Information About Rick - High Wycombe teacher -

(27 reviews)

Personal Description:

Welcome,

Firstly, I am a professional musician, I make my living from music; in teaching, composing and performing. In this you have my guarantee that I am dedicated to music, this means I am always researching new methods of teaching, increasing my knowledge and keeping on top of my game. My regular performances with numerous bands, including original, cover and session work insure I am always on top form. My strong academic background reflects my high degree of music theory knowledge and overall competence in any musical style.

My overall experience ranges Jazz Big bands, R'n'B pop groups, Jazz/fusion groups, Classical guitar, Pop cover bands and Funk groups. I have played at/for pizza express ('Baby Jazz' and Jazz club 'Pesantry'), Jazz Cafe, MHMT (and as a teacher), BBC 'One Show', Ealing Jazz festival and musicals - 'Chess' & 'Spring Awakening'. Through my years of teaching I have created a unique approach that combines coaching to discover the weaknesses and true aspirations of the pupil. I began my musical path studding rock and metal but eventually gravitated towards jazz, for its beauty and elegance. It is now the foundation for all my performing and teaching.

Currently performing with:
Bambus City Strut - Original funk/soul band
SoulShine - Function band, Weddings/corporate events etc
Rick Trio - Personal led Jazz trio, standards & originals

Tutoring Experience:

Currently teaching private 1-2-1 lessons of all ages - about 25 a week. Additionally to group lessons, I have tutored on the Montgomery Holloway Music Trust (2009) Jazz summer school, teaching guitar and coaching a small ensemble. I have learnt and applied all styles of music, this knowledge is always used in bands/groups I am in, to benefit and teach the whole, not just in 1-2-1 lessons. Experienced teaching children and adults, with the same patience and understanding.

I teach all guitar related styles - anything contemporary; Rock, Jazz, Metal, Pop, Funk etc. I also teach all levels of classical guitar.

Most of my students take exams, which I help them through. I am familiar with Rock School, Trinity and ABRSM (performance and theory) syllabuses.

My students have a 100% pass rate for all musical exams, while 90% have achieved a Merit or Distinction.

Tutoring Approach:

My specialty in Jazz acts as a foundation to teach pupils all styles of music, since the high technical, aural and theoretical background makes all styles of music easier to grasp and understand. I also combine a subtle use of coaching to focus on exact pupil needs, as well as creating a relaxed atmosphere. Specific areas covered in detail are:

Technique - Covering all aspects of left/right hand playing
Sound - Amplification/effects and use of 'tone'
Performance - Nerves and coping techniques
Theory - Chord and scale knowledge
Improvisation - Ways to unlock this useful skill
Structured Practice
Positive thought processes (inspiration/composing)
Tips of the profession
Phrasing - What to listen for to develop it
Concentration

I have had numerous teachers throughout the years, some good, some bad. This has given me great insight to 'how not to teach' - understanding the dynamic, respect and balance needed in a student/pupil relationship. This is considered very carefully for each student I have.

I usually travel to my students for their comfort and ease, if this is something you require please let me know. There is an additional charge though, to cover time lost and the petrol fee.

Finally, I work under contractual agreement, to protect both sides and to protect my profession. It is a standard Musicians Union contract with a few additions.