Learn from an experienced, professional teacher.
I cannot learn something without wanting to immediately begin sharing what I know. That's what inspired me to begin teaching, and it continues to drive me today.
My credo is, "Take fun seriously." There is a reason we say that we "play" music; it is meant to be entertaining, for the listener and the performer. I know you want to learn to play an instrument so that you have one more pleasure in your life, and not to take up a new profession. But I also assume the highest potential in my students. If something is worth learning, it's worth learning well. My goal is for people to say to each other, "There seem to be a lot of good guitarists coming out of the Madison area. What's in the water?" My bottom line: Whatever your personal objectives, it is my job to discover them and help you meet them, whether you're interested performing at the campfire or the concert hall.
If you do not live nearby, we can learn together through online chat via FaceTime, Skype, or Google Hangout. I have openings during early daytime CST, which means if you're from overseas and you're an English speaker, I would be happy to schedule you.
Here's what others have said about their experience:
My credo is, "Take fun seriously." There is a reason we say that we "play" music; it is meant to be entertaining, for the listener and the performer. I know you want to learn to play an instrument so that you have one more pleasure in your life, and not to take up a new profession. But I also assume the highest potential in my students. If something is worth learning, it's worth learning well. My goal is for people to say to each other, "There seem to be a lot of good guitarists coming out of the Madison area. What's in the water?" My bottom line: Whatever your personal objectives, it is my job to discover them and help you meet them, whether you're interested performing at the campfire or the concert hall.
If you do not live nearby, we can learn together through online chat via FaceTime, Skype, or Google Hangout. I have openings during early daytime CST, which means if you're from overseas and you're an English speaker, I would be happy to schedule you.
Here's what others have said about their experience:
"Lyle has been doing a wonderful job with my son. My son tends to lose focus a lot, but Lyle has never been cross or sharp with him. We are very pleased with the progress we are making." Nina H.
"Excellent teacher; totally happy!
He's very knowledgable! His teaching is wonderful! He cares for the student's learning and goals!" Hortensia G.
"Very cool and has immense patience for my 6 year old son. The right guitar teacher for my son who has questions nonstop." Rama S.
Contact me to request a price quote and have your questions answered.
Connecting with real humans.
In an age when video instruction can be accessed in a few clicks, and music teaching apps can be installed on your phone, what is the value of personal, face-to-face instruction?
First, I don't regard YouTube and other modern resources as competitors. In fact, I frequently incorporate them into my own lessons. I also encourage students to explore other sources of knowledge as freely as they wish. I am just a coach, not a gatekeeper.
The most readily apparent advantage of taking private lessons is human interaction. I learned many valuable lessons when trading ideas with other musicians, even when just hanging out and talking shop. When sitting in front of a live person, you can have your questions answered instantly, and your technique corrected or improved by someone who is able to watch you play.
There is also a social element in private lessons. When you join an instructor's studio, you are part of a club. Through masterclasses, events, and recitals, you are exposed to others who share your interests.
The state of modern humanity, constantly indoors and staring at a screen, has become a popular subject of criticism. You know you should get out and do something real. Why not take lessons?
First, I don't regard YouTube and other modern resources as competitors. In fact, I frequently incorporate them into my own lessons. I also encourage students to explore other sources of knowledge as freely as they wish. I am just a coach, not a gatekeeper.
The most readily apparent advantage of taking private lessons is human interaction. I learned many valuable lessons when trading ideas with other musicians, even when just hanging out and talking shop. When sitting in front of a live person, you can have your questions answered instantly, and your technique corrected or improved by someone who is able to watch you play.
There is also a social element in private lessons. When you join an instructor's studio, you are part of a club. Through masterclasses, events, and recitals, you are exposed to others who share your interests.
The state of modern humanity, constantly indoors and staring at a screen, has become a popular subject of criticism. You know you should get out and do something real. Why not take lessons?
More than just lessons.
When you enroll with me, you enjoy access to:
Lessons, masterclasses, and recitals are included with all lesson packages.
- regular one-on-one lessons
- masterclasses (students observe each other in mini-lessons)
- recitals
- events (holiday events, activity nights)
- short-term classes (guitar ensemble, technology classes, improv clinics, etc.)
Lessons, masterclasses, and recitals are included with all lesson packages.