Steve has taught hundreds of lessons around the Madison and surrounding area. He is a U.W. Baraboo graduate in music. While attending U.W. Baraboo he was awarded the Don H. Johnson musical award for his outstanding playing. Steve has played in many bands and has tons of live playing and recording experience. He currently plays in "BlueMagicBand". Steve has also placed original songs in movies. He started his own successful professional guitar teaching business in 2007. Steve believes in giving back to the community and volunteers at the Boy's and Girl's club teaching guitar.
As Steve's educational and work experience indicate, he is a gifted musician, composer, and band leader. More importantly, if you are looking for guitar lessons, he is a great teacher. His focus is to help each person to attain their musical goals, while having fun learning to play guitar the way you dream of...
First off, I will be honest right up front and say that learning any musical instrument can at times be frustrating. My experience learning guitar is no different then anyone elses. All the great “guitar god’s” had to go through what your about to go through or are right now. Yes, even Jimi Hendrix! But, the great thing is if you love a challenge then guitar is right up your alley!
In the beginning you are certainly limited to what you can do or play on the guitar. So, keeping realistic ideas and goals is very important. Understand that everytime you pick up your guitar you are getting closer to where you want your playing to be. Even if it’s 15-20 minutes a day. Having a structured practice can help immensely. Remember, everyone learns and teaches if different ways. I try and find what works best for each student. The more input you give me the better off we both will be and lessons will go much smoother. Never be afraid to speak up if your not enjoying something or something doesn’t make sense. You are paying good money for lessons and I respect this.
I have taught hundreds of lessons and I’ve never come across anyone who I didn’t think couldn’t play the guitar. Like anything though some are more natural at certain things then others. He or she may have to work at it harder then someone else. I’ve always thought that of myself. Everybody starts from the same place and I’ve never forgotten that. That’s why I’m very patient when it comes to teaching because I remember what it was like to be a beginner once. I truly believe that technique is everything when it comes to playing efficiently. Having total control over your fretting fingers and pick will allow you to play any music you want! And thats why I do place a big emphasis on technical exercises. These are your key or gateway to fast tracking your playing. Just like a professional athlete practices there craft we must do the same. Athletes don’t just show up for the games. They spend more time practicing then they do playing actual games. We to will spend more time practicing alone then actually playing shows. But, you need to be practicing the right things! And, have the right resources in front of you when you are practicing!
What I want you all to do is never think about what you can’t do on the guitar, but see yourself being able to do all those things you so badly want to do. Then start imagining where you will be in six months, then a year, then 2 years, then 5, then 10 and on. Another important thing to do is to reflect on how far you come. Remember when you couldn’t do anything and how now you can move from chord to chord or play your favorite lick like the back of your hand.
One big thing to keep in mind is that an instructor can only do so much for you. You are only with me for a half hour once a week. That is really nothing. So, in a sense you are teaching yourself! And that should be a very empowering feeling! I will do everything I can to showyou what you need, want, and have to know to succeed with your guitar playing. I will give you the right information, resources, and encouragement. You also get live playing opportunities to help expand your playing to you heights. I want you all to know that even I still get frustrated when learning new things.
Your embarking on a great journey that could bring you more joy and a way to express yourself then you could never have imagined. Playing guitar is something you can do forever and that alone is well worth the money you pay for the lessons. And, if your lucky learning guitar may just change your life like it has for me! I wish you all the luck and success with your new found passion! Thanks!
“You're a great teacher and friend. Keep up the amazing work”! -The Cailliets
“Thank you for all that you do for Logan. We’re so lucky to have found you”! -The Draw’s
“Thank you so much for Cassie’s guitar lessons. Her improvement is very noticeable and she really enjoys playing. You are very gifted teacher”! - The Frankel’s
