
Michael, with over 25 years of experience, offers lessons in classical guitar, electric bass, electric guitar, and ukulele, as well as music theory and appreciation. With a passion for inspiring students, Michael focuses on making each lesson enjoyable and engaging, whether teaching beginners or advanced musicians. He emphasizes professionalism, punctuality, and strong communication with both students and parents. Fluent in English, Michael provides in-home, studio, and online lessons, ensuring flexibility and accessibility for his students. Book an interview with Michael now to begin your musical journey!
With over 25 years of teaching experience, my confidence in my abilities has grown steadily. When working with beginners, especially children, my focus is on making every lesson enjoyable and engaging to nurture a genuine passion for the instrument. I want my students to eagerly anticipate each lesson. For more advanced and older students, I maintain an open mindset, carefully listening to their goals and aspirations. Teaching transcends mere knowledge transfer; it's about inspiring. Maintaining professionalism is equally paramount to me. Punctuality, a professional appearance, and preparedness are matters of pride for me. Establishing a strong rapport with both the student and their parents is also an essential aspect of my teaching approach.
My education in music began at the age of 13 with my first private guitar teacher. At 16 I began to work as a student-teacher. My mentor encouraged my love for music and guided me through a 2-year guitar pedagogy course that had me teach several students per week while also achieving a Grade 5 level in classical guitar. After high school, I attended Malaspina University College to study Jazz music. After 3 years at Malaspina, I was offered a teaching position at the Powell River Academy of Music where I taught for 10 years before moving to Montreal in 2009.
I have a wide stylistic knowledge and a level of experience that sets me apart from most guitar teachers. At the busiest time of my career, I had between 50 -60 students and sustained that number for several years. My involvement in community choirs has made me a competent vocalist. I record and produce albums, perform live, and have toured and I am also able to repair and maintain my instruments.
Michael 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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