Mandolin with Thomas T.

I enjoy music, learning, and passing on what I have picked up from my journey as a musician and as a human being thusfar. I have been giving private lessons for 10 years now and have instructed students across a wide spectrum of ages and abilities. I have a bachelor's of music education degree, a master's degree in music technology and I excel at many instruments. Originally I was a clarinetist who doubled on saxophone but I expanded to upright bass for orchestra. I also minored in classical and jazz guitar in college and play some mandolin on the side. Currently I teach guitar out of my home and direct the music program at a church in Cincinnati. I appreciate and listen to all styles of music - classical, jazz, rock, county, blues, and metal. I'm constantly picking up new instruments and expanding my own development as a musician. I see music as something everyone is capable of participating in; we're all at different levels striving to become better at what we do. *** Lesson Details *** While anyone can have musical training what sets me apart is my genuine interest in passing this gift of music on to all age and ability levels. I focus my lessons around a holistic development of an individual's musical abilities. It is important not only to know how to play an instrument, but also why music works the way it does and some history behind the tradition. With beginners I work hard to prevent bad habits from forming and focus on the fundamentals to build a solid playing technique. With older students I gauge where they are musically and progress from there. I also like to ask students to set specific goals for themselves so we have a point to work toward. This could be something as simple as being able to play a certain song, or to learn how to change between chords more efficiently. Overall I'm a laid back teacher, but I do ask that students try to practice between lessons in order to progress faster. *** Studio Equipment *** 1) Music room w/ guitars, stands, recording equipment, foot stools and seating for parents 2) Small sanctuary w/ stands, foot stool, and seating for parents *** Travel Equipment *** I provide: Music stand, amp (when applicable), supplemental sheet music. Students provide: reeds/strings, their own instrument, chairs, method book