Information About Jamie - Stevenage teacher

Personal Description:

I am a committed and reliable guitar, bass, drums and piano tutor with many years of experience. My musical knowledge is vast not only in terms of playing, performing, and teaching, but in terms of music history and the backgrounds of many genres and techniques within music. I like to give my students a wide and varied understanding of the subject, and not necessarily just a fast track to being a guitarist (as ultimately the guitarist will lack in other important musical traits e.g. learning to improvise and recognise a purpose for playing something as opposed to just playing it for the sake of playing it). I have a degree in Music from Plymouth University and have written, performed, and taught music frequently for more than 10 years now.

Tutoring Experience:

I have taught many students ranging in ability and age (aged 6 - 60, and grades 1 - 8) and have found the most appropriate way to teach the student depending on this. Musically, I am most familiar with jazz, blues, pop, rock, and classical, although in the event of being unfamiliar with something I have the resources and capabilities to learn and relate to my students fast and conveniently. I also have experience teaching in primary and secondary schools and have a full CRB check.

Tutoring Approach:

My approach to tuition differs greatly depending on the student. For example, I would try to relate the material to a 10 year old in a very casual and step-by-step way, using methods similar to school teaching and grasping most information from books and my own catalogue of material. When it comes to teaching an older individual, I find that the most appropriate way to enable them to structure their practice has to be catered to them in order for any rehearsing to be achieved whilst maintaining a career or busier lifestyle. I am realistic with goals yet remain ambitious to ensure that the student gets the most out of me for their money as possible. This includes doing research and attaining music scores and other resources in my free time, free of charge. This guarantees a prepared and polished lesson plan every time.

If one seeks to learn an instrument as a hobby, I would consider teaching them to play pieces by their favourite artists/bands who inspired them to learn the instrument. If one was looking for a more serious commitment then I would also suggest more in-depth theory of guitar playing and grade books. For any level of guitar it is imperative to explain the theory of chord formations and scales as this is fundamental to learning. If composition, production and technology are interests of the student, we would discuss creative ideas and preferences. Most importantly, learning music is supposed to be a fun yet challenging hobby and perhaps even a career for many of you!