Biography
After graduating high school, I enrolled at Penn State University. While there, I continued to hone my musical skills. I took lessons from accomplished jazz guitarist Michael Dennis. I was also playing in several bands, gigging all around State College. Four years later I graduated with a B.S. in Molecular Biology. The problem was, I didn’t love science, I loved music.
I grew up in a small town in western Pennsylvania. As a teenager, I saw MTV for the first time and fell in love with the guitar. At age 16, my mom finally got me one and I began lessons at a local music store. Some friends and I formed a band and we began playing local events.
In 1993, I went to Hollywood, CA to attend Musicians’ Institute (GIT). Great players come from all over the world to attend this prestigious music conservatory. While there, I opened up my musical mind, playing many new styles of music. I had always been a rocker, but now I was playing blues, funk, jazz, country, big band, and classical. After a very challenging and intense year, I graduated with honors.
Returning from California, I settled in Pittsburgh, PA, teaching and gigging for the next eight years. In 2002, I moved to Jacksonville to join a band called the WELL. We enjoyed success for a few years, then broke up.
Since then, I have been teaching guitar full time. I also write and record my own music, occasionally performing at open mics and other guest spots. All told, I have been playing guitar for 35 years and teaching guitar for 25 years.
Testimonials
‘I have been taking acoustic guitar lessons from John for a few years now and he has taught me so much. From blues to pop to Irish melodies to folk and Americana to acoustic rock, John’s experience runs the full spectrum. And did I mention music theory — he teaches that as well!’
‘John not only taught me how to play guitar, he taught me why music works the way it does. I gained the confidence to be able to play many different styles, with many types of musicians. John provided me with the foundation to continue to grow as a guitarist for the rest of my life. When we had finished our lessons, I loved music and guitar more than when we started.’
‘I was 40 years old and had no musical training or talent. It is scary to learn something new at that age. John made this easy and fun. It has changed my life. Music now gives me more enjoyment than any activity I have ever been involved with. Thank you!’
‘Having John as an instructor has been one of the best experiences I’ve had. He really leveled me up fast. I was a decent beginner, in that I could play bar chords and some really basic melodies. I was using books, online videos, friends, and self-assessment for instruction.
In my first session, John was able to diagnose the real challenges I was facing (not what I thought they were AT ALL) and provided a methodology for getting me into good habits. He’s very clear and professional in sessions.’
‘John’s teaching was my first exposure to the guitar and I’m still playing 12 years later. His flexible teaching style gave me a solid grounding in music theory while allowing me to bring new songs and ideas to incorporate into our weekly lessons. John was always meticulously prepared and went the extra mile drawing on his deep knowledge of the instrument and presenting some bit of insight or new material to clarify questions I raised about a difficult concept. And his patience and encouragement ensured I always felt comfortable to make mistakes and just express myself.’
‘John is not only a talented guitarist, but is also extremely dedicated to his students. Under his instruction, I quickly progressed from beginner to being able to play a wide range of songs, understand the fundamentals of music theory, and improvise as part of an ensemble. He was also patient, encouraging, and he pushed me to excel at my instrument. He’s a consummate professional.’
Curriculum
Basics If you're a beginner, I can teach you the basics. We'll start with technique, chords, and basic tablature. I have successfully taught a wide range of beginner students -- from 5 years old to 70 years old.
Songs I can teach you the songs you want to play, no matter the style of music. I have over 6,000 pieces of guitar TAB. And if I don't already have the music, I can transcribe it for you.
Theory I love teaching music theory. Chord construction, understanding key signatures, the modes, etc. I can give you an understanding of all these elements of music.
Songs I can teach you the songs you want to play, no matter the style of music. I have over 6,000 pieces of guitar TAB. And if I don't already have the music, I can transcribe it for you.
Improv Improvising is an important part of most guitar styles. I can teach you about scales and how to select the right one for each situation. We'll learn licks, to build your vocabulary. And the best way to get better at improv is to do it, so expect plenty of jamming.
Extras I teach more than just guitar. I can teach you bass. Also, since I am a singer, I can help you put together the guitar + vocal thing. It takes some time, but it can be done -- I'll show you how.
