Online Guitar Lessons - Student Guide

Teaching Philosophy & Background

I developed my online teaching approach during my time touring with the Killers. What began as a practical solution has evolved into my preferred teaching method, particularly since remote learning became mainstream during the COVID pandemic. Online lessons offer unmatched scheduling flexibility while maintaining educational effectiveness.

My mission is to help students develop their musical voice in a way that genuinely connects with audiences. This is accomplished through focused study of:

  • Musical melody and composition

  • Chord progression development

  • Understanding song structure and form

  • Integration of lyrics with musical elements

Teaching Methods & Resources

Video Support

After each lesson, students receive custom instructional videos that:

  • Reinforce concepts covered in the lesson

  • Can be reviewed multiple times at your own pace

  • Serve as ongoing reference material

Core Musical Development

The foundation of my teaching approach centers on two key elements:

  1. Musical Form Studies

    • Understanding composition structure

    • Learning how music creates meaningful experiences

    • Grasping the "big picture" of musical storytelling

  2. Sight-Reading Development

    • Mastering pitch recognition

    • Developing rhythmic precision

    • Building fundamental musical literacy

These skills lead to:

  • Faster song learning

  • Improved timing accuracy

  • Enhanced pattern recognition

  • Better musical comprehension

Progress Monitoring

Students must regularly submit recordings using their phone or computer. This practice:

  • Enables specific feedback on performance

  • Creates a documented progress timeline

  • Builds performance confidence

Required Equipment & Materials

Technology Requirements

  • Computer setup:

    • High-speed internet connection

    • Webcam

    • Quality microphone

    • Headphones (recommended)

  • Recording software options:

    • PC: Audacity (free)

    • Mac: GarageBand or Logic

  • Video platform account (Zoom or Skype)

Musical Equipment

  • Guitar ($100+)

    • Acoustic recommended

    • Electric with amp acceptable

  • Essential accessories:

    • Electronic chromatic tuner ($20)

    • Medium-gauge picks ($5)

    • Audible metronome ($20)

    • Kyser capo ($20)

    • Music stand ($10-20)

Learning Materials

  • Required textbook:

    • "A Modern Method for Guitar – Volume 1" by Berklee Press ($10)

    • Available through Amazon (physical) or iTunes Store (digital)

  • NoteFlight account (free) for homework assignments

Getting Started Checklist

  1. Acquire all required equipment and materials

  2. Set up your NoteFlight account

  3. Install and test recording software

  4. Provide your Zoom/Skype contact information

  5. Prepare a practice space with:

    • Good lighting

    • Minimal background noise

    • Proper equipment setup