Guitar with Mike G.

Passionate abut music from a very young age, I began taking drum lessons when I was nine and quickly became interested in expanding my musical horizons. After High School I attended Musicians Institute in Hollywood, CA. This was an amazing experience for me because it not only improved my musical abilities but also showed me new and effective ways to teach. Since then I have had a chance to implement and hone these teaching techniques through over ten years of teaching private lessons to students of all ages and backgrounds. Over the years I have played guitar, bass, and drums for various bands in styles ranging from jazz and blues to hard core. I currently play with the Bethany Ambassadors, a travelling gospel choir at Bethany University. Having played music of many styles in live situations at fairs, parks, wine festivals, and many other venues, I believe that versatility is integral to a musician's growth and reflect that mentality in my private lessons. *** Lesson Details *** Because I have been on the receiving end of many different teaching styles and personalities, I understand that sometimes something may need to be explained or explored in a number of different ways before it "clicks" with a student. In my private lessons I promote a laid back yet focused atmosphere where the student is comfortable with experimenting; making mistakes and learning from them without embarrassment. When learning to play an instrument, technique is extremely important because it facilitates speed and accuracy later on. My lessons are generally divided between technique exercises and practical applications. During lessons I will write out various exercises and information that the student can take home with them to learn and practice. I also will be using various books and incorporating them into my curriculum. Occasionally I will recommend that a student purchase a book but most of the time I will simply photocopy a page and let the student take it home with them. My lessons are very progress-oriented and the student will always be working towards one of a series of goals; with each goal the student reaches they will gain the confidence and technical ability to pursue the next. *** Studio Equipment *** Drum set and amps *** Specialties *** At Musicians Institute I learned many different stick techniques from world champion rudimental snare drummer Rob Carson. I teach very similarly to the way I was taught at MI.