Music Lessons in Hills, IA. It's your time.

I have helped many french horn students place in All-State ensembles, compete for seating placements, and earn top marks in solo and ensemble competitions.

My approach to teaching the cello incorporates mindfulness, body awareness, and deliberate practice, and I strongly believe in simplifying technique and practice methods, and leading you to your own discoveries rather than just telling you what to do. In order to reach your potential as a cellist, you need to train both the body and the mind. I am a strong believer in mental practice and being able to hear the sound you want before you play - however, this is only half the battle; you also want to set yourself up for success by training your body to feel comfortable and relaxed while still maintaining structure. I have studied with the top cello pedagogues in the world, including Hans Jensen, Richard Aaron, Ralph Kirshbaum, Desmond Hoebig, and Frans Helmerson to name a few. The methods I’ve learned and developed on my own can be taught from the very beginning of a cellist’s journey, and I can’t wait to share them with you!

The main focus of the private lessons is music theory and how it applies to the instrument. All the while trying to remain fun. Therefore, the musical style/genre that the student is seeking is irrelevant. At Dennis O Guitar Instruction the goal is for the student to have an understanding of the music that they seek to learn and become an independent musician.

Gary is a professional touring/recording guitarist,composer
and member of PERE UBU, ROCKET FROM THE TOMBS AND THE LEGENDARY SHACK SHAKERS.
A Graduate of Berkee College of Music, he has over 30 years of experience teaching and performing. He specializes in Contemporary and Classical Guitar. Lessons focus on the application of Music Theory to Guitar to help students acquire strong compositional and songwriting skills, knowledge of chord construction, the ability to play scales proficiently, and gain necessary skills needed for solo improvisation. In addition to a wealth of teaching experience, he has toured extensively throughout North America and Europe and has numerous songwriting credits on international releases.

Became a certified Pro Tools Engineer in 2008 from Promedia Training in Dallas, tx.

I have been playing the guitar for 15 years. As a graduate from Southeastern Louisiana University, I have been teaching guitar and ukulele lessons as well as classes since the spring of 2017. I hold a bachelor's degree in music performance with my primary instrument being the guitar.
I can help you to acquire a solid foundation of music theory knowledge. You can help to better understand music theory concepts if they are paired with guitar techniques to supplement them.
If you are a complete beginner, do not be afraid! I will help you to learn at a pace which is comfortable but still effective for you. These lessons will be focused and designed to fit YOUR needs. Let's learn together :)