Private Acoustic Guitar tutoring lessons McKeesport, PA.

Teaching for over 24 years; owner of my own music store/studio for past 14 years.

Teaching beginner - advanced from age 5 to 70+.

I typically use the 21st Century Guitar method book with audio CD and I supplement the text with write-ins or handouts/worksheets as applied to the student's needs and questions. I try to get students playing chords as soon as possible; usually stating with open position power-chords and one or two finger open position chords.

I do flatpicking and fingerstyle ( with or without picks) and encourage students to try both. I try to get the student to sing and play - don't be bashful...I try to have fun with students.

I will help you learn to create chord progressions and write a chord chart and maybe a melody for your first songwriting experience. Usually we will do this using power -chords for beginners or what ever chords the student can handle.

I can train you how to learn songs by ear from recordings once you have some basic abilities.

Kevin J. has been writing, recording, and playing music for over 25 years. Music is meant to be fun and it is his goal to help others enjoy music. He has been a teacher for 11 years and has composed hundreds of songs. He is passionate about teaching his students the songs they want to learn, no matter the difficulty. He specialized in guitar, drums, and song writing. Kevin has a great way of encouraging others to keep going no matter what challenge is in front of them.

Students can expect to learn at an easy and thorough pace. With my lessons, you can take your time no rush. I will work with every student one on one. Each lesson will be well planned and organized, but also it will be fun. If you don't understand something, I will work so that you do understand it. There is no pressure in learning. You can work at your own pace. Looking forward to working with each and everyone of you.

*Adults*
Whether you are a beginner or have been playing for years my comprehensive lessons will help you to quickly realize your musical goals. I tailor each lesson to fit your individual needs and will get you strumming your favorite songs, reading music, taking soaring solos, or writing your own melodies while simultaneously deepening your understanding of the language of music. At the end of each lesson you’ll receive an MP3 of all the material covered.

*Kids*
I believe in building music fundamentals while fostering a love of playing. My fun, imaginative, and age appropriate classes are just right for any budding musician! Each lesson is customized to get the individual student excited about music, that means playing songs they like and having fun while learning the essential techniques and developing musicality. I have extensive experience working with children 5-16 and adapt my teaching to promote success for each unique student.

*Genres*
Pop, Folk, Rock, Blues, Jazz, ...

I have been teaching all levels and styles of acoustic guitar for over 20 years. Beginners usually start with my instruction book, So You Want to Learn How to Play Guitar? You will start playing songs from your 1st lesson. For students who already play, I do an assessment of your experience and skills and design a plan based on this and the type of music you want to learn. I specialize in Country Acoustic Blues, finger-picking, flat picking, and slide. I love working with students of all ages and experience levels and I can't wait to meet you!

I am currently only accepting students taking lessons every week. I will help you learn how to make beautiful music with your acoustic guitar! I focus on proper technique and will have you playing your first song by the end of your first lesson.

I have been an active performing musician in Pittsburgh for over ten years now. I am extremely versatile and have played in many varying styles of bands. I am not strict on a specific way to learn the different aspects of playing the guitar. There are many ways to approach the proper way to play whatever songs or styles you gravitate towards. I am well versed in blues, rock, metal, jazz, country, and folk styles. I am currently studying music composition at University of Pittsburgh, while at the same time playing in an original Punk/Metal band and the Pitt small Jazz ensemble. Whatever it is you are trying to learn on the guitar I can provide with the proper information and explanations to help you get there.

All ages and abilities welcome! My lessons are tailored to the student's individual goals and learning styles. Though they are grounded practical musicianship, they emphasize creativity and self-expression above all else. My goal is to prepare students to function authentically and efficiently in their own musical lives as well as in musical groups. Alongside instrument instruction, I am more than happy to help you develop skills in songwriting and singing. I am a singer/songwriter down to the core and I want my students to love music as much as I do!

Do you want to learn the guitar and write your own music? Have an experienced teacher show you every step of the process, from learning chords to writing your own lyrics. All ages welcome. Lessons are customized and catered to the needs/goals of each student.

Fun With the Fundamentals