Daytona Beach, FL Guitar Lessons

e but at the same time I am asking the students to give their best effort. Setting frequent goals in form of group classes and recitals keeps us in full sail and teach us to enjoy the act of playing both alone and in front of friendly audience.
I teach both classical and Suzuki methods. I like to keep my students musically well fed and encourage exploring music reading and music theory next to practical skills. I stir my students toward high standard personal level in their studies, an ingredient from Finnish cultural climate.

*** Specialties ***
Suzuki method and classical method, fiddling, beginning jazz, improvising

nd Guitar (acoustic and electric). I teach nearly all styles of music, including classical, jazz, funk, and rock. I have graduated from Stetson University with degrees in Digital Arts, Music, and Business.

I am also an accomplished computer musician and sound engineer. I am fluent in a range of professional software programs which includes Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton Live, Amadeus Pro, Cubase, and MaxMSP. I have done sound for large national touring acts such as Molly Hatchet, Blackfoot, and Matt Costa.

I feel that nothing is impossible. Great results aren't given, they are earned, and I know how to set goals to reach those results. This is a virtue I like to share with students. My dedication to music has helped me accomplish much at a young age.

*** Lesson Details ***
All lessons accommodate the unique needs of the student. My lessons don't merely teach you musical theories: I will teach you how to express yourself through your instrument as you learn those theories. You will gain technical knowledge and the tools to experience your musical potential. Lessons with me are the perfect extra-curricular activity for your child, or a great experience for you. A large part of my curriculum is more than learning how to play a few cover songs. The lessons are also about becoming more confident with yourself as a person and developing character along the way. You will learn about the discipline, patience, and dedication that it takes to stand out among professionals, not just as a musician, but as a strong individual. Music is a part of that. What you play becomes an extension of yourself. Young or old, everyone has something to share with the world through music.

In a given lesson, you can expect half of it to be about the basics of your instrument and the literature for reading music. The other half is about how you can apply these principles in a unique way that relates to yourself. However, the lesson is all about the student. If the student wants to learn in different ways that is never a problem. All I ask is that you're eager to learn! Everybody has different musical tastes and different learning styles. That is what makes every musician unique and every lesson exciting.

I enjoy teaching people of all ages 5 and up and have experience teaching groups or individuals. From beginner or experienced, hobbyist or professional, every person has a place in the wonderful world of music!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Separate studio: computer, recording gear, mics, amps, keyboard, guitars, bass, drum kit

*** Travel Equipment ***
When traveling to their house I ask students to provide their necessary performance materials, i.e. drumset, guitar and amp, essential books, etc. I always provide all necessary teaching equipment, i.e. computer, additional guitars.

*** Specialties ***
Drums- Funk, Jazz, Classic Rock, Metal, Punk, Blues, Hip-Hop
Guitar/Bass- Funk, Blues, Metal, Rock, Hip-Hop
Music Recording/Songwriting- Electronic Music/electro-acoustic, Rock, Funk

Rock, Jazz and Folk Music of your choice. Today's modern new guitars are easy to play and you will enjoy learning Guitar right away. That is how it should be.
When you study there is a basic understanding of Guitar to be learned that allows an ease of use for anyone for years to come. This will help you reach your goal and improve each week. My students learn to practice in a way that feels comfortable and makes sense. This takes all the stress out of learning and gives everyone something to smile about and look forward to each week.

The good feeling of playing along with friends and taking a solo is within every students grasp. I will show you the way there. And with a solid and straightforward approach to the theory as it applies directly to the guitar you will feel confident and unafraid of any music endeavor. We'll cover harmony and fingerboard theory and give you a road map of the guitar neck that makes it a pleasure to play. You learn the basics and much more than you thought possible retaining 90 percent of what you learn!

Having been a student myself I was deeply involved in music since age 12 and played in bands and duos for over 15 years . I can help you to be a well rounded player and performer with a smile, a laugh and a joy for music whether your in a band or a budding solo artist.

*** Lesson Details ***
Most students want to play the Guitar to play their favorite songs and I'm the same way. Music is something we carry with us in our hearts and minds. Students will learn what they wish to learn and work at a pace that is comfortable to them. Whether you are a student, “weekend warrior” or a parent whose child has expressed an interest in Guitar anyone can learn all there is to know about Harmony and Theory for the Guitar and how to play their favorite songs.

We cover theory in an easy and straightforward no nonsense way in the first half of each lesson and then apply it to the song you wish to learn. This creates an atmosphere where you understand and feel at home with the Guitar. You get an understanding right away and because it is immediately fun it allows you to feel comfortable at any level. Music is fun, and songs are the creative expression of what we feel. Combining theory and the freedom to play and sing songs allows us to express ourselves through music. 
After 6 months students will have a solid foundation in theory, and a road map of the guitar fretboard enabling them to advance to an intermediate level if they are ready to do so. Students will know enough that music as it relates to the Guitar, which is the world’s most popular instrument in contemporary music, is not a mystery but is a welcome friend. And they will be able to play songs by popular artists and advance at a pace that is satisfying and enjoyable.
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Student Comments:
What Students Are Saying About ~ James Teaching Style

“James’ patience, knowledge and under-standing made learning guitar fun. I like the lessons. He cares.”
--Rebecca L., guitar
student, Venice Beach, CA 2003

“James taught me to
play pop and rock, and
introduced me to
fingerstyle guitar. I love it!”
--Joseph E., guitar student, Vancouver, BC 2006

“I studied guitar privately with James in 2010. His style of teaching helped me to get
past my blocks. He opened new doors for me. Thanks!”
--Daniel S., guitar
student, Los Angeles, CA 2010
""James is a trustworthy man, great with answering back right away. Always ready to help with new members. I would definitely recommend him." ~ PJ Stover of PJ Stover Voices; Independent Film & Recording voice-over artist
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What James spouse says about working on songwriting with him:

"James is my husband for over 10 years now. Over the years, I have seen James give guidance and counsel to many hopeful musicians of all ages, and inspire others about how music influences and benefits our lives. I would highly recommend James to anyone who wants to learn guitar, voice, music theory, and acting. James is a great talent, and study with him would benefit anyone with the sincere desire to grow as an artist. When we married, I had fallen in love with James’ conversational style, and his vast knowledge of music. When I heard him play guitar, I knew that I wanted to write songs with him, and we released our first album, in 2012 on iTunes."

Regards,
Keri W.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Ovation Glen Campbell Artist Acoustic Electric Guitar, Ovation Pacemaker 12 string Guitar, Ibanez PF 5 Acoustic Electric Guitar, Fender Telecaster 6 string Electric Guitar. Korg Mini Pandora III Amplifier/Studio EFX, Toshiba Laptop Satelite Pro with PreSonus Studio One Artist Software, PreSonusUSB Audiobox, HD7 Studio Monitor Headphones, M7 Condenser Mic, PreSonus Studio Producer software with SoundCloud integration, iBook G4 with Garageband 3 and iLife Studio. Godin Summit CT Electric Guitar is the guitar I now endorse exclusively !

*** Travel Equipment ***
Lesson Plans, Godin Summit CT Guitar, Fender and Ovation Guitars, Tuner, Android Smartphone and apps, iPads, Korg Mini Pandora Amp, Toshiba Satelite Pro Laptop. Android LG Smartphone with Tuners, Voice Recorder, and Metronome and Chord Reference Guide, and Guitar Tuner, iPod Touch Pro Studio.

*** Specialties ***
Songs in the following styles: Pop, Rock and Modern Country Music. Also Composition Analysis while learning the song.

ly intermediate.To this day, Aldo continues to perform locally around San Diego in several bands as well as he runs his own independent record label to help promote other local musicians. He has never stopped teaching throughout the years as it is has been and always will be a true passion for him. Aldo is completely immersed in music on a daily basis by being an active musician, teacher, mentor, and overall lover of music. Aldo's knowledge of guitar touches every genre and style imaginable, from Bach to rock, jazz, metal, you name it! His goal is make you succeed and excel at your instrument.In his spare time, Aldo enjoys skateboarding. 

*** Lesson Details ***
My lesson plan is very simple. First of all, it revolves all around you and what you want to do with guitar. It doesn't matter if you want to master your skills before you hit the recording studio, prepare for the stage, learn the song you have always wanted to play, or just learn the instrument because it has always been your dream. I can help you. My approach is very relaxed and encouraging and I will always provide feedback to make sure you are going to hit your goals.After determining your goals, I will cater your lessons to help you reach them. Students who would like to read music will go through method books and supplemental material. Those who would like to start playing right away will start off with chords, understanding charts, counting rhythm, learning tablature, and reading simple sheet music. Intermediate to advance students can expect to focus on areas where they need help. New techniques can introduced or improved such as sweep arpeggios, tapping, speed picking, and performance tips.For Classical Guitar, I can help students from a beginning level to an early intermediate level. I will help them work on their sight reading and technique along the way. My classical guitar lessons will have a strong emphasis on the performance of the pieces assigned. 

*** Studio Equipment ***
Aldo's studio is fully equipped with practice and performance amplifiers. A spare electric guitar is available for students if they happen to forget theirs. Recording equipment, drums, bass guitar, and bass amp is also available for accompaniment. Repair and maintenance tools are also available for quick adjustments or restringing a guitar.

*** Specialties ***
rock, pop, blues, metal, classical, speed picking, finger picking

setting, hospice, infants, older adults, mental health, special needs, autism, TBI, stroke, and more.

fter getting into to teaching a while back, I realized that I really enjoy it! It is highly rewarding, and a great chance to share the joy of music with others. I currently teach at three different locations for two different businesses in NJ, and I've set up my profile on Take Lessons so that I can continue expanding my student base, which consists of students ranging from 8-70 years of age.

I am always studying music, even to this day, and constantly trying to understand new styles that are outside of my wheelhouse. My approach to teaching is simple: connect with the student, help find common ground in musical tastes and set up an engaging foundation with which the student can reach their goals while having fun in the process!