Private Blues Guitar tutoring lessons West McLean, VA.

I started playing acoustic guitar when I was seven years old. I have been playing and teaching mostly bluegrass, old time, Irish, blues, and swing jazz styles for many years. I have taught both privately and have also done various workshops at festivals. I have taught guitar multiple years for instance at the Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival in PA.
My students learn to have fun with music. Students can work on rhythms, melodies, improvisation, song writing, getting into and/or hanging on in a jam session, etc.

David enjoys teaching students from all different backgrounds and levels of proficiency. Whether you are just starting out or a virtuoso shredder in the making, he is happy to teach you! Over all, he is fairly laid back, as long as you practice. He usually combines work with reading off of the treble clef (what he likens to "eating your vegetables." You may not want to do it, but it will make you a healthier musician!) with learning more popular songs (or songs the student says they would like to learn) through tablature and chord charts, depending on the style of the song.

David is also very pro music theory. He usually incorporates music theory into the curriculum in conjunction with the material already being discussed. He is also very knowledgeable about composition/songwriting, and if the student is interested in learning more about this area, he is happy to share what he knows!

Since Rock evolved from the blues, knowing how to play the blues is essential for guitarists to learn.

My method is centered around having my students consistently learn new material, while retaining what they have learned. I’m sensitive to making sure they are challenged while also giving them material that will enable them to succeed. I customize each lesson to meet the needs and interests of each student. An example of a 45 minute lesson commonly includes the first 5 minutes being dedicated to checking in on how the practice went, and answering any questions the student may have about the material. Then there would be 15 minutes of review which would consist of finding which parts of the material are most challenging and finding the most effective way for the student to practice those parts and perfect the material. After that, there would be a three minute pause during which the student would listen to the new piece (whether it be material I introduced or material they suggested) so they can write down everything that they enjoyed and perceived about the new piece. Then there ...

Learn to play music that you love!

I'm 26 years old and have been playing the guitar for 20 years. I will teach you what you want to learn. Whether it's scales, theory or some of your favorite songs. I've performed with the original Beatles drummer Pete Best, I've shared the stage with Greg Hawkes from The Cars. I play in 2 Beatles tribute bands and I have my own original band. I currently teach at 2 music schools and have experience teaching all ages and all levels. I can teach you the tools you need to really connect with the instrument.