Quick Facts about Nick
- Teaches electric and acoustic guitar
- Specializes in rock and folk oriented music, but can teach a variety of styles and techniques including the fundamentals of finger picking, blues, soloing, funk, and modern pop.
- Can work with you to play guitar and sing at the same time
- Loves all types of music - 60/70s pop like The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Zombies, David Bowie, and ELO just to name a few.
- Enjoys listening to a range of bands/musicians including Wilco, Ween, Radiohead, Nirvana, The Ramones, Outkast, Dolly Parton, Of Montreal, Weezer, and the list goes on
- Loves video game music. Some of my favorite soundtracks include The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Super Mario World, Banjo Kazooie, Pikmin, and Animal Crossing
- Also has experience with voice, bass, and piano.
Learn more about Nick
General Teaching Style
I like to teach the fundamentals of guitar and music theory through playing songs with my students. Most lessons will be structured around a tune I’ve prepared that incorporates a useful technique or concept. I’ll provide appropriate scales, arpeggios, and other material for students who are interested. Ultimately, I hope to keep lessons fun and to inspire my students to want to practice on their own.
I work well with any age and skill level ranging from beginner to intermediate. I'll always tailor my teaching style to my student, and I hope to make my students comfortable in asking any and all questions.
I know that learning music can be little daunting at first, but don't worry, I’ll be there to help every step of the way!
I have 15 years of experience playing guitar, performing live, and writing/recording music. During my first couple of years learning guitar, I took private lessons, which helped give me a foundational knowledge of technique and music theory that set me up to continue studying on my own.
Throughout my twenties, I played in various bands, and produced a full-length album of original music. Most recently, I’ve been collaborating with local game developers to create music for video games!
I’m excited to work with students, and hope to be an encouraging and knowledgeable resource for them.
Curriculum
I use a collection of hand-picked printouts that I think will help my students progress to the next level. Typically, these will include chord charts, guitar neck diagrams, and tab or notation (if applicable). I may suggest books, music, or videos to check out. I hope students will share with me some of the music they're into!
Focus & Goals of the First Lesson
My students can expect to learn a song using open chords and/or a popular one-string riff. I’ll show them some basic guitar techniques (how to hold a guitar, string names, simple strumming patterns and pickings), and by the end of the lesson give them a few exercises to practice throughout the week.
For children, I typically do not frame anything using theory. I think what is most important is keeping music fun, and sometimes too many concepts can be confusing. Depending on the student, I will use simplified versions of chords and single string lines to help accommodate any physical difficult they may have.
Fun and Patient Teacher
My strength lies in patience, keeping things fun, and my ability to tailor my lessons to my students’ goals and needs.
In addition to studying guitar, I am actively learning piano! No matter your age or ability on a single instrument, you can always continue learning. I hope to instill the mindset that music is a rewarding, life-long pursuit.
Most Inspirational Music Moments and Experiences
Almost any time I go out to see live music, whether it’s an open mic, local show, or touring act. It’s inspiring to see people in their element. I often leave shows energized and wanting to jam or practice!
Also, all the times when “it” finally clicks, or when I realize that the thing that was once super difficult now comes naturally.
Watch Nick Play
Top 3 Desert Island Albums
White Pepper by Ween
All Things Must Pass by George Harrison
Cherry Peel by of Montreal