Guitar with Rory M.

I've been playing guitar for over eleven years, teaching for seven, and have a Bachelor's in Music from the Thornton School of Music at University of Southern California. I've taught all ages and covered everything from theory to improvisation, transcription to technique. My aim is to contribute to my students’ knowledge of music and technical ability on their instrument, as well as encouraging their passion and creativity. I tailor every lesson to each individual student, no two people learn at the same pace. Besides learning songs and scales, my students will learn effective methods of practice, proper instrument and hand care, and other essential skills for an aspiring musician. Another goal is to give my students the tools, motivation, and confidence to practice and pursue music on their way, outside of the classroom. I whole-heartedly encourage students to bring in music that interests them, although I also have a stockpile of popular and fun songs to pull from, each of which teaches different techniques at different levels. Any time a student shows an interest in a new area or brings in music that’s unfamiliar to me, I take it as an opportunity to expand my own knowledge and skill. As such, I’ve learned and taught lessons on electric bass, ukulele, and keyboards as well as guitar and I’m comfortable in a multitude of styles: jazz, rock, classical, folk, funk, hip hop, reggae and more. Most of all, I want to share my love of music with my students. I first connected with music because it brought me joy. Although I take music seriously, I also believe that learning, playing, and performing should be liberating and expressive.