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About
I love to help people become better on the Guitar and the Bass.
It's a passion of mine. I've been teaching for 20 years! I have a book series
on Amazon called The Awesome Guitar Series.
I am active in helping other artists throughout the Twin Cities at
different venues.
Overview
Hired 30 times
Background checked
1 employee
23 years in business
Business hours
Sun10:00 am - 4:00 pmMon9:00 am - 9:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, Venmo, and Zelle.
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and value.
Excellent 4.9
11 reviews
5
91%
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9%
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Read reviews that mention:
Jennifer B.
Mar 7, 2016
•
Hired on Thumbtack
I am very happy with my first lesson with Phil Olson. I look forward to being his student as I learn to play the electric guitar and write music to my own songs.
Guitar Lessons
Frank D.
May 15, 2015
Hello! As an adult beginner seeking to learn the guitar, I can tell you several things I've discovered through experience. Things I can state with complete confidence.
1) Learning to play guitar can become overwhelming rather quickly! With all the information available on line, through books and from friends who say they can show you, it's quite easy to waste a lot of time learning stuff that really isn't productive over the long haul. Sure, you'll learn quickly at first because you're starting from zero, but once you learn the fundamentals, now what? This is where the majority of guitarists languish for years rehashing the same old stuff and never really improving. You need competent guidance!
2) Speaking of competent guidance, I've had numerous teachers who were really good guitar players but after a couple of months watching them play, you begin to wonder why YOU aren't getting much better. They're good, you're not and you're not getting much better. You're wasting precious learning time. Playing and teaching are 2 separate issues. Being able to relay information is probably more important than the ability to play when looking for a teacher. Phil can not only play but excels at explaining music concepts so they are readily accessible to students seeking knowledge. He was the first instructor I was exposed to who had a prepared, written game plan. A step by step road map to mastering the instrument that he explains patiently and intelligently. He loves both playing and teaching the guitar and it is abundantly clear when you talk to him about the subject. I have yet to have a session with him where I didn't feel that I was better after our lesson than I was before it, and that is the main reason one seeks out an instructor. So they can get better!
3) Phil treats lessons like a professional. He's never been late or surprised by my visits. He is always prepared and that's one of the things I like best. He makes me feel like I'm his only student and that MY progress is what's most important. I'm not just a time slot to fill or a check to grab and cash. No ego or showing off his skills for large chunks of the lesson. My skills and my improvement is what matters most and my entire lesson, from start to finish, is devoted to that.
4) Music theory is a bit spooky, especially for the beginning student. The problem isn't the complexity of the subject but how it's explained and mapped out. Yes it can be complex but in order to truly understand the instrument, you must understand the underlying concepts of music theory. What I liked most about my initial interview with Phil was his interest in what I was looking to accomplish. I was questioned about my goals. What did I want to accomplish. Learn music theory? Learn to read notation? Learn to just sit on the couch and play the blues or rock or pop music? A combination of some of it or all of it? He had a path for any/all of it tailored to my wants and needs. I'm thrilled with the path I chose and my progress on that path but I'm reminded by Phil that the plan can change as I grow and learn which is as it should be. Flexibility in learning means more options which also means constant learning without stagnation or hitting a wall that equates to more wasted time.
If you seek professional, intelligent and skillful instruction as it relates to the guitar, I urge you to seek out Phil and discuss your musical goals with him. He has helped me both understand music as well as the instrument. It's quite a thrill to honestly believe you are improving quickly at playing the guitar. I look forward to continuing to improve with Phil's guidance and honestly feel my goals are well within reach. Both my playing as well as my understanding of music is growing daily and I eagerly anticipate what the future holds for me and my guitar journey with Phil's assistance!
AwesomeGuitarTeacher's reply
Hi Frank,
Wow! Thank you... I'm really humbled by what you wrote. Don't know what else to say... just...Thank you!
Sincerely,
Phil
Dawn B.
Mar 10, 2015
Phil Olson is a talented musician and instructor. He is highly knowledgeable and professional in his approach toward learning. Phil exhibits skill in helping students reach their fullest potential by leading them to develop strategies that will last them throughout their music career. His patience and compassion meets the student where he or she is, and he tailors his teaching toward that goal. I would highly recommend Phil Olson as an exceptional guitar instructor!
Lee B.
Mar 10, 2015
My lessons with Phil are outstanding. He is able to help me develop my skills in a fun and low pressure manner. He is very willing to tailor the lessons to my interests and skill level.
Julie C.
Jan 7, 2016
Phil is "hand down" a wonderful person and TEACHER. My son took lessons from him. Excellent experience . Love his technique and patience. Wonderful person and family.
Credentials
Background Check
Philip Olson
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My lesson price is set once the student starts taking lessons from me. I will not increase that price... ever
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
When I'm working with a new student it really is a process of getting to know them and what they're looking to learn and customizing their lesson plan around that. There are some basics that will be taught. However, I believe in working with a student and their musical preferences..
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelors in music performance from Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter MN. I also have a recording engineering degree from Dick Grove Music formerly in Van Nuys / L.A California. I have been performing for over 40 years.
