Finchville, KY Guitar Lessons

Students will use standard music notation and guitar tablature while learning familiar songs, proper technique, and music theory.

I have been playing guitar for about 25 years and teaching for about seven years now. I played in a punk/rock band in high school and have since studied classical and jazz guitar. Currently I write and perform songs in a folk/acoustic style.

I studied classical guitar at the University of Central Florida, performing solo and ensemble repertoire. I can teach proper technique with both hands, music notation, tablature, sight reading, harmonic theory, and how to realize "orchestral" compositions.

I can teach shredding lead guitar riffs or strumming rhythm (typically acoustic) guitar. Whatever genre or style you're into, and whatever skill level you find yourself - I can help you play the songs you love.

I teach Acoustic or electric guitar. Specialize in younger players. I believe in fostering a love of the instrument, and teach in a manner that is centered around enjoyment.

I use Mel Bay Guitar method in most cases.

I offer contemporary music instruction for 6 string acoustic and electric guitar, and focus on theory, technique, sight reading and tablature, ear training, and improvisation.

Whether you're just starting out or are trying to get your chops to a professional level, I have a comprehensive guitar method that is customized to the goals, needs, desires and musical tastes of every individual. My approach is centered on the idea that there is more than 1 right way to learn and that it should be fun. After 14 years of teaching, I believe most in finding the musical elements inspire and motivate my students, and building from there. You WILL learn to play the way YOU want!

While taking piano lessons, my students will grow in areas including technique, music theory knowledge, and repertoire.

I have been teaching professionally since 2011. I hold a masters degree from the University of Louisville, and a bachelors degree from Morehead State University, studying jazz guitar at both schools. I have been teaching students from ages 5-60 with varying skill levels. My lessons specialize in learning technique along with the music theory to back it up. I also teach how to read standard music notation, guitar tablature, and also guitar maintenance. My philosophy for teaching is that every one of my students will be able to function effectively in any musical genre that they choose, and be able to understand the theory behind what is being played.

Along the years of playing, on stage and with friends, I've come to the realization that learning guitar is a task that can be done alone, but that, is too much of
a lonely road. No one needs to endure the common pitfalls and inefficiencies of learning by your self. Having someone to guide you through the process and keep you focused is the best way to have your playing become an even more rewarding experience, whether you are trying to learn your favorite song, composition or solo, or whether you are trying to immerse yourself in the language of jazz, blues, rock, acoustic or classical, a guide is key.
My view is that a balance of independence and guidance works best when taking on the task of beginning an instrument or expanding your musical vocabulary. I'll be there as a reference, a facilitator and honest listener.

If you're a complete beginner, an advanced classical player, or anywhere in-between, this is the place for you! My teaching philosophy is simple: each student is unique and each student requires a unique approach.

With experience in a range of teaching methods and schools of guitar playing, I take the time to get to know you, to learn what it is you want to play, to learn your music, and teach it to you in the way you will understand.

​I'm Jay, an award-winning guitarist and teacher with a doctorate in guitar and music theory.

Hello!,

Our lessons will be relaxed and fun. I take pride in tailoring my curriculum to the needs and goals of each individual student- This helps me make sure that you are learning at a pace that feels comfortable for you, yet challenging.

We will work together to develop both your musicianship and creativity. I am a firm believer in music being a healing and mind-opening practice. One of my primary goals while teaching is to give my students an outlet to express themselves in a healthy and meaningful way. Let's get started!

Topics we can focus on together:
- Theory
- Improvisation (rock solos!)
- Strumming/finger-picking patterns
- How to sing and play at the same time
- Songwriting/Recording techniques
- Lyric Writing
- Stage Presence
- Exploring different musical genres