Guitar with Randal K.

Love of music inspired to learn bass and guitar over 15 years ago. When I began teaching my young daughter guitar I realized how much I also love to teach. For the past 3 years I have been blessed to be able to combine these two passions into one. Originally self taught, I have recently studied bass, guitar, and theory at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music. Coming from a self taught background, I fully understand the importance of a solid foundation. In the beginning of my playing, after being uninspired by formal lessons, I chose to branch out on my own. This decision definitely slowed my musical growth. Having to fend for yourself is always more difficult than having a guiding hand helping you along. I enjoy passing on the knowledge it took me years to accumulate. My musical influences range from Rock to Reggae, Blues to Folk. Some of my favorite players include Ben Harper, Jack Johnson, David Gilmour, Bob Marley, Family Man, Glen Phillips, and Bradley Nowell. Although the bass guitar was my first instrument, and learning reggae bass is the reason I began, the acoustic guitar is my instrument of choice. I am constantly amazed at the musical range it can provide. From beautiful finger picked melodies, to it's raw percussive qualities. However, I find equal enjoyment sharing my love of both instruments. *** Lesson Details *** My mission is to provide the foundation, through a relaxed and patient approach, for each individual student to reach their own maximum potential. We will cover basic techniques and theory, but we will learn how these are relative to actually playing music that the student is interested in. Let's face it, students want to play music. They are not taking lessons to learn what a pentatonic scale is, even though they will probably use it to play their favorite solo. Many beginners stop playing because they get caught up in the journey, and lose focus on the destination. If these techniques and exercises are shown to be relative to actually playing music, most students can't stop practicing, instead of viewing practice as work, or boring. Each students' lesson is designed specifically for the individual. Handouts will be provided to offer support and reference, but the students desire and willingness to practice on their own will dictate how fast we move along. The ultimate goal for me is to provide a relaxed atmosphere where students are having fun doing what they love. There will be plenty of time to learn complex chord shapes and theories. I simply want to create players who once they have started, will never stop playing. *** Studio Equipment *** I am available for lessons given in your home or mine. I provide small recording equipment, and drum machine. Each student will be able to record a cd of their playing to help in the learning process. *** Travel Equipment *** Recording equipment, drum machine, amps, and lesson plans. Student provides own instrument. Although I have provided instruments in certain situations. *** Specialties *** Rock, Reggae,Blues, and Fingerstyle.