Introductions

I was that 6 year old air-guitaring on a tennis racquet to whatever was coming out of the radio.  My fascination with the guitar continues!  For every skill or bit of music I've mastered, I know there's plenty more to challenge me and always a new melody to be discovered.

Playing the guitar since 1980 and teaching since 1990, I love to watch my students' "a-ha!" moments. I'm a teacher by nature so your success in learning is the primary goal here.  

• I hold an Associate of Arts degree with emphasis in Music Business and Music Theory
• Played in rock bands in the '80's (sorry 'bout that hairspray hole in the ozone!) 
• Played acoustic, electric guitar and bass at Youth / Church group events throughout Arizona and California for 20+ years

Around age 8 is a great time for a child to start learning to play the guitar.  I often start with a familiar rhythm or melody played on one string to build finger dexterity, keeping it fun and interesting as we learn. There are smaller sized guitars available so you can find a good fit for your child's age and size without it being a toy guitar.  There are many benefits when kids learn an instrument:

• Increased memory, mathematical, listening, coordination and social skills
• Discipline and responsibility
• Enhanced self-expression and a personal sense of accomplishment

By the time we're adults we have uniquely different dexterity skills and established ways of processing new information.  My personalized lessons will make the difference because I gear my teaching to how you learn, at your pace.  Whether you want to learn a song, write a song, jam with your kids or friends, I'll help you accomplish your goals.

It's fun and good for you! (how often does that happen, right?) Be good to yourself and carve out some "you" time with the guitar!

• Psychology Today (2010 article) states:  Music training does for the brain what exercise does for body fitness
• Feeling stressed?  Playing a slower tempo song can actually lower your heart rate
• A 2015 study by the International Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease  found those who played an instrument in older adulthood had a 64% lower likelihood of developing a cognitive impairment or dementia