Why Learn From Me?

Why should I take lessons from you, as opposed to trying to learn from some other source...?

Not only have I been teaching for over 20 years worldwide, but I have been teaching all levels of students online and in person successfully for 20 years worldwide. I break things down to the simplest level possible first, to make sure the student understands the basics and the foundation, and once you have a solid foundation, you can grow by leaps and bounds!

Can't I just watch some instructional videos online or on YouTube and still learn the same stuff...?

No, actually you can't. Not only are recorded video lessons not the same as 1-on-1 instruction from a good teacher (no interaction to correct your mistakes and answer your questions), but anyone in the world with absolutely no qualifications whatsoever can upload a video on the internet nowadays and claim to be a "teacher". In fact, that is the norm nowadays on YouTube and other online video communities, just take a look out there. People ranging from beginners to intermediates of varying playing skill levels AND varying teaching skill levels are everywhere! I cannot tell you how many students I have had over the years recently who have come to me for lessons where I had to re-teach them many basics so they not only can finally play well, but so they can also understand correctly what they should be doing and why they should be doing it! You get what you pay for with lessons, and when you learn something and practice something incorrectly, even with the occasional "free" lesson that is not terrible, no one is there to let you know if you are practicing it correctly or incorrectly.

Well, just to start out and get some basics, shouldn't I just take lessons from someone "less formal" or less expensive than you...?

Again...you get what you pay for. Think about it, the first lessons in which you learn to play an instrument are so important to your development, wouldn't you want to make sure you at least get the basics down correctly and from someone who absolutely knows their stuff? It actually makes much more sense to make sure you get the best lessons possible as soon as you are able to...that is, if you want to become a decent player and not develop too many bad habits (which can be hard to overcome in the long run).

OK, well this makes sense so far. What should I expect from a private lesson with you...?

First, you should expect me to take you seriously as a student, and also expect this to be fun as well! Since I cater every single lesson specifically to the student I am teaching, you should also expect each lesson to be geared towards what your strengths and weaknesses are, how you learn, what your goals and interests are, etc...it is all about YOU and how we can get you to the next level. Not just the next level of skill on the harmonica, but the next level of musicianship! I will give you exercises, jam tracks, and whatever else is needed for the lesson and your practice sessions.

How long and how often are the lessons...?

I schedule half-hour and hour-long sessions. The regularity depends on your schedule and my availability, but normally once every 2-4 weeks seems to work well with my students. I give you plenty to work on, and I will follow through with checking up on your skills and practice routine each session.

What if I have other questions in between lessons, or I forget something?

I make myself available via email to my students to answer questions or any other concerns about the lessons we have had. No worries, I am here to help, and I am committed to helping you become the best player you can be!

What skills and topics can you teach me...?

Honestly, the list is endless, but here is a list of just some of the topics and techniques that I have covered countless times, and can cover with you:

Also, artist studies on masters such as Little Walter, Big Walter, James Cotton, George Smith, Junior Wells, Slim Harpo, Sonny Boy Williamson (Rice Miller), etc...