Making the Guitar Speak: the Art of Sound Focus & Listening

From 50.9 £ /h

Let's look at how you are playing and talk about how you feel about what you are doing with your music. I will help you find alternatives in many dimensions of technique and explore with you extended techniques and physical applications to individualize, clarify and amply your talents. And I don't mean "effects pedals" or plugins, although I can go in this direction too. The focus of my instruction moreover is on intention, sound projection and expression, the mind, the breathing body, listening and clean use of the hands. Concerning my availability: generally I am able to meet anytime between 10 am and 20 pm in my time zone. So don't worry about the availability schedule provide fro you here. Let's just find out when we are mutually available. I can meet online or if you live in Poznan, Poland, we can meet at my studio or, in some cases, I may be able to come to you, although my fee goes up when I have to travel.

Extra information

Make sure you are in tune with your guitar :)

Location

Online from Poland

About Me

I am a sound artist who used many techniques in creating soundscapes, which as a bit like sound painting, ambient music or sound tracks (for the movie that is your life).
I am a guitarist with 50 years of playing experience. I've provided sound for dance, theater, workshops and films. As a field recording artist I relate my recording and listening practice to nature and issues of ecology such as climate change and species diversity.

I am also a writer, proofreader, editor and have published poetry and essays.
Furthermore, I teach conversational English. But enough about me. What are your needs?

Education

Education
Life Itself learning basic German, Polish, Romanian, Bulgarian while working & traveling in Europe and further afield (Japan and Indonesia)
MFA in World and Comparative Literature, San Francisco State University, 1996
2 Years at Universita di Firenze, Italia; Faccolta di Filosofia e Letteratura, 1994-95
BA in Poetics/ Humanities, New College of California, San Francisco, USA, 1989
AA in English Language Studies, Erie Community College, Buffalo, NY, 1984

Experience / Qualifications

Language Teaching Experiences
English as a Second Language @ ESL Abroad, Manhattan, NY, 1998. 6 Months
Substitute Teacher in English, Music @ Albuquerque High Schools. 2003-2005
English as Second Language, Private Lessons in Berlin, sporadically, 2006-2008
English Native Speaker Conversationalist @ Studio Jezykowe, Środa Wlkp. 2010-2014
English Native Speaker/Conversation @ Salamanca School, Lubon 2014
ESL Native Speaker/Conversation/Coach/Proofreader, Self-Employed 2015 until Present 2025

Additional Experiences
Voice-Overs for Promotional Videos Oknoplast/VO recordings, Poznan.
Vocal Podcast appearances and production appearing on-line and on public radio
in the UK and USA. Lectures on Acoustic Ecology, Sound Arts, Poetics.

Age

Children (7-12 years old)

Teenagers (13-17 years old)

Adults (18-64 years old)

Seniors (65+ years old)

Student level

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Duration

30 minutes

45 minutes

60 minutes

The class is taught in

English

Skills

Music theory lessons

Sound (music)

Music composition

Availability of a typical week

(GMT -05:00)

New York

Online via webcam

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

00-04

04-08

08-12

12-16

16-20

20-24

Lou-Indigo

4.87

(84)

The course that I propose is BILINGUAL FRENCH / ENGLISH, as well as 2 BOOKS.

Age and musical taste are not restrictive when in the program, you can with qualitative daily work (not quantitative) quickly observe your progress.

Here the pleasure of playing music is put forward.

The kind of music you love most will be the focus of the course, their codes and secrets will be the focus of our study, that's what I want to share with you.

We can do technical lessons and simply learn together how to play one or more songs of your choice or mine, enrich your game with this approach and your repertoire!

(For example, We can re-arrange the pieces and make them more original by approaching the system (CAGED), and enriching their chords, resulting in new positions, new techniques and new sounds, using arpeggio techniques rather than strumming for 4-chord pieces, voicing and fingerstyle techniques, in short, expanding the instrument's playing fields and playing skills to keep progressing in your game and improve your rehearsals ...)

If you make a request, this program is obviously accompanied by the pleasure of learning more in theory and being able to directly apply new knowledge on its instrument and identify its common or rare use in the pieces discussed in class.

In this case, the theory is translated to be accessible to anyone, both for those who are connoisseurs and for those who discover everything from absolute zero.
The exercises, songs, and theoretical explanations offered throughout the program are organized in an order of progressive difficulty.

I wrote and produced 2 books of my method to learn the guitar and the music, that I sell to accompany my course and your apprenticeship in the best conditions and so that you can continue the course even at home and to review etc ... .
There is ONE BOOK OF COURSES containing all the theoretical and practical program of the year, as well as a BOOK OF EXERCISE on the ranges and the modes that you can obtain directly.

You can find here an indicative list of objectives that I propose in my theoretical program, which can of course adapt to your request.

The general theoretical objectives of the course:

--- Tuning / tuning and knowing his guitar:
* Standard Tuning
* Drop Tuning
* Open Tuning
* Adjust the optimal tension of the strings
* Adjust the shaft axis
* Adjust the action of the strings
* Choose the strings adapted to the style of play / tuning
* Change his strings

-Know his chords:
* Triads: Fundamental State & Inversions
* Tetrads: Fundamental State & Inversions
* The chord progressions of the Range
* Arpeggio techniques (tapping, sweep, 1/2/4 fing.shape, etc ...)

--- Know his scales and his modes

* The Mode of the Major scale
* 3 Modes of the Minor scale: Natural / Melodic / Harmonic
* Modes of the Pentatonic range: 5 positions
* Modes of the Blues range: 5 positions
Etc ...

--- Technique to the Pick / Plectrum / Tab / Pick (Electric Guitar):
* Alternate Picking
* Fast Picking / Tremolo Picking
* Hybrid Picking
* Palm Mute
* Natural Harmonics
* Pinch Harmonics
* Artificial Harmonics
* Shredding
* Tapping
* Sweep Picking
* Legato Picking

--- Strumming / Hand Picking (Acoustic Guitar)
* "SnareDrum" percussion on the guitar
* Arpeggios pinched with 4 fingers + thumb
* Rasgueado (Flamenco Technique)
* Generic Strumming
* Fingerstyle Picking
* Two-finger picking + Legato for fast melodies (eg a solo)

-Play the metronome
* exercises on click
* practice on song riffs

-Learn his favorite songs
* without thinking about the difficulty, nothing is impossible with the right methodology

-Improvise
* choose ranges and positions
* to place oneself rhythmically, to finish on the judicious notes

-Theory of Harmony
* Understand harmonization and its practice

-Theory on the Melody

-Theory of Rhythm

Denise

4.87

(84)

My name is Denise and I'm a professional singer with a singing master's degree from Catalonia's Music College (ESMUC) specialized in Historical Singing, Musicology and Music Education.
My experience runs mostly in early and chamber music, nevertheless I also have the experience and knowledge of popular musical styles such as Latin-American folk, jazz and musicals.
As a docent or vocal coach I've collaborated with different academic institutions and private artistic projects, focusing mostly on international students or social integration programs.

My main goal is to help the student discover her or his voice while enjoying making music.
No experience is needed, just bring your enthusiasm and favorite music.
Classes can be given either in English, Spanish, French or Deutsch.
There is no limit for styles, bring your favorite music and I will provide a safe environment for your personal and musical growth.

It will be a joy to listen to you.
Denise

Camille

4.87

(84)

Folk or classical acoustic guitar.

The teaching philosophy is adapted to the level of each individual, according to the pace of work and motivation.

For example, for beginners: Technique of the plectrum or fingers, coordination and correction of the right and left hand. Learning basic chords, simple themes, simple rhythms, reading tablatures (...).

For intermediaries: development of rhythm, construction of chords, writing of tablatures, basic notions of harmony (...).

Depending on your goals, you can learn, if you wish, to play 60 to 80% of current music from the first lessons, which often use the same chords and the same techniques. The objectives take into consideration the following points:

-Study of various playing techniques, chords, harmony, music of your choice, rhythm, with reading of tablature, teaching structured around the repertoire you like, technique of developing the musical ear
- Discovery of the neck, notes and basic positions of open chords
- Left / right hand coordination and rhythm exercises for the right hand
- Learning of different pieces of your choice
- Left hand control exercises, speed and precision
- Learning arpeggios
- Work around muscle memory
- Learning improvisation, musical play with others
- Ear training: use your ears to find chords, melodies, sounds and techniques used
-Spend a pleasant moment of exchange, without unnecessary institutional pressure, while obtaining concrete results
-Understand and discover the many facets of an exciting and user-friendly instrument
- Benefit from personalized advice on your posture and certain pitfalls to avoid when starting alone
-Adjust and clarify your self-taught knowledge
- Learn tablatures / tabs & in English.

Note :
- Possibility to use the guitar available on site, during the test phase.
- As our teacher is also a singing teacher, it is possible to combine the two disciplines: guitar + vocal instrument, and to work on synchronization, style and accuracy.
- Possibility of offering this course (birthday, party, Christmas, event ...) to the person of your choice.

THE TEACHER :
Trained in Grande Ecole post-preparatory classes & Ivy League university in the United States, our teacher has specialized and has worked for more than 15 years, in Europe and North America, in the field, in renowned international public and private establishments, with careful pedagogy and methodology as the watchwords.

PLACES :
- Locations: Geneva-Lausanne-Friborg-Neuchâtel-Montreux-Bâle-Sion-Sierre-Morges-Bienne. But currently, only by videoconference in accordance with national recommendations on Covid. These sessions also seem to be perfectly unanimous since they have the advantages of direct (example: quality of the interaction), without its disadvantages (ex: loss of travel time), with additional advantages (ex: of notes on the chat, which can be reread afterwards). In this context, these videoconference sessions for which you have requested me, seem to arouse a certain enthusiasm (and a certain enthusiasm). At your request, I therefore continue to offer them.

Frederic

4.87

(84)

A conservatory graduate and music theory teacher gives piano lessons.
All styles combined (classical, rock, accompaniment piano, etc.)
Method suitable for the little ones 4-5 years old
First course without obligation.

Elisa

4.87

(84)

I offer private music theory tutoring lessons to students of beginner level of different ages Depending on the student's final goal we adjust the knowledge and skills that we focus on with the student. I mostly focus on classical music theory, but can also provide an introduction to jazz and pop music theory.

My goal as a teacher is to keep and increase the students' love for music as well as to offer necessary and appropriate knowledge/skills to keep the student challenged and of course enjoy the fun of music!

Sebastián

4.87

(84)

At my studio my students will not only learn how to play the piano, but they will receive a complete musical education in order to achieve their musical dreams. I will give all my best so everybody will get the tools for developing their own voice, helping them to master the instrument and teaching them all the theoretical knowledge they’ll need to make their particular personality shine. Openness, joy, dedication, creativity and passion for music are some of the things that you will find in the international environment of my studio. I care about who my students are and what they have to say to the world, and I will help them to develop it from the very first lesson.

In my class you will not only be able to receive piano lessons but also will learn to understand how the music works as a language. If the interest and the profile of the student goes in the direction of the purely classical music performance, the lessons will be focused on a deep and conscious piano technique development, practicing techniques, musical interpretation, history of music, history of the piano, applied harmony on the keyboard, analysis, and score reading by a method that I have developed for over 15 years of experience. And if the students wish, I can help them to prepare for the ABRSM exams and competitions as well. All this is aiming to achieve in a very practical and exciting experience the best results in the fastest way possible. But if the profile and the interests of the students goes on another way, I will give them all the tools they need to understand the language of music in depth, so they can find their own voice on the instrument. In that case the lessons will include contents of piano technique, score reading, applied harmony on the keyboard, composition, improvisation, musical arrangement, music production, recording techniques, jazz and pop music analysis and performance. Both programs can be combined depending on the focus and the profile of the student, or in case the student would like to go deeper in one of the previously mentioned subjects there is the opportunity to take an independent course of specialization on the desired topic. At the end of the semester every student will perform at the winter and summer concerts held every year and will have the possibility of making a recording session with the material worked during the term. With this, the student will not only be able to see his progress and work, but also will give him a direct experience of performing and working on a live or studio recording session, which is a fundamental part of the developing process of every musician.

Hope you can join and if so, I’ll be very happy to teach you!

Angel

4.87

(84)

I provide fun and personalized piano lessons, by adapting lessons based on your proficiency(beginner, intermediate or advanced), age group, and goals (hobby and leisure, grade exams). For beginners, I start with the basics of the piano and begin with teaching Tutor books. Not only will you be playing songs and pieces in no time, but you will be building a strong foundation of note-reading, music theory,sight-reading, technique, and more!
My approach is to teach very thorough foundations so that my students are well prepared for exams and performances such as Trinity, ABRSM, School/ church performances

Get in touch to start your lessons! ( Please note: There may be a waiting list)

Steve

4.87

(84)

Would you classify improvisation as composition or performance? Well actually it is both! When you improvise you are composing music on the spot, performing what you have made up at the same time as you have composed it.

For many people improvisation is a scary word and having to improvise in a group or band is an alarming prospect. However, this really does not need to be the case. As long as you have a basic knowledge of how to play your instrument you will be able to improvise. Once you know the principle of how chords are formed you will soon be improvising with ease.

The key to success is understanding chords. Once you know how chords are formed and know what notes make up a few chords you will be well on your way towards being able to improvise. We will, therefore, start by ensuring a firm knowledge of certain chords. After this we will progress to improvising a simple melody over the top of these chords. The next stage is to start using notes that are not in the chord. The process is then open ended with emphasis on developing the melody.

If you play a keyboard instrument you will be able to improvise your own pieces and be able to entertain your friends at a moments notice. On the other hand if you play in a band or a group you will be well equipped to do a real 'jam' session.

Whether you play a single line instrument (flute, saxophone, trumpet, violin etc.) or keyboard instruments, this class is for you.

Shubha

4.87

(84)

Hii, I'm a Professional Music Tutor. I teach Hindustani Classical Music Vocal and Music Therapy Which improves vocal cords and Singing Voice and also teaches Bollywood songs,Thumri, Dadra, Ghazal, Light Classical Music etc. I have 7 years teaching experience in online platform. My Bachelor's & Master's degree has completed in Hindustani Classical Music Vocal. I teach all ages students. From Beginners to Advanced Level. Interested students contact me.

Teaching method: My teaching method is very simple. I start with the pronunciation of 'SA' by getting you accustomed to Tanpura, eventually moving to other swaras. Then go Music Therapy Which improves vocal cords and singing voice. Then go advanced training Hindustani Classical Music Singing With Rhythm and Taal session and Thumri, Dadra, Ghazal, Light Classical Music, Bollywood songs etc. that's students choice. I have designed a very simple customized syllabus, which should meet the expectations of any beginner to advanced and Professional level singers.

Thanks,

Andrea

4.87

(84)

Hello! I've been teaching nonstop for over 10 years, and I'd love to tell you what a class with me offers:

100% personalized approach: The first step is to define your goals. Learning for pleasure? Preparing for entrance exams? Or taking the professional leap? I'll adapt the methodology, curriculum, and even the repertoire to your goals.

Dynamic environment (without losing rigor): Relaxed but demanding classes, where practical methods (and my irremediable sense of humor) prevail.

Hearing + Musicality + Analysis: We'll work on listening, understanding, and analyzing your musical references. The goal: for you to make artistic decisions with confidence and feel music as your own.

No stylistic biases: For me, all music is valid. We'll explore everything from classical to electronic, using each style to work on key aspects: melody, harmony, production... We'll even explore genres you're unfamiliar with together!

Important! I balance classes with concerts and projects. Although you're my priority, I appreciate the occasional flexibility to reschedule (only when strictly necessary).

If you like this approach, write to me! Learning music is an exciting journey, and I'd love to be your guide.

Gabriele

4.87

(84)

EN: Discover the basics of music theory and solfeggio. With personalized classes, you'll learn to read and understand musical notation, develop a sense of rhythm and intonation, and acquire the skills to analyze musical pieces. Ideal for beginners and those looking to delve deeper into music theory in a practical and accessible way.

ENG. Discover the basics of music theory and solfège! With personalized lessons, you'll learn to read and understand musical notation, develop a sense of rhythm and pitch, and gain skills to analyze musical pieces. Ideal for beginners and those who want to deepen their knowledge of music theory in a practical and accessible way.

Eto

4.87

(84)

Piano Classes: From the first notes to advanced repertoire, I tailor lessons to your level and goals — classical, pop, or even improvisation.

Jazz Voice Classes: Discover the freedom of jazz singing! Learn vocal technique, phrasing, interpretation, and improvisation in a relaxed, expressive way.

🧒 All ages and levels welcome – children, teens, and adults!
💬 Lessons can be in English – and I'm happy to adapt to your pace and style.

Let’s explore music together and make learning both fun and inspiring!

John

4.87

(84)

I teach online via Zoom, using software which allows you to see the exact keys I'm playing on my keyboard.

My teaching method is to focus on whatever type of music the student loves most, and to build from there. I believe that many people give up their dream of playing an instrument simply because they aren't inspired enough, so my goal is to instill a love for music, whatever that means personally for each individual student.

Everyone learns differently and has their own pace and rhythm. I have some students who like to have a regular weekly or biweekly lesson, and others who just get in touch once in a while when they have digested the previous lesson and feel ready to build on it. Whatever the case, I am very flexible and we can figure out what works best for you.

A bit about me:

Originally honing my skills on the British jazz scene and holding residencies in restaurants and bars around the country, I then went on to tour the world playing on cruise ships, hotels and festivals. I returned to London to complete my master's in jazz piano at the Guildhall School of Music, and during this time performed regularly at Ronnie Scotts, The Vortex and many other venues across the UK. I then spent two years in South America learning about salsa and Cuban music. I now mainly work as a transcriber, writing sheet music for all instruments including full Big Band scores. I have also worked extensively in musical theatre, most recently as musical director for 'Jersey Boys', and on the first US national tour of 'Summer: the Donna Summer Musical'. The video shown below is from my stint playing and directing 'After Midnight', a show set to the music of the Duke Ellington Big Band.

Giuseppe

4.87

(84)

Classical music has evolved over more than a thousand years into a rich and complex art — one that requires not only passion, but also trained listening and understanding.

In these personalised one‐on‐one lessons, you will develop your ear through:

- Ear training based on integrated solfège and musical harmony

- Essential music theory

- Writing exercises and dictations, with clear guidance on techniques to master them

- Harmonic analysis of your repertoire and other universal or personally relevant pieces

These foundations will help you:

- Grasp the function of musical elements

- Gain a clearer and fuller understanding of music

- Improve your playing and musical memory

- Improve musical reading (from musical scores)

- Express music with clarity and confidence

Whether you are:

- An amateur with an intermediate or high level

- A musician aiming to go professional

...these lessons will help you connect more deeply with music, perform with greater accuracy, and enjoy it more than ever.

According to your musical level, I will guide you through basic daily exercises using a clear step‐by‐step method:

- Each exercise lasts from 5 to 15 minutes

- Essential to practise every day for maximum efficiency

- Not overly difficult, but requires a bit of perseverance (just 10 minutes a day) to obtain the best results

📍 Available online and in‐person in Paris (preferable). But a mix of both is also possible.
🎯 Contact me today to book your first lesson and start your personalised programme.

Those who reach a high level of harmony will be able to unlock the next level: Musical form. Analysis material for advanced students.

Lucio

4.87

(84)

This class is designed for conservatory students, private candidates and advanced musicians who need solid guidance in harmony, counterpoint and fugue, especially in preparation for exams and auditions.

We work on written exercises, stylistic correction and analytical understanding, with a clear method and step-by-step feedback. Particular attention is given to Renaissance and Baroque practices (modal counterpoint, species, tonal counterpoint, fugue), helping students understand why rules exist, not just how to apply them.

I have many years of experience teaching harmony and counterpoint, and several of my students have successfully passed conservatory composition exams thanks to this guided approach.

Lessons are adapted to the student’s level and goals, with a strong focus on clarity, consistency and practical results.