Why should I take lessons from you rather than one of the many other guitar instructors in person or online?
-I bring more than 35 years of professional performing, recording, songwriting, and teaching experience to every lesson. Unlike many instructors who primarily teach from academic training, my approach comes from decades of real-world experience as a working musician. Please listen to my work and visit my other websites (www.jakeandrews.com, www.youtube.com/jakeandrewsmusic) to learn about me as a musician.
Over the years, I have performed and recorded with legendary artists including Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Albert King, Jimmie Vaughan, Eric Johnson, Gary Clark Jr., and Susan Tedeschi. These experiences allow me to teach not only guitar technique, but also musicianship, improvisation, songwriting, performance skills, and what it takes to play music in real-world situations.
Most importantly, every lesson is customized to the individual student. Whether you're a complete beginner learning your first chords or an experienced player looking to improve your soloing, timing, or stage presence, I tailor lessons to your goals and musical interests. Rock n’ Roll is supposed to be fun, right?! I love meeting people and have students all over the world!
Do you teach beginners?
-Yes. Many of my students are beginners and range in age from 20’s to 70’s.
What genres of music do you teach?
-My guitar playing foundation comes from Blues, Rock and Roll, 60’s Soul, Rhythm and Blues, all types of Roots Music. This has given me a firm background to playing and understanding all styles of music. My students’ interests span rock, classic rock, blues, singer-songwriter material, country, and more, along with learning the songs and artists they love most. Lessons are always tailored to each student’s goals and musical interests. In many cases, students choose the songs they want to learn, and I use those pieces as a foundation for teaching guitar technique, music theory, rhythm, improvisation, and overall musicianship.
Do you teach kids?
-At this time, I only teach kids that have a strong aptitude and desire for guitar. I typically only teach kids over the age of 14. Contact me if you’re child is interested in lessons and this applies to them.
Do you teach intermediate and advanced students?
-Yes. Many of my more advanced students are performing musicians themselves. My years of touring, recording, and performing allow me to help advanced students develop stronger technique, improvisation, tone, musicianship, and professional-level performance skills.
What should I bring to lessons?
-Please bring your guitar, pick and phone. If you have the choice between an acoustic and electric guitar, I would ask you to bring the electric as it can be more versatile. That said, if you want to play an acoustic, bring it! We always record a five minute recap video of the lesson so you can have something to work with when you’re practicing at home.
Can you help me with becoming more of a performer than just a guitar player?
-Yes. I am a vocalist, songwriter and have many years of experience performing as a solo artist. In addition, I have released four solo albums since the age of 19 and played on numerous other artists’ recordings since the age of 12. I can help you become more of a stage performer rather than just a bedroom guitarist. I can also help you work on your own songwriting, arrangements, etc.
What should I do if I don’t have a guitar yet?
-I refer all of my students to Rock n Roll Rentals (http://rocknrollrentals.com/). You can usually rent an electric guitar for $15-$20 per month. While renting, this will give you time to look for a guitar to purchase that will work for your budget and goals.
Where are you located?
-I am in located in Central Austin near Mopac and Enfield.
Do you teach virtually?
-Yes! I began teaching virtually in 2020 and have found that is very effective for students. Some found it so effective that they never came back to in person lessons! Feel free to reach out to me to inquire about lessons via Zoom.