Portland Guitar Studio - Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Teach Beginning Students?
Yes! I love teaching beginning guitar. As a teacher, starting with a blank slate is such an exciting experience for several reasons. First and foremost, beginning students are so inspired by their rapid improvement, increased self-confidence, and pride in having learned something new, that they constantly remind me why music is such a wonderful and enriching pursuit in the first place.
Do You Teach Children As Well As Adults?
Yes! I have wonderful and engaging lesson plans for children ages 5 and up. I’ve worked in lesson studios whose clientele are 80-90% children, and they have been some of my favorite students ever.
What Are Your Rates?
Current rates for Portland Guitar Studio can be found on the Lessons page.
Do You Make House Calls?
Please inquire on the Contact page about my current ability to do house calls. I will soon be designating 1 day a week for in-home guitar lessons in Portland for a slightly increased tuition rate to account for travel cost.
What Can I Expect From My First Lesson?
Taking up a new pursuit like guitar lessons can be very daunting for many people. In my initial lessons, I like to set a tone that takes intimidation out of the process. We’ll discuss the your musical interests, inspirations, influences, and what type of learner you are. Then, I’ll compile that information and design a course of learning that will help you achieve your goals at your pace.
What Do I Need To Bring To My Lessons?
To each lesson appointment, students are required bring a playable instrument and a notebook/folder to keep all lesson materials. I strongly recommend that you purchase a guitar tuner and metronome as well, however these items aren’t required for lessons. I’d be happy to help you find those items and any other accessories you’ll need.
Do You Have a Referral Policy?
Yes! If you refer a student who signs up for a month of weekly sessions at Portland Guitar Studio, your next month of sessions will be discounted by 50%.
What Guitar Styles Do You Teach?
Over the past 15 years, I’ve professionally played and taught guitar in genres that range from acoustic folk, jazz chords and improvisation, blues, singer/songwriter, pop, rock, and general music theory. I don’t teach classical or flamenco guitar, but I would be happy to refer you to another teacher who does.
I See That You Offer 45 and 90-minute Lessons. Do You Offer Any Other Lesson Durations?
I believe that weekly 45-minute lessons are a great fit for the majority of student’s needs, so I offer that as my primary service. If you are interested in a lesson duration other than those listed on the Portland Guitar Studio Lessons page, please inquire and I’ll let you know my current rates for 60 and 120-minute lessons.
Awesome! How Do I Get Started?
Head to the Sign Up page to schedule our first meeting!