Mission / Teaching Philosophy

The Mission

"Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens. If children hear fine music from the day of their birth and learn to play it, they develop sensitivity, discipline, and endurance. They get a beautiful heart." - Shinchi Suzuki

(True for adults as well)

Teaching Philosophy

Above anything else, the primary goal of music lessons with Kirk is to share the joy one receives from playing all styles of music.

Regardless of age, style, or playing level, lessons focus on providing the student with the tools one needs to play music well while having a great time doing so!  This is generally accomplished through two teaching methods, studying music fundamentals and learning songs.

All musicians need a mastery of the fundamentals.  Topics such as how to position your instrument, understanding how written music works, playing "in time", knowing all the notes on your instrument, scale and chord fingerings, where chords come from, and how chords and scales relate to each other are all frequently addressed.  This is balanced with learning songs and examining what makes them work.

Songs are broken down to identify "musical devices" that can often be found in other songs.  Chord progressions, melodic devices, and what scales were used for composing and improvising are discussed.  

The goal in utilizing these two approaches is to provide an equal balance between study and performance.

These teaching methods combined with a computer equipped lesson studio provide a unique lesson taking experience.   Among other things, the computer can be used to adjust  play-along recordings specifically designed for the individual's needs.  

Lessons are taught on a "one on one" basis in sessions ranging from a half hour (most common) to two hours.  For information regarding guitar lessons, please use the contact page and checkout the online teaching schedule.