
Francis is a passionate music teacher specializing in classical guitar, electric guitar, ukulele, ear training, jazz improvisation, and beginner to intermediate music theory. With over 20 years of experience, he believes that music is a universal language and aims to help students understand why music connects with us on a deeper level. Francis emphasizes the importance of building a strong technical foundation while encouraging students to explore their musical creativity. His teaching philosophy revolves around the idea that musical instruments serve as bridges to bring out the music within us and to share that music with the world. Whether you're interested in classical guitar, electric guitar, ukulele, or delving into music theory and jazz improvisation, Francis is committed to helping you develop your musical skills and understanding. Book an interview with Francis now to start your musical journey!
I believe that music is for everyone. There lies inside of us that tingling sensation which makes us nod our head or stamp our feet whenever we hear the beat of a song going on. All of us naturally have that gift, the art of music. Through teaching, I deliberately see to it that the students will not only dwell on the technical necessities needed to play the instrument, but to have an understanding as to why music connects with us. Musical instruments serve as bridges in bringing out the "music" inside of us. To share that music to everyone and to the world, that is what I encourage my students to learn using various musical instruments. Learning the fundamentals are vital for us to share the experience we call art.
I earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies Major in Guitar in Berklee College of Music, graduating as a Summa Cum Laude. At Berklee, I studied with teachers like David Newsam, David Gilmore, Jane Miller, Amanda Monaco, and Bruce Bartlett. I attended various masterclasses and guitar clinics about Blues Guitar, electric guitar techniques, and basic pro-audio seminars.
I learned how to play the guitar in 2003. But I started playing music professionally in 2012. Since then, I have been playing regularly in music lounges and events such as weddings, birthdays, and corporate parties. Pursuing excellence, I felt the need to further my studies. I enrolled with the best guitarist in the city I lived then, Ethan Ventura. After a few years of learning from him, I applied and was gladly accepted at Berklee College of Music's Online Program, where I earned my Bachelor's degree in music. I continue to develop my skills by attending masterclasses and guitar clinics.
Francis 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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