
Chris is a dynamic music teacher who believes in tailoring his approach to each individual student, fostering joy and curiosity in music. With a background in improvisation and collaboration, he incorporates creativity from the very first lesson, emphasizing the importance of play and exploration in musical learning. Chris offers lessons in banjo, electric bass, electric guitar, guitar, singer-songwriter, ukulele, and beginner to intermediate music theory. Book an interview with Chris now to begin your musical journey!
I believe that music is a language, that we learn through exploration and play. All my lessons are aimed at developing your deeper musical instincts and gaining an intuitive understanding of music. I also believe that teaching is an art that requires careful study. Each individual is different which means that good teaching requires empathy and imagination. It doesn't work to apply the same method to every student; instead my job as a teacher is to find the approach that will work best for you. What will help you the most right now? Music for me is tied up with creativity. I believe that improvisation is the heart of music: the freedom and joy that comes from play (we call it PLAYING an instrument, after all)! Lack of that joy is what causes so many to quit or lose interest in music. When music becomes a meaningless chore, it dies. Instead, I always try to put curiosity in the driver's seat: what are you interested in? What excites you about music? I believe that when we follow that drive to explore that techniques and theory come naturally. Joy and curiosity cause us to discipline ourselves, and through self discipline comes freedom.
I am a self taught musician who learned to play in the context of improvisation and collaboration. My siblings were learning instruments at the same time and before we knew what we were doing we were writing and recording music. I later attended Rosebud School of the Arts in southern Alberta, where I deepened my musical understanding through various choirs, vocal coaching and courses in music theory. I have performed on stages, in living rooms, and around crowded dinner tables. I've recorded two solo albums and an album with my wife as "The Lazy Sundays."
Chris is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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