Mandolin Lessons in Caseyville. Amazing Teachers.

basic mandolin technique; Bluegrass, Country, world music repertoire, rhythm training

Experienced in teaching mandolin for over 5 years. Experience in teaching other stringed instruments (guitar, bass, ukulele) for over 30 years.

I teach beginner and intermediate mandolin, focussing on the basics of stringed instrument skills. We will spend some time reading basic melodies, learning the fretboard, and learning strumming styles and techniques. I have played mandolin for years and for several professional musicals.

In teaching lessons, it is my great pleasure to share with students of all ages and skill levels the knowledge that I've gained over 27 years of playing. I firmly believe that anyone can learn anything at any time, given the proper tools!

In our first lesson, we will determine your musical goals and create a realistic path to achieving them. It's my job to help you along this path while keeping things fun.

To maintain focus and week-to-week continuity, I always provide lesson notes to take home. I can also provide recordings of lessons and transcriptions of pieces, if desired.

**Studio Equipment**
violins, viola, mandolin, guitar, bass, piano, recording equipment

A two-time Acoustic Music Seminar participant and a graduate of the Berklee College of Music, mandolinist Jake plays and writes music that is galvanized by roots music from around the globe. Music has taken him all over the country, yet he was introduced to acoustic music in his hometown, the greatest bluegrass city of all time: Akron, Ohio. Jake joined his uncle’s bluegrass band (The Blue Ribbon Bluegrass Band) playing mandolin and spent the next two years refining his craft. In his years with Blue Ribbon Bluegrass Band, Jake recorded two CDs and played countless gigs all over the northeastern United States. After being urged by his friends and family, Jake applied to the Berklee College of Music, where he graduated in 2017 with a degree in Mandolin performance and American Roots Music, mentored by greats such as Joe Walsh, Maeve Gilchrist, David Wallace, and Matt Glaser. He now tours nationally with the band The Page Turners.

I love to teach and hope to make you a more conscious

You can choose to learn by ear, notation, tab, or a combination of these. We will play standard tunes, and any of your favorites from Bill Monroe to Chris Thiles, and beyond. A mandolin is also great for strumming and singing.