Philosophy of Learning
Lessons are generally designed to work towards giving students the tools to accomplish their goals and become increasingly independent over time. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. What kind of music do you want to make? I'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.
I also love to help students put together a song, record, and produce it for them so that they can have a recording to share with their friends and family.
I also hold events for my students. (Check out our pictures and videos below!)
Younger students have opportunities to perform for friends and family at my studio every few months. Once or twice a year we'll also stage a larger event off site for more individual students and bands classes to perform.
Adult students also occasionally have events where they get a chance to get together and play music as well.
Aside from in-studio lessons, students also have the option to sign up for online lessons via Skype.
(*Online lessons offered during different times than in-studio lessons.)
*Unfortunately due to scheduling issues, I'm not currently accepting students for bi-weekly lessons. I can do regular weekly lessons, or occasional drop-in lessons, but bi-weekly appointments make it really hard for me to give the best scheduled times to my existing weekly students. I'm sorry for the inconvenience.
My studio is equipped with:
*Music Stands
*A P.A. System
*Vocal and instrument microphones
*Guitars, Basses, Ukulele, Banjos, etc
*Two guitar amps and a bass amp
*Various percussion including a fully equipped acoustic drum set
*A Roland V-Drums electronic drum set
*An electric piano console and Yamaha organ
*A MicroKorg Synthesizer
*A Tuba, Trombone, Cornet, Saxophone, and Flute
*An extensive physical and virtual music library
*A recording system that students are not only welcome to use but encouraged to
*HD Webcam and condenser microphone for high fidelity online lessons via Skype
...
Reviews
· Singing · In studio
· Singing · In studio
· Violin · In studio
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Jesse M.
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
starting at
$65
/ 30-min
About Aidan C.
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About Aidan
I have been playing guitar since I was 10 and loving music my whole life. I have been in numerous rock bands, the high-school jazz band, classical guitar duos, trios, chamber ensembles, and even played mandolin in a bluegrass band. I received my Bachelor of Music at Guilford College as a student of Kami Rowan. During my third year of study there, I was nominated for the Guilford College Art Award as the outstanding student and performer in the music department. In February of 2010, I had the honor of being a member of the guitar orchestra during a performance of Shingo Fuji’s Concierto de los Angeles, alongside soloist, William Kanengiser. I recently completed my Master of Music degree at the Cleveland Institute of Music where I studied with Grammy winning guitarist, Jason Vieaux. There I was awarded the Rosalia Ablan Memorial Prize for m
y accomplishments on the guitar. In addition to guitar performance, I have studied music theory, jazz theory, and pedagogy. I am a native of San Francisco and have been teaching privately since 2007. No matter what a student's interests are, I can give them a rock solid foundation in technique, performance, reading, and theory.
*** Lesson Details ***
In my lessons I make it a priority to create an easy-going, non-intimidating environment, so that you, the student, can focus on your goals and learning, approach music at your own pace, and really look forward to coming in to lessons. Whether you are interested in electric, steel-string, or classical, Metallica, Mozart, or anything in between, I can teach you technique, musicianship skills, and songs that fit your personal interests.
For beginning students I like to teach a mixture of basic theory, music-reading, and chords/scales. Soon after, the student can begin to bring in songs that s/he is interested in, and I can start to build lessons around specific styles/pieces. I teach all levels and all ages, and I would love to share my passion and knowledge with you, and gain you skill and confidence on the guitar, as well as a deep understanding of music.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room w/ seating for parents
*** Specialties ***
I specialize in classical guitar, and am very familiar with the teachings of Aaron Shearer. His methods and practices provide the basis for how I teach technique and how i approach learning pieces. I also supplement his ideas with those of Pepe Romero, William Kanengiser, and Scott Tenant (particularly their views on the right-hand).
I also love teaching pop/rock guitar on steel-string or electric, and TAB-ing/teaching songs the student brings in. I use Troy Grady's method for developing right-hand picking/string-crossing technique. Whether the student prefers classical or popular s/he will get a great foundation in technique, music theory and music reading.
*** Lesson Details ***
In my lessons I make it a priority to create an easy-going, non-intimidating environment, so that you, the student, can focus on your goals and learning, approach music at your own pace, and really look forward to coming in to lessons. Whether you are interested in electric, steel-string, or classical, Metallica, Mozart, or anything in between, I can teach you technique, musicianship skills, and songs that fit your personal interests.
For beginning students I like to teach a mixture of basic theory, music-reading, and chords/scales. Soon after, the student can begin to bring in songs that s/he is interested in, and I can start to build lessons around specific styles/pieces. I teach all levels and all ages, and I would love to share my passion and knowledge with you, and gain you skill and confidence on the guitar, as well as a deep understanding of music.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room w/ seating for parents
*** Specialties ***
I specialize in classical guitar, and am very familiar with the teachings of Aaron Shearer. His methods and practices provide the basis for how I teach technique and how i approach learning pieces. I also supplement his ideas with those of Pepe Romero, William Kanengiser, and Scott Tenant (particularly their views on the right-hand).
I also love teaching pop/rock guitar on steel-string or electric, and TAB-ing/teaching songs the student brings in. I use Troy Grady's method for developing right-hand picking/string-crossing technique. Whether the student prefers classical or popular s/he will get a great foundation in technique, music theory and music reading.
...
Reviews
· Classical Guitar · In home
· Guitar · In home
Aidan is a fantastic teacher. He is able to tailor his teaching style to each individual student, and keep the lesson fun and engaging even while going over complicated music theory concepts. He is very flexible both with his schedule (he's quite understanding that adult students often have conflicts that prevent them from attending class regularly) and with his musical abilities (he appears comfortable diving into most genres of music and can easily pick out a tune by ear).
I highly recommend taking a class with Aidan.
· Guitar · In studio
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Aidan C.
San Francisco, CA 94131
starting at
$25
/ 30-min
About Jeremy P.
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Work on any subjects you'd like to cover! Whether you want to accompany yourself singing, learn to play Bach, or learn country, blues, jazz, rock, or a little bit of everything, we can customize your lessons to work on what you want to learn! Please feel free to reach out with any questions!
About Jeremy
I began playing guitar by ear around age ten. I learned rock songs from records for a few years, and then I began a more serious study of theory in high school. Over the next several years I alternated between pursuing my music degree and playing in bands all over the midwest. In 2004, I transferred from Indiana University to Sonoma State to focus completely on jazz and finish my degree. I have worked with groups and privately, with all ages and skill levels. I am very flexible with the direction of your study and will help you with whatever aspects of your playing you would like to develop.
*** Lesson Details ***
As a teacher, I am here for your development. I will do my best to take the lessons in the direction that you want to go, while still providing adequate instruction in music fundamentals.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Large
*** Lesson Details ***
As a teacher, I am here for your development. I will do my best to take the lessons in the direction that you want to go, while still providing adequate instruction in music fundamentals.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Large
room w/ seating for parents
*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide my own guitar for examples, and i bring a pencil. Student provides guitar, and if they want to they provide a book. Otherwise I create a custom curriculum from scratch and they provide staff paper.
*** Specialties ***
I have studied classical guitar, jazz, and have played mostly rock and pop gigs.
*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide my own guitar for examples, and i bring a pencil. Student provides guitar, and if they want to they provide a book. Otherwise I create a custom curriculum from scratch and they provide staff paper.
*** Specialties ***
I have studied classical guitar, jazz, and have played mostly rock and pop gigs.
...
Reviews
· Guitar · In studio
· Guitar · In home
· Guitar · In home
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Jeremy P.
San Francisco, CA 94116
starting at
$35
/ 30-min
About David W.
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From Classical to Jazz, and lots of World Music in between.
Guitar was my main instrument until I began playing Bass in bands in 2000. Since then Guitar is still my main 'go-to' for practice at home, teaching music theory, and composition.
About David
Hi there, and thanks for viewing my TakeLessons profile! I am excited to be a part of the team in Berkeley, CA.
I started teaching lessons while in music school for Classical Guitar in 1996. From 1998 onwards, I played with a variety of musicians from Africa and Latin America, as well the as great American traditions of gospel, funk, jazz, and bluegrass. All the while, I continued to study music theory and composition, on my own and in private lessons with both well-known players and local professionals. Flamenco and Indian Classical music have also been great interests which I am still involved with.
Though guitar is generally my "go-to" instrument, I often use a MIDI keyboard for composition, and studied/performed on bass for 10 years. The last few years, I have begun to develop my voice as well.
Since 2006, I have been teachi
I started teaching lessons while in music school for Classical Guitar in 1996. From 1998 onwards, I played with a variety of musicians from Africa and Latin America, as well the as great American traditions of gospel, funk, jazz, and bluegrass. All the while, I continued to study music theory and composition, on my own and in private lessons with both well-known players and local professionals. Flamenco and Indian Classical music have also been great interests which I am still involved with.
Though guitar is generally my "go-to" instrument, I often use a MIDI keyboard for composition, and studied/performed on bass for 10 years. The last few years, I have begun to develop my voice as well.
Since 2006, I have been teachi
ng music theory and composition at Ex’pression College in Emeryville. This is a digital production environment for the arts, and my students come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are musicians/aspiring musicians, and some are primarily interested in working with technology; but all are audio enthusiasts and love music!
*** Lesson Details ***
Whether you are a complete beginner or have been playing gigs for years, are very young or old, I have something to offer you!
How we structure lessons depends in part on you and your goals, as well as your learning style. Having taught music for over 15 years, I have a large amount of resources at my disposal, and can either teach from a method book, or a variety of materials, some of which are my own creations.
I also like to use technology as a teaching aid, and can show you how to use your own computer, keyboard, or music production application (garageband, etc) to practice and create music at home. Another thing that I offer is to make recordings of key parts of the lesson, either as an audio or video file, or both. These can be shared with you through email, dropbox, or a flash drive if you bring one along to your lesson.
Please contact TakeLessons if you have any further questions! I look forward to meeting and working with you or your child.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Home studio: Front room with computer station, guitars, music stand. Waiting area with couches and table, and parents can sit in on lessons. Street parking available, no pets.
College: practice rooms and classrooms available with computers and MIDI controllers.
*** Specialties ***
On guitar and bass, I have experience in world music including Africa, Latin America, and Flamenco. I also love American traditional music, including funk, jazz, rock, and gospel. I specialize in teaching music theory and composition, no matter what instrument. Rhythmic concepts applied to any instrument are a favorite topic.
*** Lesson Details ***
Whether you are a complete beginner or have been playing gigs for years, are very young or old, I have something to offer you!
How we structure lessons depends in part on you and your goals, as well as your learning style. Having taught music for over 15 years, I have a large amount of resources at my disposal, and can either teach from a method book, or a variety of materials, some of which are my own creations.
I also like to use technology as a teaching aid, and can show you how to use your own computer, keyboard, or music production application (garageband, etc) to practice and create music at home. Another thing that I offer is to make recordings of key parts of the lesson, either as an audio or video file, or both. These can be shared with you through email, dropbox, or a flash drive if you bring one along to your lesson.
Please contact TakeLessons if you have any further questions! I look forward to meeting and working with you or your child.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Home studio: Front room with computer station, guitars, music stand. Waiting area with couches and table, and parents can sit in on lessons. Street parking available, no pets.
College: practice rooms and classrooms available with computers and MIDI controllers.
*** Specialties ***
On guitar and bass, I have experience in world music including Africa, Latin America, and Flamenco. I also love American traditional music, including funk, jazz, rock, and gospel. I specialize in teaching music theory and composition, no matter what instrument. Rhythmic concepts applied to any instrument are a favorite topic.
...
Reviews
· Bass Guitar · In studio
· Music Theory · In studio
· Guitar · In home
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David W.
Berkeley, CA 94703
starting at
$30
/ 30-min
About Cristopher H.
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I can teach students from anywhere between a beginning level or an advanced level attempting to advance technique.
About Cristopher
As a musician that has played for about a decade, I have studied and worked to become a teacher. I've played in numerous bands, have worked in studios, and have been teaching for about four years now and am always finding new ways to understand and help accomplish my students' goals. I've studied music theory and composition from Mike Keller (Letters From the fire) and David Meckler (Canada College music department). I'm currently working on an independent album that has begun recording.
*** Lesson Details ***
I find it's easiest to asses the level at which a student is at and work from there, moving towards the goal set by the student using music the student already enjoys, not kiddy books with songs they'll never actually play. My styles focus on technique and work back to theory. I play anything and everything from country to Santa
*** Lesson Details ***
I find it's easiest to asses the level at which a student is at and work from there, moving towards the goal set by the student using music the student already enjoys, not kiddy books with songs they'll never actually play. My styles focus on technique and work back to theory. I play anything and everything from country to Santa
na, to Metallica, and to everything in between. I teach from covers to original works.
*** Studio Equipment ***
The equipment I have for the studio are a couple of my electric guitars: Midnight Blue Schecter Omen 6, Ibanez S470DXQM, KSE ASG, Ibanez F0509338, Fender Stratocaster. My BOSS ME-33 special effects pedal, my Raven RG20 amplifier, and my Fender Frontman 15G amplifier. I also have multiple iMacs for Garageband and a recording studio. (services of which cost additional value for use)
*** Travel Equipment ***
The equipment I have for travel are a couple of my electric guitars: matte black LTD Deluxe EC-1000, gray/black Schecter Omen 6, KSE ASG, Ibanez F05, and a Fender Stratocaster. My BOSS ME-33 special effects pedal, my Raven RG20 amplifier, my Fender Frontman 15G amplifier, and my Fender Mustang 200.
*** Specialties ***
I specialize in technique, so I can help even the newest of players find their style and learn how to work on memorizing the fretboard without even having to look at it or your finger placement. I can also help more advanced players smooth out their way of playing.
*** Studio Equipment ***
The equipment I have for the studio are a couple of my electric guitars: Midnight Blue Schecter Omen 6, Ibanez S470DXQM, KSE ASG, Ibanez F0509338, Fender Stratocaster. My BOSS ME-33 special effects pedal, my Raven RG20 amplifier, and my Fender Frontman 15G amplifier. I also have multiple iMacs for Garageband and a recording studio. (services of which cost additional value for use)
*** Travel Equipment ***
The equipment I have for travel are a couple of my electric guitars: matte black LTD Deluxe EC-1000, gray/black Schecter Omen 6, KSE ASG, Ibanez F05, and a Fender Stratocaster. My BOSS ME-33 special effects pedal, my Raven RG20 amplifier, my Fender Frontman 15G amplifier, and my Fender Mustang 200.
*** Specialties ***
I specialize in technique, so I can help even the newest of players find their style and learn how to work on memorizing the fretboard without even having to look at it or your finger placement. I can also help more advanced players smooth out their way of playing.
...
Reviews
· Guitar · In home
· Guitar · In home
· Guitar · In home
First lesson with my son was a big success.
Looking forward to the next lesson.
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Cristopher H.
Redwood City, CA 94061
starting at
$47
/ 45-min
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About Michael F.
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Private instruction includes everything from basic chording to advanced theory and technique, with a focus on the mechanics of the instrument. Topics covered include rhythm and technique studies, chord and scale theory, chord progressions, songwriting, musicality and performance, and improvisation. These topics are studied at a rate commensurate with the studentʼs ability.
About Michael
My name is Mike, and I have been teaching the guitar for over 20 years. I have helped hundreds of musicians develop their skills. As a performer, I have played in many bands, and shared the stage with performers such as Imagine Dragons, Train, Blues Traveler, Camper Van Beethoven, and countless others. In addition to teaching music and rock ensemble to the students at the University of San Francisco, I maintain an active schedule of teaching, performing and recording. My most memorable musical experience was playing "Imagine" on my guitar for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in 2003.
My teaching philosophy is that if you understand the instrument, you can play any style of music you choose. The more you dedicate yourself to learning the fretboard, the more freely you can express yourself musically.
Private instruction includes eve
My teaching philosophy is that if you understand the instrument, you can play any style of music you choose. The more you dedicate yourself to learning the fretboard, the more freely you can express yourself musically.
Private instruction includes eve
rything from basic chording to advanced theory and technique, with a focus on the mechanics of the instrument. Topics covered include rhythm and technique studies, chord and scale theory, chord progressions, songwriting, musicality and performance, and improvisation. These topics are studied at a rate commensurate with the studentʼs ability.
...
Reviews
· Guitar ·
· Guitar ·
· Guitar ·
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Michael F.
San Francisco, CA 94117
starting at
$50
/ 30-min
About Rob G.
Close
Learning an instrument is not just about theory and discipline--- its about the joy of expanding and sharing one’s world with other people.
This 30-year veteran teacher, performer and recording artist can get you started as a beginner, or bring you to the next level as an intermediate or advanced player.
The guitar is an amazingly verstile instrument, with it’s capacity to produce melody, harmony and percussion, all at the same time. As my student, you’ll be taught to maximize the power of this ever ancient/ever new instrument by learning: Rhythm (strumming and finger picking) Melody (playing the “tune” of your favorite songs); Harmony (the chords and multi-note patterns that build off the melodic leads.)
A good player is more than a mechanic who knows positions and technique: A good player knows MUSIC, the theory and patterns that shape the actions of their hands.
Fun and highly-individualized lessons...
Patient teacher who wants you to love music
Specializing in ...
About Rob
The guitar is an amazingly verastile instrument, with it’s capacity to produce melody, harmony and percussion, all at the same time!
As my student, you’ll be taught to maximize the power of this ever ancient, ever new instrument by learning:
Rhythm (strumming and finger picking)
Melody (playing the “tune” of your favorite songs):
Harmony (the chords and multi-note patterns that build off the melodic leads)
A good player is more than a mechanic who knows positions and technique:
A good player knows MUSIC, the theory and patterns that shape the actions of their hands.
Learning an instrument is not just about theory and discipine, its about the joy of expanding and sharing one’s world with other people.
This 30-year veteran teacher, performer and recording artist can get you started as a beginner, or bring you to the next lev
As my student, you’ll be taught to maximize the power of this ever ancient, ever new instrument by learning:
Rhythm (strumming and finger picking)
Melody (playing the “tune” of your favorite songs):
Harmony (the chords and multi-note patterns that build off the melodic leads)
A good player is more than a mechanic who knows positions and technique:
A good player knows MUSIC, the theory and patterns that shape the actions of their hands.
Learning an instrument is not just about theory and discipine, its about the joy of expanding and sharing one’s world with other people.
This 30-year veteran teacher, performer and recording artist can get you started as a beginner, or bring you to the next lev
el as an intermediate or advanced player.
Fun and highly-individualized lessons...
Patient teacher who wants you to love music
Specializing in acoustic-style playing
Lessons in my studio or at your home/office
Fun and highly-individualized lessons...
Patient teacher who wants you to love music
Specializing in acoustic-style playing
Lessons in my studio or at your home/office
...
Reviews
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Rob G.
San Francisco, CA 94114
starting at
$50
/ 30-min
About Garry N.
Close
Learning music can empower your entire life! No matter if you are a beginner or a pro, I offer myself as an effective partner and coach to your creative expansion and musical self expression. What I bring to the table is over twenty years of experience as a teacher, seasoned professional musician, productivity and awareness educator, and seminar facilitator. I offer a unique transformational approach to learning that will supercharge your results. What you bring is an open mind and a commitment to learn. Learn the songs you want, at the pace you want. Discover your musical voice and your source of inspiration. See music theory and concepts in a new light that directly applies to your performance in the moment. Let's get started!
About Garry
My approach to music education can be summed up in this favorite quote by composer Robert Schumann - "It is music's lofty mission to shed light on the depths of the human heart".
I offer all aspects of music education including guitar, bass, ukulele, arrangers piano and recording technology and I promise accelerated results.
I am a an honor graduate of the prestigious Berklee College Of Music in Boston. During my studies there, I was awarded, for three consecutive years, high achievement scholarships.
At Berklee, I started my career in music education with being offered the position of Ear Training Laboratory Manager. Later, I put together an ensemble class for four guitars and rhythm section called 'The Baroque Jazz Quartet' which was added to the advanced electives offered by Berklee.
I'm also known for leading a workshop c
I offer all aspects of music education including guitar, bass, ukulele, arrangers piano and recording technology and I promise accelerated results.
I am a an honor graduate of the prestigious Berklee College Of Music in Boston. During my studies there, I was awarded, for three consecutive years, high achievement scholarships.
At Berklee, I started my career in music education with being offered the position of Ear Training Laboratory Manager. Later, I put together an ensemble class for four guitars and rhythm section called 'The Baroque Jazz Quartet' which was added to the advanced electives offered by Berklee.
I'm also known for leading a workshop c
alled the "Music Of Life Seminar". This work originated out of my collaboration with cellist and Senior Lecturer in Public Leadership, Ronald A. Heifetz who is the co-founder of the Center for Public Leadership at Harvard University.
I've studied privately with world-class musicians, the likes of; Tuck Andress on guitar, Kit Walker on piano. Herb Pomeroy for arranging, Mike Gibbs for composition, Mick Goodrick on guitar (ECM recording artist), the legendary Lenny Breau on guitar, Kai Eckhardt on bass, and in my formative years, Jazz great Charlie Byrd, among others.
I have played key roles in public performances with such notables as; acclaimed actress and singer Jill Eikenberry, keyboardist Raphael of the ‘Music To Disappear in’ fame, Grammy Award winning pianist Laura Sullivan, new age singer Sophia, among others. I have also performed in notable venues on both the East and West coast such as the Angelico Hall and the Berklee Performance Center.
I have co-produced, with producer Wayne Wallace of Bon Vivant Productions (Machete' Ensemble and Pete Escovedo Orchestra), my own album of instrumental music through the label Delvian Records called “Motion” were I was joined by some top players from the music community.
“When my students experience a greater and more inclusive sense of humanity and of their own and others beauty, I am filled up with joy. Imparting the energy and feeling of music creation is a shared experience of freedom unlike anything else. This is why I have a passion for music and music education”.
I've studied privately with world-class musicians, the likes of; Tuck Andress on guitar, Kit Walker on piano. Herb Pomeroy for arranging, Mike Gibbs for composition, Mick Goodrick on guitar (ECM recording artist), the legendary Lenny Breau on guitar, Kai Eckhardt on bass, and in my formative years, Jazz great Charlie Byrd, among others.
I have played key roles in public performances with such notables as; acclaimed actress and singer Jill Eikenberry, keyboardist Raphael of the ‘Music To Disappear in’ fame, Grammy Award winning pianist Laura Sullivan, new age singer Sophia, among others. I have also performed in notable venues on both the East and West coast such as the Angelico Hall and the Berklee Performance Center.
I have co-produced, with producer Wayne Wallace of Bon Vivant Productions (Machete' Ensemble and Pete Escovedo Orchestra), my own album of instrumental music through the label Delvian Records called “Motion” were I was joined by some top players from the music community.
“When my students experience a greater and more inclusive sense of humanity and of their own and others beauty, I am filled up with joy. Imparting the energy and feeling of music creation is a shared experience of freedom unlike anything else. This is why I have a passion for music and music education”.
...
Reviews
· Music Performance · In studio
· Acoustic Guitar · In studio
· Arrangement and Composition · In studio
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Garry N.
Concord, CA 94521
starting at
$17
/ 15-min
About Nathan B.
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Nathan has the ability to break down even the most esoteric concepts and techniques into digestible, practical chunks. Immersed in a life of music, Nathan has gleaned insights from the Bay Area's finest musicians along with having been steeped in rock, classical music, Jazz and Blues, Hip Hop, and experimental/mixed media endeavors as a guitar-centric multi-instrumentalist. Whatever your goals are, you are guaranteed to leave with a multitude of tools in your toolbelt-- no matter your age or experience level.
About Nathan
I'm a conservatory-trained musician and new media artist who has gleaned musical and pedagogical insights from some of the Bay Area's finest. I have a penchant for making the esoteric digestible, and you are guaranteed to leave with a personalized set of tools in your toolbelt no matter your age, skill level, or genre of focus.
...
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Nathan B.
Oakland, CA 94609
starting at
$42
/ 30-min
About Kenta S.
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If you're interested in learning to improvise, compose, or just shred on the guitar I'll help you get there! I have wealth of experience performing jazz and improvised music professionally but am open to all sorts of music and teaching what will help you progress as a musician! I've performed with all sorts of bands from jazz, indie rock, to metal and actively produce and engineer modern, genre-crossing music.
I've taught both privately and for institutions, for a whole range of skill levels and ages; from complete beginners just picking up the guitar to college level students studying more advanced concepts.
About Kenta
I’ll keep it short but a little bit about myself!
I’m a professional musician and audio engineer. I’m mostly involved with jazz and improvised music and have a lot of experience in performance and composition of such music. I recently graduated the New School of Jazz in NYC with a BFA in Jazz performance. I’ve performed extensively with all sorts of bands ranging from jazz, indie rock, to metal, and have had the chance to share the stage with some amazing musicians such as Omar Hakim and Nir Felder.
I blend all sorts of genres and sounds in my own weird music, so I’m welcoming of all genres and styles.
I have quite a bit of experience teaching both privately and for institutions, for a whole range of skill levels and ages. I’ve taught complete beginners just picking up the guitar as well as college level students studying more advanced
I’m a professional musician and audio engineer. I’m mostly involved with jazz and improvised music and have a lot of experience in performance and composition of such music. I recently graduated the New School of Jazz in NYC with a BFA in Jazz performance. I’ve performed extensively with all sorts of bands ranging from jazz, indie rock, to metal, and have had the chance to share the stage with some amazing musicians such as Omar Hakim and Nir Felder.
I blend all sorts of genres and sounds in my own weird music, so I’m welcoming of all genres and styles.
I have quite a bit of experience teaching both privately and for institutions, for a whole range of skill levels and ages. I’ve taught complete beginners just picking up the guitar as well as college level students studying more advanced
concepts.
You can find my work online with my band (TinderGodz) or under my name.
Feel free to give me a shout if you’re interested or want to ask me any questions!
All the best,
Kenta Shimakawa
You can find my work online with my band (TinderGodz) or under my name.
Feel free to give me a shout if you’re interested or want to ask me any questions!
All the best,
Kenta Shimakawa
...
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Kenta S.
Palo Alto, CA 94306
starting at
$42
/ 30-min
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Guitar Lesson Reviews from Students
Students are raving about their Guitar instructors on TakeLessons. Check out some of these recent reviews.
Review by Edward
"Groovy Judy is a "great guitar teacher" with "unique" and "very effective" teaching methods.
Thanks to Judy, my son Joseph plays complete songs very well
Thanks to Judy, my son Joseph plays complete songs very well
by Pink Floyd, Green Day, Modest Mouse and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers using strumming and picking.
Joseph is extremely happy with the guitar skills that he received from Groovy Judy !"
Joseph is extremely happy with the guitar skills that he received from Groovy Judy !"
...
San Francisco, CA teacher:
Judy G.
Review by Debora Haaxman
"What a nice, enthusiastic and great instructor with the students best interest in learning to play. David is personable, easy going and wants his student
to succeed. Took his time to find me (a total beginner in guitar) an excellent lesson book. His instruction motivates me and find his lessons very interesting anf fun! Can't wait to practice and look forward to my next lesson!"
...
San Francisco, CA teacher:
David W.
Review by Maiya
"Maiya had her first lesson today. Things apparently went well, based on Maiya's comments. I asked her how many stars out of five I should give Chris, the
teacher. She taught about it of five seconds, and told me to give 5/5."
...
San Francisco, CA teacher:
Cristopher H.
Review by Michael
"Mark was an excellent teacher, made me very comfortable. We talk about music and set some goal,he keeps a chart to know what his teaching each student and
he write it all out on paper and he writes that you can understand his writing .so very happy. Mike"
...
San Francisco, CA teacher:
Mark B.
Review by Siegfried Bilstein
"Mike is smart, friendly, and will push you. He's full of great advice and will cater to your skill level, fill gaps where they are needed and help you gro
w more confident as a guitarist, musician, and performer. I really enjoyed working with him and he's a truly great instructor.
"
"
...
San Francisco, CA teacher:
Michael F.
Review by Alka
"Highly recommend Judy!
Our daughters have been taking private guitar lessons with Judy for the past year. They both really enjoy working with Judy and ha
Our daughters have been taking private guitar lessons with Judy for the past year. They both really enjoy working with Judy and ha
ve made great improvements in their skills.
It was really important for us to work towards a goal of having the kids perform at a community function. Judy worked with us to write the music of a traditional Indian song and helped the girls learn the chords and melody to be able to play together skillfully.
Judy has been very flexible with our home lesson timings, working around the kids' school and sports schedules. She knows the bands/artists they like and always brings them music that they would want to learn and play from these artists. She makes learning fun and has a great way of interacting with the kids."
It was really important for us to work towards a goal of having the kids perform at a community function. Judy worked with us to write the music of a traditional Indian song and helped the girls learn the chords and melody to be able to play together skillfully.
Judy has been very flexible with our home lesson timings, working around the kids' school and sports schedules. She knows the bands/artists they like and always brings them music that they would want to learn and play from these artists. She makes learning fun and has a great way of interacting with the kids."
...
San Francisco, CA teacher:
Judy G.
Review by Vishal
"In the words of my 9 year old - "Best music teacher ever!!" Thank you, Judy, for an awesome first lesson and a great first impression on our boy!"
San Francisco, CA teacher:
Judy G.
Review by Owen
"Cristopher was great!
First lesson with my son was a big success.
Looking forward to the next lesson."
First lesson with my son was a big success.
Looking forward to the next lesson."
San Francisco, CA teacher:
Cristopher H.
Review by Brian
"Very solid and practical at teaching what you need to learn to understand the song or songs you want to play."
San Francisco, CA teacher:
Aidan C.
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With so much music in the world to play, how do you figure out how to practice guitar? Guitar teacher Jack C. breaks it down to the basics... One of the most common questions I'm asked by students, whether they are total beginners, or seasoned veterans who have been playing for more than ten years, is: "How exactly should I practice guitar in order to get the most benefit from my time?" As my explanation, I always like to break down guitar knowledge in three basic categories. 1. Technique … Read More