Guitar with Walter H.

Professional guitarist/vocalist since 1976. Performed in Rock bands, Show Bands, Calypso bands, Jazz bands, and, yes, Wedding Bands. I have performed as a solo guitarist for wedding ceremonies, art shows, and other private functions. I have also performed on the trumpet and saxophone in bands, and on the violin and cello for wedding ceremonies. Private guitar instructor since 1984; Orchestral strings instructor since 1988. My students benefit from my professional experience in that they focus directly on what is necessary as a performer and don't waste time on strictly theoretical exercises. *** Lesson Details *** When students take lessons from me I take some time to get to know their reasons for wanting to play the instrument and who their favorite artists/bands are. That way I can gear the lessons towards their interests which keeps them motivated and helps them relate what they're learning to "real-world" music. I try to make the learning of music and technique as much fun as possible using challenges and games. I base my lessons on a research based curriculum called "Jump right In" where students will eventually learn to "hear" the music they are reading the same way one hears the words they are reading in a book. Then, based on their age and interests, I use whatever instrumental technique books I feel are best suited for that particular individual. After 3-6 months guitar students should be able to read and play basic chord progressions and simple single note melodies both by ear and by using standard music notation. This will mostly be in first position. Similarly, Bass students should be able to read and play bass lines that fit basic chord progressions, and be able to play simple single note melodies in first position. String students should have basic control of the bow and be able to read and play simple melodies by ear and by using standard music notation on at least 3 strings in first position. *** Studio Equipment *** I provide an amplifier, sound system, chairs, music stands, Keyboard with rhythm section, and a computer with a vast selection of music for listening and performing. *** Travel Equipment *** I provide supplemental materials, my own guitar and music stand and an Mp3 recorder to record lessons. I expect students to purchase a method book, their own instrument, a music stand and a tuner. *** Specialties *** I am familiar with most band and string methods as well as the Gordon/Grunow "Jump Right In" method. I perform in all styles from Classical to Calypso and everything in between.