Introduction: The lessons here are unique and quite unlike any other alternative in the Ithaca area. They are tailored to each student’s specific needs and desires about what they want to be able to do on the guitar. Check out the student testimonials here:
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
“Dennis is really encouraging, and he follows exactly what my goals are and teaches me relative to those goals. He makes things really easy, attainable and approachable, not intimidating. I have learned an incredible amount in a short amount of time and can play so much music now.” – Frank D.
“Dennis is an outstanding teacher. I have found him to be very knowledgeable, patient, and fun to work with. His teaching method is very effective, in that weak spots become apparent, without the student being discouraged. A plan to improve is mapped out which is also very effective. There are no shortcuts, but the hard work pays off. The great thing is, I am having a blast while getting better!” – Dave F.
“My son Nial is learning so much faster now with Dennis than he was with his former teacher. “- Angie B.
“Dennis is wonderful at helping me accomplish the goals I’ve set for myself and I highly recommend him as a music teacher. Although I’m not a guitar student, I’ve had Dennis work with me to help develop my skills with jazz. He makes lessons both interesting and challenging yet never leaves me feeling discouraged or feeling that that something is too difficult. I love that he gives me many strategies for learning new pieces, for developing my ear, and for improving my competence as a jazz musician (rhythmically, technically, harmonically, etc). I especially like that everything we work at gets applied in the context of playing real tunes – nothing is ever given in isolation without going on to the application of the skill during the lesson. I’ve been working with Dennis for 3 years now and continue to look forward to each lesson with him. “- Michele G., professional musician
“When I first came to Dennis I knew a lot of things (chords, picking, soloing techniques) but I didn’t know how to put any of it together, and I had so many bad habits, it was horrible! I couldn’t play with anybody because I couldn’t play songs in rhythm. Three years later, with steady guidance from Dennis, I have my own band and have been going to jam sessions. My soloing still needs work, but overall I’m having a great time on the guitar.” – Dan W.
I love seeing students grow musically. It's not just about the guitar, it's about their whole life. Music enriches their lives as well as the lives of their friends and family. They even network with each other in the lessons, sometimes making plans to jam without me, and in some cases even form bands together.
I look at my job not just as a teacher but as a coach, trainer, and mentor as well.
Call me and you can set up a free trial lesson to see how I do things.
Look forward to hearing from you.
