Whether you want to play fingerstyle, with a pick (plectrum) or both, I can get you started with the basics using familiar songs, showing you techniques, and teaching the theory.

Using standard, drop-D and occasionally other alternate tunings, my guitar style is heavily influenced by John Renbourn, Bert Jansch, Paul Simon, Davy Graham, and James Taylor, with a bit of classical technique and repertoire thrown in for good measure. I love working with students at any level who want to learn how to build picking patterns and accompaniment for songs, play instrumental chord-melody arrangements, and increase their finger independence and theory knowledge along the way.

To hear a wide sampling of my fingerstyle renditions, check out some of my guitar demos.

So much to explore here! In addition to the melodies themselves, there are rhythmic techniques and modal theory that when learned, will open up the Celtic music world for you.

On bouzouki I primarily use GDAD tuning but can adapt for standard mandolin tuning.

On guitar I am a drop D and standard tuning player. (If you’re looking to go the exclusive DADGAD route, I might have to point you to another teacher!)

I love passing along and talking about the history of my favorite trad songs from Ireland, Scotland, England, and America. If you like what you hear on my albums and want to learn more about my style of singing, how I go about learning and arranging songs, and the theory behind them, we can schedule a one-on-one lesson or I can let you know when I'll be hosting another class or workshop on the subject.