A Supportive and Knowledgeable Instructor for all levels and ages

Ruben R.

I have been a professional musician for over 35 years with impressive touring and teaching credentials teaching guitar, voice, and music theory. My education was a performance degree in music from Cal State Los Angeles in 1991. I'm currently the guitar classroom and music ensemble instructor at New Roads School in Santa Monica. It is a top-rated school in music and academics. I am currently completing another degree in clinical psychology to enhance my performance coaching and life skills management skills. I love teaching and inspiring others to reach their dreams. There's nothing better than seeing some of your students go on to professional-level careers in music.

I have an incredible appetite for learning new things. Performance techniques, theory, psychological conditioning, composition, music production in analog and digital, and supportive non-judgmental instruction. I guide students in how to change negative thinking into effective positive framing that removes barriers.

My approach is comprehensive but not complex. I believe you will experience all aspects of learning to play well by understanding music as a whole. These include understanding harmony, phrasing, physical conditioning, and psychological skills to help overcome stage fright and anxiety while working on technical aspects of playing. I tailor lessons to those who may not be interested in reading music or not becoming a soloist. Still, the building blocks of creating competent music include understanding patterns and developing your ears and rhythm skills. I will provide you with an approach that helps you reach your goals to become proficient.

Please reach out and ask me as many questions as you like. I love talking about music!