Seattle Guitar Lessons
Intermediate Through Advanced Guitar Lessons in Seattle, WA
A Brief Introduction
Nicholas Rausch
Notes From the Instructor
I offer beginner through advanced guitar lessons for all ages. Jazz guitar is my passion, however most styles are covered including most genres of rock, pop, blues, funk, and jazz. Music theory and ear training can be integrated into guitar lessons or taught separately. I realize that not all students learn the same way, and in fact, almost all are unique. Additionally, everyone wants to learn different material or aspects of the instrument. For example, one student may want to learn how to improvise solos whereas another may just want to learn a few chords to sing over. Thinking about getting "prepped" for music school or college? We can also do that. All lessons are tailored to each student's individual needs. I take pride in having elevated many students from complete beginner to impressive levels of playing for a number of years now. Please take a moment to review some of my former students generous testimonials.
Will I Have to Read Music?
Even though learning to read musical notation can take a while at first, it is generally the fastest way to learn any material later on and is extremely beneficial for all musicians. I integrate learning this skill into most lessons but only if the student is willing. Is reading 100% necessary? If you plan on going to a music school or college, want to be a studio musician, want to be hired by working bands, or want to write down your musical ideas to explain to other musicians, then the answer is "yes." If these situations don't apply to you, then I believe you can get by without the skill. Chords, scales and songs can be learned other ways through charts, diagrams and watching instructor demonstrations, but you'll probably find yourself wanting to learn how to read music.
First Guitar for Lessons
There are many things to consider when buying a guitar for yourself or a young aspiring musician: Size, pricing, quality, appropriateness to genre, etc. Choosing the right instrument for young, first time students is the most critical. It doesn't help that misleading advertising and sometimes even "pushy" salesmen may steer you in the wrong direction. Larger instruments can be very difficult for young students to handle and pressing the strings down to the fretboard can be uncomfortable for anyone, especially a child with tiny hands! This can be discouraging and lead to an instrument collecting dust in a closet.
Feel free to contact me and we can discuss what kind of guitar will suit the student's needs, certain qualities to look for in a guitar, and any accessories that may be needed.
“My guitar is not a thing. It is an extension of myself. It is who I am."
~Joan Jett
