Atlanta, GA Music Theory Lessons

for projection of materials
Record to Cassette Tape, and Computer

*** Travel Equipment ***
N/A

*** Specialties ***
Jazz, Pop

*** Lesson Details ***
What a student may expect from this teacher:
Within 3-6 months students shall a have a good grasp on the foundation of their instrument/ craft; have a controlled sound; be playing/ singing what he/she hears; stronger, more defined tone; be able to play through/ sing through at least one song; have expanded range; confidence; and of course tackling personal goals set within the lessons.

My Goal is to facilitate bringing out what greatness already lies within and to assist in that growth, as well as teaching new information and the how to apply. I am not very strict on notation, as far as reading music (Piano and Voice). Lessons with me will more consist of the meatier portion of music how to use the instrument, developing the sound, understanding chord structures, playing/ singing what you hear, techniques and how to put it all together musically. However I will go through musical notation and reading chords, but it will not be a focus. (If you desire to play/ sing classically, I may not be the best teacher for you.)

For MUSIC PRODUCTION: Producing musical tracks and recording artist is the root and the focus. The curriculum is sculpted from LOGIC PRO X, REASON and PRO TOOLS software (subject to change). Students learn how to create what he/she hears and how to format it all together; Students learn how to track and record/ mix in the most professionally used software; Mixing and Mastering shall be touched upon as well.

When it comes to teaching and application of knowledge for each student I am serious about his or her growth; I don't want anyone wasting their money or time, so practice and dedication is necessary.

*** Studio Equipment ***
88 Length Keyboard with hundreds of sounds
Studio Mics
Teaching white board
Music Software

*** Specialties ***
Pop/Rock, R&B/ Soul, Christian, Hip-Hop, Country, Folk; By Ear& Reading
Pro-Tools, Garage Band, Reason, Logic Pro X

e always enjoyed discussing music and educating others on its many aspects. As such I began teaching during summers home from Berklee and found that it was something I had a great deal of talent for. Now, with seven years of teaching experience behind me, I look forward to bringing my skills and insights to students of all ages and bring not only ability on the guitar but a greater love of music to a fresh crop of open minds!!

In addition to guitar, I am also qualified to teach voice, public speaking, dramatic acting, and all aspects of music theory, the latter of which I incorporate into all of my music lessons.

A FEW THINGS TO BE AWARE OF:

1. I am able to take lessons in your home or over Skype. I am no longer accepting lessons in my home.

2. Please only pick one teacher. I don't know why people do this but on more than one occasion I've had students come to me and say "I'm doing lessons with you and this other guy. I figure I can learn different things from both of you." You only need one teacher- if that's not me, I understand.

3. I will NOT remove you as a client on Takelessons so that I can take money under the table from you directly. Sometimes clients will say "the lessons on Takelessons are expensive- is there any way I can just pay you directly?" No, you may not. The amount you are paying is MY specified fee from which Takelessons takes a commission so paying me directly would not save you money. Furthermore, I have a binding agreement with Takelessons not to do this. If you press me on this matter I will discontinue your lessons altogether.

*** Lesson Details ***
Although I follow a specific lesson plan, its important to customize that to each student's skill level and specific needs. Thus, I will spend the first lesson evaluating where the student is in terms of overall musical awareness, existing skill on the instrument, and long term interest.

By the end of the first month, my beginning students will be able to perform basic chromatic and major scales, name the notes on the instrument, and have command of a few basic chords. With these core concepts and regular, committed practice, they will be able to learn and perform songs in a wide variety of styles after 3 to 6 months have passed.

My more advanced students will have a lesson plan customized to their specific goals and desires. In 3 to 6 months with such a student I will have them well on the path to accomplishing their long term goals, whether those be playing, composition, harmonic awareness, understanding of theory, or all of the above.

*** Studio Equipment ***
dedicated music room; cables/amps; electric & acoustic guitars; keyboard

*** Travel Equipment ***
Electric or acoustic guitar as needed.

*** Specialties ***
Having graduated from the Berklee College of Music, I follow their approach in educating the student. In this regard I teach music theory along with the physical act of playing the guitar, which serves to not only enrich the experience for the student but demonstrate how what they are learning is applied to music on the whole.

I am fluent in many genres and specialize in rock, jazz, the blues, and various fusion genres. Because music functions off of the same principles regardless of genre, I can take whatever style the student might best appreciate and structure my lesson plan around it.

While at Georgia State, I had the good fortune to observe in action some of the most phenomenal musicians in Atlanta: Dwight Coleman, Dr. Peter Marshall, and Maestro Michael Palmer. Since that time, I’ve studied voice privately with bass Jason Hardy and soprano Sharon Stephenson, and I’ve fine-tuned, pun intended, both my vocal and pianistic musicianship by singing in choirs led by phenomenal directors like Dr. Eric Nelson, Walter Huff, and Dr. Dale Adelmann.

And not being a stranger to accomplishments in teaching (voice and piano), in 2013 I was recognized as a Top Teacher for student retention, communication with parents and staff, general positive feedback, and overall professionalism. In addition, both my voice and piano students regularly receive superior ratings at the local National Federation of Music Clubs festivals, pass ABRSM theory and piano exams, earn leading roles in school productions, and place in local talent shows.

P.S. For potential voice students, how many of you want to be a famous opera singer? My guess is, not many of you (to say the least :) However, what if I say, who would like to pretend they’re a famous bullfighter, a bird catcher (who likes to dress like a bird), an Ancient Egyptian, or a King or Queen while singing awesome music? Hopefully, more of you would try it. That’s why I love opera and classical singing. So I encourage you to watch, not just listen to, classical singing. You may be surprised at how cool it can be.

ic in addition to the mechanics of playing a string instrument. My ultimate goal is to help each student become their own teacher!

***Special Needs***
I am more than happy to explore ways in which students with special needs can engage music through listening, reading, writing, singing and even playing an instrument...let's talk!!

tronic keyboard, in the lessons.
Bass Guitar: I teach rock, pop, funk, and country music on bass.
Banjo: I teach bluegrass, country, and some blues and rock music. I can also teach a bit of old-timey frailing/clawhammer style.
English and Reading: I am highly qualified, to tutor/teach English (spoken, written, and reading comprehension) to both native English speakers and to those learning it as a second language.
*** I am particularly good at working with children who have a.d.h.d. and other learning disabilities!

how to use all of this to make meaningful music.

ion. As an instructor, I endeavor to make guitar lessons fun, practical and productive!!! Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, advanced or even at the professional level, I can help you advance your playing skills.

DeKalb Counties. I have adjudicated for the Georgia Music Educators Association as well as taught sectionals and marching band camps for area schools.

ight years.

My professional affiliations have included membership in the National Association of Music Educators, board member with Atlanta based TORCH (Together Orchestras Revitalize Community Harmony), board member and music director with Florida based For-Kids-Only and music director with Atlanta based Yes You Can! Foundation. All three organizations work through music to benefit a wide range of needs for children and communities.

I have worked extensively as a pianist, multi- keyboardist, vocalist, soloist, group performer, accompanist, teacher, music director, conductor and arranger as well as being an international recording artist.

THE ACCOMPANIST ~~~
To be an accompanist is an art form that requires the ability to cross effortlessly between multiple styles. It also requires that the lead vocal or instrument is supported to the fullest degree that allows total freedom of expression while knowing each moment of a performance can be undertaken with complete confidence.
This is the art form that I have mastered and give total attention to detail in each performance.

THE TEACHER ~~~
Teaching is an area that I am passionate about. Working with young aspiring musicians as well as seasoned professionals and amateurs of all ages, I found many people lacking a well rounded understanding of theory and how music works in general. This prompted me to begin teaching many years ago. When I studied with William Walton who was a Dennis Sandole disciple, I was given full permission to teach the same method and expand upon it as it naturally evolved. My varied experience gives my a unique perspective on working with people who are truly interested in expanding their talents and musical understanding.

Highlights of my career include performances as conductor and pianist for the one-and-only Mickey Rooney and pianist for a series of teaching clinics with the most recorded guitarist in the world, Tommy Tedesco.

I have also appeared for or performed with: actress & singer - Susan Anton, R&B artist - Archie Bell, Mr. QVC - Bob Bowersox, jazz & classical guitarist - Charlie Byrd, jazz guitarist - Jerry Byrd, Oregon, Rochester and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra principal bassist - Colin Corner, the one-and-only - Rodney Dangerfield, NBC Today Show Superstar Vocal Winner - Dan Gardner, legendary big band vocalist - Connie Haynes, guitarist - Jef Lee Johnson, guitar superstar - Earl Klugh, R&B superstars - Blue Magic, sports legends - Mike Schmidt & Fran Tarkenton, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members - The Shirelles, Broadway sensation Susan Stroman, legendary trumpeter & saxophonist - Glenn Zottola, governors, mayors, major political figures and prominent diplomats.