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Biography
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How long have I been playing the guitar, and in what contexts?
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I have been playing the guitar for over 30 years. I play different styles, mainly rock lead and rhythm guitar, but I also play folk guitar, bass guitar, jazz and classical guitar.
I have played in bands, at shows and various functions (such as weddings, and parties) playing electric, acoustic and bass guitar.
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What are my aims?
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My aims are: to be the very best guitarist I can be, in as many styles as I can be;
to be an excellent guitar tutor, working with educational establishments and privately so that all of my students are good technical and inspirational musicians;
to create excellent teaching materials that are useful for all guitarists, especially in the rock field; and to be a top performer and musician, working in live and
studio environments.
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Details of teaching experience
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I began teaching the guitar part time in July 1995. Since then I have taught thousands of lessons. I became a full time guitar tutor and performer in October 2002, and now on an average school week I teach guitar to well over 100 students.
The styles I teach include electric lead and rhythm guitar to advanced level, classical guitar to advanced level, and bass guitar to advanced level. I also teach some fingerpicking guitar and jazz guitar. I teach music theory as part of my practical teaching (it keeps it interesting that way!).
I also teach notation and tablature sight reading. I am employed by Thurrock Music Services and Southend Music Services and I give lessons in several schools in these areas.
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On what basis am I "qualified" to teach guitar?
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I have attained Electric Guitar Grade 8 from the London College of Music and Media, and Classical Guitar Grade 6 "Merit" from the London College Of Music and Media.
These qualifications are accredited with the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA): Grades 6 to 8 are set as National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Advanced level 3.
I have taught many lessons encompassing many different styles. A number of my students and ex-students now play in bands, some play in their school classes and assemblies, and some play in church worship bands. I'm glad to be able
to say that my teaching has contributed to people's lives and in some cases has made quite a difference. I have lots of experience in playing live in bands and musicals, and I pass this experience on to my students.
I am involved in music "full time", in teaching, performing, and recording. I have achieved a good level of general education, with a BSc Hons degree in Computing.
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CD releases
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In December 2006 I released "The Moment", my first solo CD. Four or so years in the making, it's a concept album about some important moments in my life, and moments in time that have impacted me personally.
Its style is progressive/experimental rock.
I have also played on 2 CDs released by Time Will Tell, "Pushed For Time" and "There Is", both progressive albums.
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