Mandolin Lessons & Classes in Downtown Mercer Island

I began learning mandolin several years ago and am proficient with chords and tunes. Classical or bluegrass style. I can teach sight reading music notation as well.

I teach Mandolin using the Suzuki method and then branch out into into bluegrass mandolin playing. The mandolin is tuned like a violin double strings. So the left hand fingering is the same as the violin and the picking is similar to the guitar. If you play the violin then the main thing you need to learn is the right hand picking. If you play the guitar then you will need to learn the left hand fingering. Mandolin is a fun instrument to learn and to play.

Learn all the chords, scales and songs with best known Mandolin parts!

Traditional and contemporary styles: scales, chords, theory and soloing techniques

.I can show you how to read notes, tabs and charts, play by ear and play like a pro.

I break the mandolin repertoire into its components of melody, chords, and rhythm. I teach theory and tools for improvisation for those interested in Bluegrass or Modern Mandolin music in general.

*Adults*
Whether you are a beginner or have been playing for years my comprehensive lessons will help you to quickly realize your musical goals. I tailor each lesson to fit your individual needs and will get you strumming your favorite songs, reading music, taking soaring solos, or writing your own melodies while simultaneously deepening your understanding of the language of music. At the end of each lesson you’ll receive an MP3 of all the material covered.

*Kids*
I believe in building music fundamentals while fostering a love of playing. My fun, imaginative, and age appropriate classes are just right for any budding musician! Each lesson is customized to get the individual student excited about music, that means playing songs they like and having fun while learning the essential techniques and developing musicality. I have extensive experience working with children 5-16 and adapt my teaching to promote success for each unique student.

*Genres*
Pop, Folk, Rock, Blues, Jazz, ...

Learn to read and and easy hand positioning to aquire playing the notes.

Mandolin is a delightful instrument to study and is a great addition if you are already a guitarist or a singer looking to accompany themselves in unique ways. As with my guitar lessons, I design a student's curriculum to fit each individual's needs and desires. I can teach reading and music theory, but also get you strumming along to your favorite songs or learning how to flatpick basic bluegrass tunes. My goal with any instrumental lessons is to get a student to think for themselves on their instrument through a balance of ear training and functional knowledge of the instrument.

While the mandolin isn’t my first instrument, it quickly became my favorite and most proficient. Take up lessons with me, and you can jump into bluegrass, country, folk, classical, jazz or even rock tunes. Strumming & picking both play a significant roll in playing Mando, and you’ll see quick results from my lesson plans!