I am a true music nerd, and I teach guitar in a variety of diverse styles such as Rock, Jazz, Blues, Pop, and Latin/Bossa Nova. I have been playing music for over 20 years and have performed at local ... clubs, concert halls, and private events. I studied Guitar Performance at the University of Colorado with an emphasis on Popular and Jazz styles, and I have a Classical background on the Piano (training under the esteemed Suzuki Method). I have a deep appreciation for many musical styles and love sharing this passion with my students! My own outstanding teachers have inspired me to become an educator myself and pass along some key wisdom and musical tools. I am committed to developing your musicianship, but I also want us to be able to laugh at our mistakes, have fun, not take our egos so seriously, and cultivate a sense of humanity through music. Similarly, while there is absolutely a place for traditional music fundamentals, there is an equally important place for creative expression and imagination. In your guitar lessons with me, I will simplify difficult musical material for you and introduce you to new concepts in a non-intimidating way. We will also work on training your EARS so that you can better hear melodies, chords, rhythms – one of the most crucial aspects of musical learning. I hope to boost your self-confidence by fostering your strengths and showing you how to tackle your weaknesses. Finally, I would love to help you craft your OWN distinctive style and standout musical identity while you have fun exploring the guitar! read more

Hi, I'm Melissa, and I'm excited about the prospect of becoming your music teacher! I teach guitar lessons to all levels in diverse styles, from Rock/Pop to Jazz/Blues. First inspired by 60s/70s Rock ... and 90s Alternative Rock, I acquired my first guitar (an electric!) and began lessons when I was 14 years old. After attending several Summer Jazz Camps, I developed an interest in Jazz/Latin/Blues music and studied Guitar Performance at the University of Colorado. Music is an immense part of how I make sense of the world. It is truly a rare “universal language” that speaks to us and transforms us, regardless of our disparate backgrounds. Music stirs up something ineffable within us, and through it, we can communicate that which eludes speech. We can give a voice to our nuanced experiences, and share that voice in order to connect with others. I also play the Piano and enjoy singing and working on harmonies and creative arrangements of classic songs. I have had some exceptional musical mentors that have inspired me to tutor/teach, and my goal is to help you unlock the guitar wizard (and overall musician) that lies within you!read more