Santee, CA Guitar Lessons

40 students per week. I decided to move forward and take my musical experience with me to San Diego, where I currently teach, write, record, and perform my music with others who have similar goals and aspirations. I love playing in as many bands as possible. The main one I play in is called Quel Bordel. Some of the bands I've played in have given me the opportunity to perform with local and big named artists such as D.J. Artistic, Gary Wilson of Stones Throw Records, The Aristocrats, Terry Bozzio, Alan Holdsworth, and Tony Levin. As a full time musician and performer, I'm typically out gigging anywhere from 2-5 a week. As a teacher, I'm here to help you with where you want to be with guitar. Whether it's rock, pop, funk, hip hop, reggae, jazz, blues, indie, folk, and country, I can help you with the technical and theoretical side of things.

*** Lesson Details ***
My goal- To get you to become better than me. I find myself as an easy going teacher, and can provide that push when I see students getting more engaged in their lessons. I typically teach out of two main books, and it's optional for students to have their own copy of my recommended method books. I emphasize heavy chord vocabulary and steady rhythm. I believe that in order to be a good lead player, you would have to be a great rhythm player. As we develop technique, you can expect me to incorporate theory as to maintain an even share of the HOW's and WHY's. Moreover, expect to DO something with our lessons. Repetition is the mother of learning, and sometimes it comes down to the idea of 'monkey see, monkey do' before we can have in depth conversations about the application of your lessons in real situations. To me, music is very creative. So I'm a big believer on improvisation with both chords and scales. I believe in practical application when learning the songs you want to learn. So every student will have a unique way of learning the fundamentals only necessary to their personal goals.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Two small practice amps, cables, method books (personal copies), extra picks, extra guitar, music stand, blank sheet music/tabs for notes, extra strings, music stand, metronome, tuner

*** Travel Equipment ***
Music stand, extra guitar (if needed), blank staff/tab paper, tuner, metronome, battery powered amp, cables, extra strings (if needed), picks

*** Specialties ***
I primarily use Hal Leonard method books for beginners when it comes to reading and basic technique. For those who want to learn at the intermediate/advance level, I use the book called Jazz and Pop Guitar (chords and progressions) and Scales and Modes in the Beginning which can cover all aspects of chord theory and improvisation. I model my curriculum off of my prior lesson plans from my teachers ( based off of Berklee and GIT) My genres specialize in rock, funk, jazz, indie rock, folk, country, blues, pop

A typical lesson begins with a warm up and review of last weeks' lesson, and then moves to a new concept or technique. Once this new idea is understood, we give it a practical application by using it a song the student is familiar with. We finish up by setting some homework and answering any questions the student my have.

My lessons are structured and goal orientated (I want my students playing songs they love as soon as possible to keep the inspiration and excitement going!) but I adapt each lesson plan to suit the student, accommodating different musical tastes and learning styles. Most important I keep the lessons fun and engaging - it's the best way to learn!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Fulling equipped, professional teaching studio.
Guitars, drums, amps, PAs, Pianos, Mandolins and much more!

*** Specialties ***
Very versatile both in preferred styles and my ability to adapt to students requests. Can cover anything from jazz to metal, or pop to blues, on guitar, bass or drums.

scount -
$5 off all lessons
Early Bird (schedule lessons to finish by 3:30pm Pacific) -
$5 off all lessons
Combine discounts for $10 off any lesson!
Use the ask question feature and mention the discount :)

My mission is to provide a positive musical experience for all students. For some this includes rigorous preparation for an audition of some kind, for others it may be an introduction to music fundamentals to foster better listening skills and greater artistic appreciation. All students will be challenged to improve their listening, timing, and technique. All students will learn to play songs that they love.

Recommendations for best results: make a three-month commitment to weekly lessons, and work up to 30 minutes of daily practice. This formula guarantees results. Bring your instrument, music books, and a binder with sheet protectors ☺

*Scheduling policy: to avoid being charged for a lesson - One week notice is required to cancel, skip, or "roll over" a lesson. 24 hours notice to reschedule (based on availability).

To continue weekly lessons, students must maintain at least 90% attendance or the time slot may be forfeited.

Good Luck!

Jordan was born and raised in the El Centro, California where he began playing the alto sax in the elementary band program. At the age of 12, he began his study of guitar and drums, performing in several rock and ska bands around his home town and San Diego. At age 14, is where he found his love for brass instruments when he took up the trombone. While in high school he became a featured soloist with the Imperial Valley College Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of the legendary trumpeter Jimmy Cannon. It was this that lead Jordan to accept the Constance Weldon Music Scholarship to attend the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL.

While performing in South Florida Jordan appeared with major acts including 10,000 Maniacs, and appeared on the Spanish television show "Calle Ocho." He also gained invaluable experience teaching in Miami public schools. His first teaching assignment was at Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School where he directed 3 beginning bands, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, and their highly decorated Jazz Band. Later Jordan moved into the elementary setting, teaching vocal and instrumental music for grades K-5 at Cypress Elementary.

In 2007, Jordan returned to California to pursue a music career in San Diego. He can be seen performing all over San Diego, Orange, and LA Counties in styles ranging from rock, jazz, funk, blues, hip-hop, Latin, and more. He performs primarily on trombone, piano, and guitar, but is known to pick up percussion, harmonica, and other wind instruments as well. Jordan, along with the rest of the aggressively funky cover band SuperMagnetic, were the grand prize winner of the 2010 Viejas Ultimate Music Challenge 4. In 2011, Tori Roze & The Hot Mess were nominated for a San Diego Music Award in the category of "Best Blues Artist" after the release of their first album "From The Hip." They released their second album "Turbulence" last December, and are heard regularly on local San Diego radio. This album has also been nominated for Best Pop album for the 2013 San Diego Music Awards. In 2013, Jordan completed his Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies from San Diego State University.

On stage, Jordan is a talented and versatile performer. He is known for his trombone sound and improvisational ability, as well as his positive relationship with his fellow musicians. In lessons, Jordan is energetic and creative.

*** Lesson Details ***
I enjoy teaching kids and adults of all ages. When you arrive for our first lesson, we'll start by getting to know your musical tastes and aspirations. Then we make a plan. Then we play!

Everybody's path is different, but we must start with a strong foundation in the fundamentals. After we start to establish some technique on your instrument we will explore music that suits you from a practical stand point in your development, and very importantly, stylistically. Together we will plan a curriculum that keeps you motivated toward your goals and that fits your life style.

You can expect a laid back, yet focused environment. Most of all, you can look forward to progress! Hope to see you soon.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room with large wall mirror, good lighting, with full size keyboard, weighted

*** Travel Equipment ***
I expect students to provide an instrument for themselves. I also require a student to come prepared with sheet music, pencils, a binder with sheet protectors, and any books they are interested in.

*** Specialties ***
I have an extensive background in jazz bands, salsa bands, classical wind ensembles, and improvisation. I also currently perform in both original and cover bands on trombone, keyboard and guitar, in a range of styles including rock, reggae, Latin, and funk. I teach beginning and intermediate piano, guitar, and woodwind instruments, as well as advanced brass.

PLEASE READ:
***Scheduling Policy***
-To avoid being charged - One week notice for cancellations. 24 hours notice for reschedule (based on availability).

.

I have three educations:
1) PhD in Musicology,
2) Master in Music Education and
3) Bachelor in Electrical Engineering.

I have about 20 years teaching experience and I am a California Certified Music Teacher

I speak english, german, swedish and farsi and love to work with people of all ages.

I teach:
1) Guitar
2) Piano/Keyboard
3) Drums
4) Singing
5) Bass Guitar
6) Music Theory
7) Violoncello

Welcome to My Lessons

*** Specialties ***
Classical, Pop, Rock

nstitute of Technology co founder Joe Diorio) pro touring guitarist Christopher Eck of the band Masterguru, former students of guitar virtuosos Greg Howe and Joe Stump and many other serious amateur and professional musicians.

*** Lesson Details ***
Heavily influenced by legendary virtuoso guitarists Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Yngwie Malmsteen, Nikola's goal as a teacher is to convey his knowledge and expertise of the guitar on to others while emphasizing his own style, which exemplifies speed, intensity and finesse. While his exploits in rock guitar gymnastics continue to attract and inspire new players, Nik's approach to teaching is simplistic, yet highly effective and suitable for young beginners and adults of all ages.

Nikola M's guitar lessons are professional, insightful, progressive and cover a wide and exciting spectrum including:

The Rudiments of Music

* Chords
* Rhythm studies
* Scales
* Warm up stretches
* Sight reading for beginners
* Theory
* Modes

Technique and Repertoire

* Lead improvisation
* Ear training
* Dynamics

Master Class

* Sweep picking
* Speed picking
* Arpeggios and pentatonics
* Two-hand tapping
* Chicken picking
* Blues improvisation

*** Travel Equipment ***
Amplifier (if needed)

*** Specialties ***
Heavily influenced by legendary virtuoso guitarists Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Yngwie Malmsteen, my goal as a teacher is to convey my knowledge and expertise of the guitar on to others while emphasizing my own style, which exemplifies speed, intensity and finesse. In addition to teaching various genres like pop, jazz, country and folk, I specialize in instructing virtuoso rock and progressive metal guitar techniques.

ly a few years of
practice, I started playing professionally, in bands and solo guitar.
Live playing experience, I believe, is the most important experience
that any musician can have, in that, the most important part of music
is how it sounds, and playing in front of people is the quickest way
to learn how to play effectively. And this is what I teach; how to
be a musician, not just a technician.

*** Lesson Details ***
A student can expect a curriculum tailor-made to their needs and personality. Every person learns differently and this is an important distinction in my teaching style. Some students need a strong hand to keep them working, others need to find many different ways to the same conclusion to keep them focused, while still others need a laid-back friend in order to accept knowledge.

I stress rhythmic literacy, for, as my jazz teacher always said, "rhythm is king." If composition is important to you, then we'll focus on music theory, but if you're just wanting to learn how to play some fun rock tunes with your friends on the weekends, we can do that as well. As I stated before, we'll get you playing in front of people in no time.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide an amplifier, a loner guitar (if needed), staff and/or tablature paper, metronome, pens and paper for the lessons.

*** Specialties ***
Music theory and composition, guitar, bass, lute, beginner to intermediate piano
Classical, shred, blues, and rock guitar; renaissance lute; blues, rock and slap bass; composition of many styles; world music.

es. In 1982, I became interested in classic rock and founded my band, The Mar Dels. During my time with the band, I’ve learned and performed many classic rock hits. One of the best-known dance/party bands in San Diego, the Mar Dels continue to play at private and public events locally, nationally, and globally.

*** Lesson Details ***
I give my guitar students a solid background in right and left hand technique. This includes finger picking technique for the right hand as well as flat picking. It’s important for students develop a correct left hand position, if they wish to continue to play for many years without injury to the left hand. It’s also very important to young students who may wish to move into classical music. Most classical guitar music can’t be played well with a standard rock left hand technique, but all rock music can be played very well with a good classical left hand technique. 

Most of the studies I use with my students are songs, scales and arpeggios from my personal library, so it won’t be necessary for my students to buy any books right away. However, if students want some additional materials to review, I can suggest some titles.

I emphasize the quality of sound that the student produces with the instrument. Many musicians feel that playing a piece of music is like running a 100-yard dash. I prefer that my students play at a comfortable tempo and create beautiful sounds, rather than rushing through a song simply to show an ability to play fast. I feel that it’s very important to practice any new piece or exercise at a slow tempo till it can be played well with relaxed hands. When the tempo is gradually increased, one acquires beauty with speed.

Within the first three months, the average student should be able to play some open position chords, bar chords, and arpeggios, and be able to improvise over a chord progression using four or more notes from at least one pentatonic scale. I like my students to learn at least one guitar solo (a piece that features guitar either solo or with accompaniment) within six months that they could play for their friends or parents. If the student’s goal is to use the guitar to accompany their voice, they can learn to sing and play at the same time. This is a special skill that takes time to master, and is something that I have done for years. I’m happy to share my ideas on how to develop this skill with my students.

Ultimately, the progress of the student depends on their talent level and their desire to acquire skills. If a student is interested in only one style of playing, I am happy to focus on it; however, I have a very broad skill set on the guitar and I like my students to develop as many techniques as possible.

*** Equipment ***
Depending on the student’s interest, I bring either a steel string or a classical guitar, and I prefer that the student also have an appropriate instrument. If it’s an introductory lesson for a beginning student, I can bring an instrument for them to use for the lesson.

*** Specialties ***
Since 1982 I have played guitar in The Mar Dels, a popular dance and party band so I am familiar with most pop, blues & rock styles of playing.

I have always loved the classical guitar and I am especially interested in good technique and tonal quality.

experienced players. Ben also offers Lap Steel, Pedal Steel, and Banjo lessons for beginners.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Breedlove AC25/SR Plus Acoustic Guitar
Gibson Les Paul
Fender Telecaster
Goldtone Dojo (Banjo/Dobro)
Emmons Pedal Steel
Gretsch Lap Steel
VOX AC-30 amp
Fender Bassman amp
Fender GDEC amp

r favorite venues. Many of my students have gone on to sing professionally and I currently teach Artists with ongoing careers.

My motto is learn to sing the "Easy, Natural Way". I teach the very best techniques, so vocalizing is not strained or difficult. My main focus is on teaching good "placement" of the sound, using the best ways to secure breath support and control, as well as good stage presence. Dealing with stage fright is always addressed, whether the singer wants to sing just for themselves, or audition for Musical Theatre productions. Styles range from pop to rock and opera.
I teach students of ALL AGES and work with every style or genre of music. Having spearheaded the Music program at the local YMCA has been a special treat in my teaching career!

*** Studio Equipment ***
I teach using a piano for learning vocal exercises and good techniques. I also have an acoustic Guitar that I use to teach my students how to play and learn good finger picking and strumming techniques. Using a computer is always employed, to pull up songs on YouTube, so students can choose what they would like to work on. Karaoke versions are used as well, for further training purposes.

*** Travel Equipment ***
When I teach at a student's home, I bring my Guitar with me, if they're studying this instrument. It is helpful for a student to have a piano or keyboard for me to teach voice, but I do have a keyboard I can bring if none is available. Having a computer close by is very helpful, to get the most out of the lesson as is possible.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in helping people who have created possible "bad habits" in their singing techniques. "Placement" and breathing, or "support", are of key importance. When good techniques are used, just about anyone can learn to sing beautifully. I also work with all ages, having background with Children, as well as teens, middle age, and elderly vocalists. Singing is universal, so every ethnicity is included in my student roster. If someone wants to learn to play the acoustic Guitar, this is always a plus, to accompany ones-self, or to focus on the instrument on it's own. Singing and playing should be "easy" and this is the approach I take in teaching.

led with one-on-one, ‘old world’ style lessons from flamenco masters gives him a great foundation for teaching.