Woodburn, OR Guitar Lessons

Introducing electric guitar: making chords, strumming and palm muting techniques and finger strengthening for the young rocker.

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.

Beginning guitar lessons. Correct play position, picking, strumming, chords, musicianship, performing.

Time is spent on exercises, learning songs, and personal projects

Experienced guitar teacher available for eager beginning students of all ages! I structure my lessons so students learn what they want to learn, while also building a strong foundation of musical skills. I taught myself to play guitar in high school, so just know the basics. I played keyboards, my main instrument, in several rock bands, so know some blues and rock riffs that could transfer well to guitar. I enjoy helping people to find the fun in playing guitar!

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!

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 believe that music is a fundamental part of human expression created by God, and my heart’s desire is to use music to express a meaningful and edifying message in an effective, beautiful and creative way to God and to others. My intention with my students is to instill the same principles and desires in them through musical instruction and coaching, technical training, aural skills, exploration of quality musical literature, and performance opportunities.