Damascus, OR Guitar Lessons

For general education in learning to play guitar, we focus on learning chords, strum patterns, simple progressions and then easy songs. Students are encouraged to bring song ideas in - I probably have them already - so we can begin moving in the direction they want, the reason they want to play guitar, and achieve success in playing their favorite songs. Beyond that, it is up to the student how far they wish to go.

All that I request from a student is a desire to learn. I will work with you at your pace to achieve the musical goals you have. Each student begins at a different level.

The first lesson will focus on your musical background. If you are a beginner, that's no problem. I specialize in working with beginning students to teach them all the joy and satisfaction there is in mastering an instrument.

I love to laugh and the lessons are very laid back and fun, but I desire that a student move forward and learn new techniques.

You will be playing simple songs after your first lesson. I'm asked many times by students "how long will it take until I'm good." My answer is: that is in direct proportion to the amount of time you dedicate to practicing. After a month or two, you will know how to read music and have a basic understanding of music theory.

I use various curriculum depending on the student's need. For guitar, Hal Leonard or Mel Bay.

Joel is author of an upcoming book detailing all common, and some uncommon principles of guitar music. Having taught guitar and participated in the music performance industry since the 80's, Joel is well-acquainted with the makeup of the complete guitarist and all steps leading toward fluent musicianship. Joel's teaching style is unique to each student- tailored to the student's own love of music, or toward the intentions of parents, so as to effectively set realistic goals and to reach them.

I have been teaching Guitar since 2012 in a wide variety of settings, styles, and age groups. It is never too early or late to begin leaning guitar!

I tailor my teaching approach for the specific needs and goals of each student, always putting their priorities first. While I am versed in theoretical approaches and using method books like the Hal Leonard series, I am also fluent in working on contemporary music with a focus on ear training and improvisation.

Experienced guitar teacher of 20+ years available for eager students of all experience levels and ages! I structure my lessons so students learn what they want to learn, while also building a strong foundation of guitar skills. I use Hal Leonard books, & Award WInning #1 best program Steve Krenz's Learn & Master Guitar and also have the following tools available to use during lessons. I have a Mesa boogie all tube amp and Line 6 spider modeling amplifier, Cordoba Classical guitar, Ibanez and Epiphone Riviera deluxe electric, Taylor Acoustic, Presonus Recording equipment, sheet music, tab and more. Let's turn the amp to 11 and rock and roll!"

I can teach guitar fundamentals, that most songs only use 3 chords (1-4-5 song progressions the stuff that 85% of all music we listen to is made up of), left hand / right hand coordination, picking techniques, mute, & play notes on the guitar, soloing, strumming patterns, fingerpicking, using a capo, alternate tunings, acoustic blues, ...

I've been teaching guitar for 20 years and my students have gone on to become performers, and composers. Within the first few lessons and as time goes on you'll be able to understand chords, scales and be able to play your favorite tunes. I specialize in alternate tunings,and lead & finger-style in both standard and alternate tunings. I will provide tabs initially until we find where your interests lie. I love working with students of all ages and experience levels and I can't wait to meet you!

My lessons are custom built to fit my students’ learning styles, and help them achieve their unique goals. Lessons will cover chords, songs, scales, technique, theory, and much more. I offer recording services to my students at no cost. Students can learn to write and record their own songs! I also make use of drums and bass to give students experience playing with other instruments. I provide a positive and encouraging environment to help my students achieve their goals, and enjoy playing music.

I like to format my guitar lessons based on what style of music my students would like to play. We could learn how to hold the guitar and use our fingers in the most efficient ways to build and learn chords, we could be tackling tabs and learning about finger picking techniques, or we could focus on songwriting, song structures, chord families, and theory. Whatever fit your style, you'll be able to play your favorite songs after we work hard together!

I've been teaching in the Portland Metro area for over 10 years. I am knowledgable with many styles and very experienced with all skill levels. I have an Associate of Science in Music from North Idaho College, as well as musical instruction from the University of Oregon School of Music and Portland State University.

I've taught through Ethos Music Center, Youth Music Project, Chordination, as well as maintain my own studio.

My main objective is to find an angle that will help the student cultivate a love for playing the guitar. I incorporate classical notation as well as reading tablature, playing and understand scales, and helping you execute the style and songs that most interest YOU.

We will also be covering, but not limited to, how to transcribe guitar parts from recorded music, music theory, singing while playing, songwriting and guitar maintenance.

I also regularly perform locally and nationally. Past and present, I play with groups Ages and Ages, Rio Grands, Hockey, ...

I personalize my lessons for each student, focusing on how to help them best reach their goals, whether it's performance, composition, music theory, starting a band, all within the genre/genres they want to learn in. Expect lessons tailored to your specific wants and needs.