
Alexandria, VA Banjo Lessons
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About Edwin I.
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Earl Scruggs 3 finger style
Learning songs
Improvisation soloing
Proper technique
Repertoire
Music analysis
About Edwin
I am a professional teacher/studio musician/performer/producer with over 17 years of private teaching experience and a graduate of the University of Miami Studio Music and Jazz program in 2002 specializing in the guitar.
I am available to teach guitar(acoustic, electric, classical) for all levels, ages, and styles(pop to folk, rock to soul, world to classical) in English, Spanish and Japanese.
Other subjects taught include bass guitar, piano/keyboard, ukulele, banjo, mandolin, harmonium, classical percussion, music theory, composition(all styles from pop to classical), ear training, and studio production/engineering/mixing.
Born in Cali, Colombia on April 1979, I began my musical endeavors studying the piano at the age of 6. Early on I had the opportunit
During 1996-98 I studied jazz guitar at the New World School of the Arts music program under the direction of J.B. Dyas and Dr. Roby George. Upon graduation, I was immediately accepted to the University of Miami jazz guitar program under the direction of Randall Dollahan. It was during this time that I also refined my skills as a classical guitarist and as a composer/arranger. In addition, I began passing my knowledge onto friends and eventually began working as a teacher.
My ability to play almost any genre of music is the fruit of past experience playing with an impressive variety of music groups, including jazz combos, symphony orchestras, Andean world music ensembles, and several rock and pop groups as well. As a studio guitarist I have recorded for various artists including Jaci Velasquez, Carlos Ponce, Alexandre Pires, and Noelia.
*** Lesson Details ***
Now also available to teach online video chat lessons through Skype.
Every one of you is unique and there are many possible paths to reach your goals in music.
With my background and music industry experience, I am able to customize my lessons for you so that you can reach your desired goals. We will take some time to find out where your passion lies in music and I will use my experience and knowledge to create a customized lesson-plan that will allow us to focus on reaching your desired goals and at the same time maintain a well rounded music education.
I find this to be key in making the lessons and your practice sessions very enjoyable, fun and laid back - knowing that everything we practice, play and talk about is in line with your goals as a student.
I will also be playing along with you and demonstrating everything that we're working on - music is meant to be shared and played with others and it is important to have that experience of interaction from early on in your lessons.
So whether it's learning to accompany yourself or others, write songs, read music, understand harmony, solo, or just jam out to your favorite songs, you will be well on your way to reaching your goals within 6 months of my lessons.
Look forward to making music with you!
Want to learn a quick exercise for mastering the fretboard on your guitar? Check out my article on the TakeLessons blog here: http://takelessons.com/blog/guitar-fretboard-chart
*** Studio Equipment ***
Living room w/ grand piano and seating for parents.
Room/studio with professional recording equipment - Logic Pro X recording software, Mackie HR824 Studio Monitors, Miktech C4 Tube Microphone, UA6176 Preamp/compressor, Apogee Duet D/A converter.
*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide my instrument and teaching materials.
Students provide their instrument, music folders.
*** Specialties ***
All styles - pop, rock, classical, jazz, blues, folk, ethnic, latin, soul
Reviews
· Ukulele · Online

· Guitar · In studio

· Piano · Online

Edwin I.
About Eric L.
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Beginner banjo lessons
About Eric
Eric earned a degree in Classical Guitar Performance from the Hartt School of Music at the University of Hartford, where he studied under the direction of guitar pedagogue, Richard Provost. While at Hartt and shortly after, Eri
Eric has taught guitar at the college level for over twenty years teaching on the music faculties of University of Central Florida, Rollins College, Stetson University, Bethune Cookman College, Florida Southern College, and St. Leo College.
Eric's experience includes performances with rock groups, stage bands, folk groups, classical ensembles, jazz combos, Broadway shows, operas, solo recitals, and concerto appearances. Eric has appeared hundreds times at Disney and Sea World as well as other venues around Central Florida.
Throughout the years he has had many unique experiences while performing, one of his favorites being the opportunity to play the MASH theme song for Alan Alda as well as other stars in attendance at a cast party for the show, Win, Lose or Draw at EPCOT Center.
Although he enjoys performing, Eric considers teaching music to be highly gratifying. The importance of giving students a good foundation with the proper technique and performance skills cannot be underestimated. When a student can play a song from beginning to end with style and confidence you know you've given them a gift that will offer them enjoyment for the rest of their lives.
*** Lesson Details ***
If you're looking at this site, you're already on your way to becoming an AWESOME musician! Whether this is your first attempt at music lessons or you've been playing for a while and trying to improve your skills, I'm EXCITED about working with you. I am a professional music educator and performer that has a passion for music and teaching. I will gear each lesson to fit your musical interests and playing level while I encourage and motivate. My goal is to use proven teaching methods and a supportive learning environment to help you realize your musical potential, as well as having FUN while doing it.
*** Studio Equipment ***
Ipad apps, music stand, instrument stands, tuner, metronome, amp, chairs,
*** Specialties ***
Fingerstyle- Classical, Fingerstyle Jazz, Folk, Celtic.
Pickstyle- Rock, Blues, Jazz.
Reviews

· Banjo · In studio

· Acoustic Guitar · In studio

· Guitar · In studio
He is knowledgeable, yet relaxed.

Eric L.
About Mike T.
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Scruggs Style Bluegrass 5-String Banjo
About Mike
My banjo philosophy is that while we may aspire to play banjo like Earl Scruggs, it is not necessary to be at that level to enjoy playing bluegrass music. The organic simplicity of bluegrass songs, the repetition of components, and the strong melody lines makes entry level playing fun and rewarding and within the reach of anyone who is willing to try.
When bluegrass musicians are jamming together, using
*** Lesson Details ***
I believe that anyone learning bluegrass should first learn the chords to favorite easy songs, and a simple way of accompanying. Playing songs smoothly in real time while using a songbook (or a fellow picker) for the words, is easy, fun, and builds a rhythmic/chordal foundation and repertoire.
Easy jamming is highly recommended and will be part of the learning program. Good sounding rhythm techniques can be added easily as they are learned. Through this process, overall technique is expanded and the music sounds more interesting. Once we have the chords and rhythm, different types of soloing can be added. The easiest method is to "fake it" by just playing simple licks and rhythm techniques while following the chord changes. The next step up might be to play an exact tabbed (a form of written banjo music) basic solo, or (better) a self-composed one featuring melody. This phase is exciting to enter, and of course it creates motivation to really improve and master those solos we all want to play. Since all students come to bluegrass banjo with their own unique skills and experience - I will design a program just for you to ensure you reach you playing goals.
*** Travel Equipment ***
Little equipment is required for bluegrass banjo other than the instrument.
*** Specialties ***
5 string Bluegrass Banjo
Reviews

· Banjo · In studio

· Banjo · In studio

· Banjo · In studio

Mike T.
About Linda L.
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I have been playing bluegrass banjo for over 20 years, and have performed for events such as Thanksgiving dinners at hotels, folk clubs, bluegrass festivals, and fundraisers. In addition to playing and teaching banjo, I play and teach guitar and piano, with guitar being my main instrument. I am no Earl Scruggs, but I am a great teacher for beginners and intermediate players. As a teacher, I am patient, intuitive, and always tailor the lessons to fit the interests and learning styles of each individual student.
About Linda
I do not typically provide any equipment - but I am willing to select and purchase books for the students to learn from (cost of books to be reimbursed by the student/parent) when requested to do so.
I am also willing to provide stick-on note-names for the keyboard, for young children.
The students must have their own instruments, and provide a folder for sheet music and notes/instructions.
*** Specialties ***
Guitar, I specialize in the following styles: jazz, rock, blues, folk, bluegrass, and children's songs.
Piano: I prefer electronic keyboard to acoustic piano, but am happy to teach beginning students on a regular piano as well. I teach note-reading, playing by ear, and theory, with en emphasis on rock, pop, and folk music. I include arranging, chord theory, and use of the many features of an elec
Bass Guitar: I teach rock, pop, funk, and country music on bass.
Banjo: I teach bluegrass, country, and some blues and rock music. I can also teach a bit of old-timey frailing/clawhammer style.
English and Reading: I am highly qualified, to tutor/teach English (spoken, written, and reading comprehension) to both native English speakers and to those learning it as a second language.
*** I am particularly good at working with children who have a.d.h.d. and other learning disabilities!
Reviews

· Banjo · In home

· Ukulele · Online

· Banjo · In studio

Linda L.
About John B.
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Learn how to play Banjo!
While learning the Banjo, students will learn specific rolls such as forward and backward rolls, chords strum patterns, rhythm playing and various songs such as Foggy Mountain Breakdown and Dueling Banjos. They will learn the styles of Bluegrass and Claw Hammer playing.
About John
*** Lesson Details ***
Lessons are custom designed to meet the needs of every student, whether it is someone just starting out with the basics or for that seasoned player that wants to hone their professional skills. As a teacher, I consider myself easy going and laid back, with an emphasis on encouraging each student to do their very
*** Studio Equipment ***
Guitar, instruments, keyboards recording equipment, waiting room, seating for parents
*** Travel Equipment ***
Music stand, foot stool, cables.- Teacher
Own instrument, amplifier if needed, notebook.-Student
*** Specialties ***
I have been teaching for about 25 years and am well versed in Jazz, Classical, Rock, Blues and Country genres. I focus on anything from note reading, theory, improvisation and composing.
Reviews

· Guitar · In studio

· Classical Guitar · In home

· Bass Guitar · In home

John B.
About David F.
CloseLearn the music you want to learn! Any style, any genre!!
About David
*** Lesson Details ***
Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced players welcome! Lessons for Guitar, Banjo, Mandolin, Ukulele, or Electric Bass!
*** Specialties ***
Guitar, Mandolin, Bass Guitar, Ukulele, Banjo
Reviews

· Mandolin · In home

· Banjo · Online
David F.
About Ryan B.
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I've been teaching banjo for 4 years helping students develop a love for the instrument and learn more about music along the way. My specialty is Scruggs style picking, but I'm also comfortable teaching clawhammer, reno, or melodic styles and enjoy working on hybrid and progressive styles, too. Within the first few lessons you'll have a solid base of picking and chord changes and even a few simple songs under your belt. Moving on from there I will craft lessons to move you toward a "goal song," making sure to cater your progress to your needs while keeping a focus on good technique. I enjoy working with students of all ages and experiences and I can't wait to meet you!
About Ryan
As a teacher Ryan's goals are fairly simple. First and foremost he wants to make his lessons comfortable, interesting and fun. A close second is to build a strong foundation on the basics, so as we learn more advanced techniques we have a solid base of technique to build upon. And third, an understanding of the theory and history behind the music is a great way to engage in the music beyond just the rote learning of technique.
After a brief foray in physics, Ryan settle into a degree in music at the Univer
Currently Ryan is a co-lead singer, songwriter and stringed instrument player for the local band Distant Brothers, a folk rock band based out of Chicago. They play venues throughout the Midwest, with some of the notable venues being House of Blues, Metro and Cubby Bear in Chicago. Another highlight of his time with the band has been a collaboration with Oistrakh Symphony Orchestra, where he not only was able to play in collaboration with the orchestra, but joined in the arranging and conceptualization of some of the pieces played.
Reviews
· Banjo · Online

· Banjo · Online

· Banjo · Online

Ryan B.
About Keith M.
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I've been playing banjo when I was 16. It was always my favorite instrument to play. I started teaching when I was 18. Having self taught myself I've developed an easy way to think about learning a complicated instrument. I currently play banjo professionally with the world renowned Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out. I've played all over the US and also Canada and Europe.
About Keith
Reviews

· Banjo · Online

· Banjo · Online

· Acoustic Guitar · In studio

Keith M.
About Lisa A.
CloseI teach a 3 finger style of Banjo playing and how to read, hear, and play music. I teach you how to play the chords, read the tablature and play by ear.
About Lisa
She graduated in 1997 and has been teaching professionally, both in schools and privately, since that time. She has taught General Music grades K-8 in the Parochial School System. She has been the Music Director and Worship Leader for several Churches where she has directed Adult Choir, Praise Team, Bell Choir, Chime Tone Choir, Orchestra and Children's Choir. She has accompanied all these ensembles on Piano, Guitar, and Organ.
Lisa Abrams teaches all areas of music: Theory, Technic, Reading, Counting, Ear Training, Composition, etc. When you take lessons from Lisa, her goal is more than teaching you how to play or sing a song. She gives you the tools necessary to be able to play ANY song. She teaches what few others teach; how to BE a music
Reviews

· Trumpet · Online

· Vocal Training · In studio

· Piano · Online
Lisa A.
About Sheri D.
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I am UNIQUE! I have been giving private music lessons since 1980. I teach 3-finger Scruggs style and 3-finger Melodic banjo, and Clawhammer or frailing style. I teach alternate tunnings to give your banjo playing a more unique sound. I can teach you to play any style of music from Bluegrass to Blues to Jazz to Classical. I can write tab for you. I can teach you to transcribe sheet music into banjo tab. I am patient. I have a Masters degree in Education. You are afraid you can't learn to play music because of your age? I have taught students between the ages of 7-83. You are afraid your arthritis or some injury will prevent you from being a good banjo player? I have 2 plates and 9 screws in my right wrist and arthritis in my fingers and I can still play FAST. I can teach you banjo as a form of physical therapy.
About Sheri

Sheri D.
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Banjo Lesson Reviews from Students
Students are raving about their Banjo instructors on TakeLessons. Check out some of these recent reviews.
I'm new to the banjo, having spent most of my life playing the guitar, acoustic, of course. I'd met Mike at a jam and was very impress
I'm as good as he is!"
I can't wait for my next lessons with her."
I tried to learn banjo on my own. Bought books, instruction CDs, videos on You Tube. It just wasn't happening for me - I
Mike is very patient and non-judgmental. He easily accomodates my work schedule. While he is a fine banjo player himself - our lessons are always about me and how to improve my playing. I always look forward to our next lesson."
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