I look at music essentially as a subject of the heart. People are drawn to learning music by an irresistible pull, and what may start as a casual curiosity can grow into a lifelong passion. The mystery of the creative process is more of an art form than a science, with as many different approaches as there are personalities. In my forty years of teaching music, one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of putting myself in the shoes of a learner, listening and being responsive to my students’ interests, needs and strengths. I have a profound respect for each person’s individual musical tastes and styles, and I have an abiding faith in each person’s inner source of inspiration and wisdom. My main goal as a teacher is to help you tap your own creative wellspring and discover your unique talents. I began teaching acoustic guitar and voice lessons in 1984, also offering harmonium and tabla lessons a few years later. Some of my students approach music mainly for personal enjoyment and deepening their self-identity, while others use the skills they learn in their careers. I'm grateful for my exposure to the music of different cultures from around the world, from my roots in back-porch American folk music to the fascinating polyrhythms of traditional African drumming and the deeply moving melodies of Indian Classical music. I had the good fortune to study these disciplines intensively with Master Teachers during my time at Dartmouth College, at Wesleyan University, and through independent studies in India. My teacher training at Pacific Oaks College further deepened my appreciation of cultural diversity as well as my sensitivity to different learning styles. This experience has enriched my own compositions, as well as my ability to connect with learners from diverse cultural backgrounds, and to help guide people in developing a personal style free from artificial boundaries of genre. I never cease to be in awe of the amazing potential that each student brings to the table, and I am grateful for the chance to help people open up their musical gifts. Currently, I'm working on recording an album of original songs based on the poetry of Rumi, Hafiz and other mystics. # # # COVID-19 Update: I've resumed in-person lessons, using careful safety protocols. Please check with me for details. I will also continue teaching lessons online using specialized teaching techniques I've developed for online lessons, which my students have found very satisfying (please read my reviews!) You can use either the TakeLessons mobile app or your web browser (no software is necessary to download). I've found the clarity and responsiveness excellent, and a great bonus is the option to record your lesson for you to review later. Don't hesitate to give it a try!