Guitar with Dennis B.

I have been teaching guitar over 30 years in the Washington DC metro area. I work with students 18 years of age and up, but I am especially experienced at teaching adult students regardless of whether they are beginners or have previous guitar experience. I have performed in acoustic Celtic, new age, funk, progressive rock, fusion and contemporary jazz groups and am currently performing regularly as a solo acoustic guitarist. I have composed over 40 works for solo guitar as well as numerous pieces for small jazz bands. I have played on numerous CDs including my most recent solo CD 'DARK MATTER'. I am currently rehearsing with my band 'EDGE THEORY' for recording and performing opportunities as well as for future on-line content. I am also beginning preparations to begin to record my fairly extensive back catalogue of solo guitar music. *** Lesson Details *** I tailor the lesson materials to suit the interest of the student but I am dedicated to teaching students at any level to learn to better understand the fundamentals of the language of music. My teaching focuses on critical fundamentals of guitar technique including chords, scales and rhythm guitar playing as well as the art of improvisation. A significant amount of time in the lessons is spent actually playing with the students so that the technical concepts are put to use in real music situations. To further the student's understanding of music I frequently teach elements of music theory to those who are interested. I am only teaching 45 or 60 minute lessons from now on as I believe that these durations better suit my target age groups. Note, Due to a neurological condition with my right hand index finger I am no longer teaching any finger style guitar. *** Studio Equipment *** I have guitars and amps available for student use although I prefer that the student bring their own instrument. I also have all the needed accessories, cables, stands etc. I am however only teaching on-line lessons at this point. *** Specialties *** Adult students (and older teenagers ) whether beginners or experienced are a particular specialty of mine. Adult learners want to be treated as adults and often times benefit greatly from a more mentor oriented approach to teaching. I like to describe myself as both a teacher and a coach so as to emphasize that the student and I are on the same team sharing the goal of improving their guitar playing and musicianship. We are both on the same path of musical discovery. I am probably just farther along on that path with insights and knowledge that will hopefully help them along their way.