![]() ![]() Bret even taught me to overcome one of my biggest fears… singing. Bret has taught me how to write my own music and record at home with the program Garage Band. I’ve learned how to practice in a way that is fun, engaging and efficient. We have explored all the different genres from country, rock, blues, classical and many more helping me to learn and strengthen all different techniques from finger picking, rhythm and lead guitar. Bret’s knowledge of guitar, theory and ability to teach has transformed my relationship with my guitar. Bret has far exceeded my expectations on so many levels. I learned that just because someone can play well doesn’t mean they can teach. As an adult, I returned to lessons several times but would stop within a couple of months because I couldn’t find a teacher who could meet my needs or keep me motivated. As a kid, I took guitar lessons but didn’t keep up with it. "I am in my late 50’s and started taking lessons from Bret a few years ago when I relocated to Arizona. Lastly, he’s very accommodating with scheduling, willing to make adjustments that work for you" - Joe Russomanno With his guidance, I’ve grown not only as a musician, but also in my appreciation for music and its various styles. The hands-on experience and immediate feedback are invaluable and can occur only through the kind of private, face-to-face dynamic that Bret offers. He’s very understanding with beginners and has a great sense of just when you’re ready for something more challenging. ![]() He tailors his teaching method to each individual student and what he or she wants out of the experience, from music theory to simply learning to play your favorite songs, and everything between. Moreover, he knows how to teach (something that, as a college professor, I think I can judge). That knowledge extends from how to play the instruments to a deep understanding of music and its history. Bret is everything you’d want in a teacher: incredibly knowledgeable, a great communicator, kind and understanding. Clearly, to stick with something for that long, it’s safe to conclude that it’s a positive experience. We started with guitar 15 years ago, then I transitioned to bass guitar along the way. "One of the best things that’s ever happened to me was to meet Bret and begin taking lessons from him. My appreciation & knowledge in music spans all genres. Some of my favorite bands/musicians: David Bowie, The Cure, U2, Joy Division, The Smiths, Frank Sinatra, Depeche Mode, Jane's Addiction, The Doors, James, Lou Reed, Love & Rockets, Bauhaus, Nick Cave, R.E.M., Gram Parsons, Gary Numan, Thin Lizzy - to name a few. I also studied Music Theory & Composition and received my Bachelor of Arts Degree from Arizona State University in 2000. Since then I've appeared on over 50 albums, played hundreds of shows while touring all over the United States & Europe (with bands like AFI, Peter Murphy, Concrete Blonde, The Mission UK, The Chameleons, New Model Army, Gene Loves Jezebel, Steve Roach, etc), published around 50 original songs and even have had some of my own music played on MTV. I've played in bands since my teenage years, hit the musical stage back in 1991 and signed my first recording contract at the end of 1999. I grew up in Chicago and moved to Arizona in the late 80s. Over the years, I've had hundreds of students, from age 5 through 75, walk through my door - some of them have went on to have successful musical careers (Jimmy Eat World), others have recorded their own solo albums, joined bands or played their favorite songs for family & friends. I've been teaching guitar and bass lessons at a music store that services the East Valley (Chandler, Tempe, Gilbert and Mesa) for over 18 years now. I'm a professional musician with over 30 years experience in performing, songwriting and teaching. ![]()
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