Banjo, Dobro, and Guitar Lessons:

I teach banjo, guitar and dobro lessons from beginner to advanced levels in person in Calgary, Alberta, Canada or online through live video platforms.

Regarding banjo, I teach both bluegrass (3-finger Scruggs style) and old-time banjo (clawhammer).

My approach is to HAVE FUN, enjoy the learning process, and create a non-judgemental atmosphere for my students. Rather than over-focus on written materials, my approach is to teach music as an auditory and oral tradition: passed down by listening and imitating each other. More akin to speaking a new language, or a dialect of your existing language. Written & video materials will be provided as reference and guides.

We can focus on:

• Fundamental techniques and refinement, to give you a solid foundation and/or make what you already play sound better and better.

• Basic theory: chords and their function, song structure, playing in different keys, etc.

• Rhythm & Groove: Playing in time, and with different feels for different genres or traditions.

• Ear training: finding melodies and chords by ear, and identifying when chords change in a song.

• Improvisation: learning to play off the beaten path, play off of pre-existing melodies, and find your own voice!

• Jamming: the skills required to have fun at bluegrass or old-time jam!

My current rates are $50 CAD / 1 hour lesson