Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you charge?
$42 for the first lesson, which is over Zoom.
$220 for an introductory lesson package of four guitar lessons.
After your intro package is done, you have three options with which to move forward:
$197 - Monthly subscription for lessons every other week
$360 - Monthly subscription for lessons every week
Why should I choose you as my guitar coach?
Truly, these lessons are yours. You’re the hero in this story (not me). My job is to help you, and no one else.
I only teach you what you want to learn.
I’m a staunch guardian of your guitar-learning, every step of the way. I’ll guide you smoothly past the pitfalls, whether physical or mental.
I make learning way fun, too.
And if you’re concerned you have zero talent, I’ll gratefully prove you wrong (and gloat about it to you later, ha!). I help people learn guitar extremely quickly, in a fraction of the amount of time it takes “guitar teachers.”
Let’s talk about risk mitigation while we’re at it!
Aside from holding a masters degree in guitar from the Eastman School of Music (#1 in the nation for many years running), I’ve been teaching guitar since 2006. I estimate that I’ve logged about 40,000 hours in music.
Finally, I am a high-vibration person; I am grateful to work with so many wonderful people each week, and I love meeting new people.
Why do you call yourself a guitar coach?
I like to work with clients to increase their skills, not just teach them. The service I provide has a greater scope than traditional guitar teachers.
I mold and adjust what I know about guitar to the strengths and abilities of whomever I’m working with, wherever they are. I do this in a super-personal and hands-on way, and I aim to make it a total party of an experience.
Traditional guitar teachers offer neither the depth or the tact that I regularly employ. I always ask what someone values first because I know that if someone comes to me for guidance, its truly all about them. Not me.
What do you get out of coaching?
I value working with people who love the feeling of playing guitar in a stronger way, each week.
I value seeing people make significant changes in their lives as a result of taking lessons.
I value long-term collaborations where we both listen to and work with each other.
I value seeing people play more confidently with each lesson.
I value watching someone go from absolute zero to absolute badass.
I value being a guide, a coach.
I value stepping up to the challenge of helping any one person out. I make sure he/she/they have exactly what is needed to have a beautiful hobby of guitar for the rest of their lives.
How much do I need to practice?
I ask everyone to commit to five minute of practice each day.
Hundreds of my clients have learned to play guitar under my guidance and method, and I’ve rarely assigned more than five minutes of practice each day.
Do you only work with beginners?
If you’re a beginner, you’re in luck: For a significant amount of my career, I exclusively worked with beginners.
AND I’m not limiting myself!
I love working with people who are next-level and need guidance to get even better at guitar.
What’s it like to take lessons with you?
I’m unafraid to say that I’m the best in Austin. Why not take a quick peek at some of my testimonials?
Where are you located?
I’m located in South Austin. I teach the first lesson through Zoom.
If we both feel comfortable meeting in person, then I’ll invite you over to my office.
Do you do in-person lessons?
Yes, but the first lesson is by Zoom. I need to get to know you first. If I feel comfy with having you over, I’ll invite you.
How long are your lessons?
Lessons last for about 50 minutes, sometimes longer and sometimes shorter. We’ll go longer if you are really deep into learning something on the guitar and it’s clear you need a little more time with me. We’ll go shorter (but not by much) if I get you through everything and don’t want to overwhelm you.
I don’t do half hour lessons.
Do I have to sign a contract to be in guitar lessons with you?
Nope!
Do you do group lessons?
Nope!
What if I forget about my lesson and don’t show up?
That forces me to reconsider working with you. Don’t do it.
Practically speaking though, if I don’t see you within 15 minutes, I’ll assume something’s going on and I’ll wait until I hear back from you. You need to email me with a good reason!
Do you teach children?
No one under 14.
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult to any in-person lesson.
Adults can play and snuggle with my dog Luna during the lesson:
Do you require students to perform?
No. You can learn guitar without performing. Hundreds of my students already have.
Do you require students to learn music theory, or to learn to read music?
Not at all. However, I will teach what you ask me to teach you. If you'd like to learn music theory, then ask a question and I’ll answer it.