Music Lessons in Scranton-Clarks Summit GuitarSteve.com
And The Winner Is...
1st Place
Brandon C. Clarks Summit
2nd Place
Jakob K. Clarks Summit
Brandon ran away with the contest combining a high attention to detail and and consistent preparedness week after week. Brandon burned from start to finish and was tough to catch once the contest got rolling. He put in intense amounts of practice and really embodied the spirit of this competition. Great job!
2nd Place was a toss up right up to the last two weeks before Christmas. We had about 15 students neck and neck but Jakob kicked it into overdrive the last few weeks and edged out the competition. I noticed a huge improvement in the last few weeks which was the deciding factor earning Jakob a well deserved spot at the top of the heap. Nice work!
There are a number of honorable mentions and you know who you are. The intent of running this contest was to encourage students to practice more. I'm happy to say that it worked like a charm.
Here's the link to the YoueTube video which contains the link back to this page.
Link to YouTube Most Improved Video. The link back to this page is right under the video playback screen. Please link back from Youtube. Sounds silly but I'm conducting a little experiment with this. Thanks.
All students are moving forward but some are really surging ahead.
Here's this week's top ten. 11-1 to 11-8
If you don't see your name here, pick up your axe and head to the woodshed. (Just a funky way of saying "go practice".)
Contestants in the lead in no particular order:
Matt B: Doing great with all the material, including classical guitar, rock soloing, improvisation.
Victoria D: Had a big light bulb moment and nailed the timing on the song she's been working on.
Regina V: When Regina practices she leaves everyone in the dust and she did that last week. Look out.
Brandon C: Oh my God!!! Talk about a massive improvement in a short time. Brandon sat there for about ten minutes and methodically built up an incredibly difficult phrase from very slow to warp speed. And played it perfect. Unflinching concentration.
Joey G: Unbridled enthusiam and has been logging in his practice all week. Taking this contest VERY seriously.
Chris C: I put Chris in this category because he did great during his lesson. Get practicing buddy, you've got the right stuff.
Angel K: Doing great as always and definitely in the top ten this week.
Ian J: Really starting to apply the Principles of Correct Practice for Guitar. Great job this week.
Jordan M: Working out some intricate fills and just keeps getting better and better.
Ryan W: Steady improvement earns Ryan a place on this list.
Again, if you do not see your name on this list then work hard and make sure you're on here next week.
Here's this week's top ten. 11-1 to 11-8
If you don't see your name here, pick up your axe and head to the woodshed. (Just a funky way of saying "go practice".)
Contestants in the lead in no particular order:
Matt B: Doing great with all the material, including classical guitar, rock soloing, improvisation.
Victoria D: Had a big light bulb moment and nailed the timing on the song she's been working on.
Regina V: When Regina practices she leaves everyone in the dust and she did that last week. Look out.
Brandon C: Oh my God!!! Talk about a massive improvement in a short time. Brandon sat there for about ten minutes and methodically built up an incredibly difficult phrase from very slow to warp speed. And played it perfect. Unflinching concentration.
Joey G: Unbridled enthusiam and has been logging in his practice all week. Taking this contest VERY seriously.
Chris C: I put Chris in this category because he did great during his lesson. Get practicing buddy, you've got the right stuff.
Angel K: Doing great as always and definitely in the top ten this week.
Ian J: Really starting to apply the Principles of Correct Practice for Guitar. Great job this week.
Jordan M: Working out some intricate fills and just keeps getting better and better.
Ryan W: Steady improvement earns Ryan a place on this list.
Again, if you do not see your name on this list then work hard and make sure you're on here next week.
Most Improved Contest for Fall 2011
Well, we're off and running for the "Most Improved" contest for the fall which will run from October through the end of November. The winner will receive a $100 cash prize. Depending on the number of entries we'll have a second place prize as well.
The whole point of this contest is to get everybody to practice and achieve great results. All music teachers struggle with trying to inspire and motivate students to excel. With years of teaching experience and thousands of lessons logged I have concluded that one of the best ways to inspire students is to use the prospect of hard, cold cash. Really cuts to the chase.
Now, many students will put in their best effort but only one can win the grand prize. That's the deal. So, with 25 contestants you have a 1 in 25 chance. I obviously don't want to end up with 1 really happy participant and 24 who feel they got gypped. I know it sounds corny, but if you practice really hard then you have already gained something from this contest. And that's the point: get students to practice more. Good luck to all. If all goes well we'll have another contest in the spring.
The rules are simple.
Contestants will be judged according to:
Preparedness
Practice
Attendance
Listening
Attitude/Enthusiasm
Pretty simple stuff, just practice and be prepared for your lesson. If you have to miss a lesson try to reschedule or make up the time. Work on listening during your lesson and keep the noodling to a minimum. A good attitude goes a long way so stay positive and interested while learning the instrument.
This contest is for all ages and is based on an individual student's overall improvement and not who plays the best. So, while it might seem that an older student who has taken years of lessons might have an advantage, this is not necessarily the case. I teach a few youngsters, kids 8 and 9 years old, who show great improvement just by holding and fretting the guitar correctly. That's just as big an improvement as a much older student perfecting a challenging electric guitar solo or classical piece. Plus, a $100 cash prize to a 25 year old, for example, can seem like a $1000 prize to a youngster. You ever see a kid freak out when they see a $100 bill? Now that's some serious motivation.
Here's our contestants:
Chris C: 8, Guitar, Scranton
"The Pride of South Side". Chris is the youngest student I have and probably the most fun to teach. Very enthusiastic and has a pretty good sense of humor. Currently working on a bunch of songs including Stand By Me, Yellow Submarine, and "Scrant-agueña " (a little take off of Malagueña). Always has a good attitude and is moving along nicely. A top tier contestant.
Angel K: 9, Guitar, Justus
This young lady just turned 9 in the summer and recently acquired a classical guitar. By 8 years old she already had experience playing and singing in public. Plays very well, just started a classical piece, and literally "sings like an Angel." It's astonishing to hear someone so young have such natural music ability. Looking to record her versions of Over the Rainbow and an acoustic Won't Get Fooled Again. That's right, a nine year old girl singing The Who. Awesome!
Joey G: 10, Scranton, Drums
This kid's a powerhouse behind the kit. Incredible sense of rhythm and natural ability. And, get this: HE PRACTICES!!! I'm already working on putting together the next "band" of students and I'm sure Joey will be the glue that holds it all together. Great ability, great attitude. And he's only 10!
Jakob K: 11, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Jakob has a wonderful family, is the oldest of 5 kids, has 2 great parents, an awesome grandma, and 2 killer dogs. I'm pretty sure Jakob knows the attack command and is just waiting for the right moment to sic them on me. Aside from that, Jakob reads music very well and is working on some Zeppelin, The Munsters Theme, and lots more stuff. Really good kid and pretty hilarious at times. Jakob is the perfect contestant for a most improved contest because he has a lot of untapped natural ability and he's a pretty smart kid to boot. When he puts his mind to it he's easily in the top 2 or 3 students I have. And he has one major factor to influence my decision: Killer Dogs!!! (ok, they're not really killer dogs...yet). LOL
Ian J: 11, Guitar, Clarks Summit
You know those kids who at a very young age are already smarter than most adults? That's Ian. This 11 year old is already a guitarist at heart, it's just in his DNA. He's one of those people who will always play music in some capacity and with Ian it'll be among his long list of accomplishments like: Famous Author, Astrophysicist, World Renown Guitarist, Senator, Mad Scientist and ultimately Supreme President of the Earth. Aside from that, he has a knack for picking very interesting, pretty obscure, but great songs. A lot of stuff I've never heard so it's always a treat to see what he's into each week. Actually he can probably go toe to toe with my most eclectic, much older student in this regard. (you know who you are... Sean G.) Always a challenge to keep up with Ian since he'll occasionally sit down and say, "Oh, I learned this myself". At which he proceeds to play a classical piece he's learned by himself. Great kid, keeps me on my toes.
Ryan W: 12, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Ryan's a relatively new student with a good practice routine and a good attitude. Ryan's got a competitive spirit and really focuses in on any new challenge I throw at him. Sets and achieves short term goals every week and had been progressing steadily. A guy like Ryan is a major concern for other contestants because of his steady improvement. Every week he gets a little better and that's the whole point of this competition.
Liam G: 14, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Liam is hands down the funniest student I teach. Witty fella and always up for some horsing around. An avid horror movie fan and an actual member of the KISS Army. He's even got Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley action figures. (Yes, that is very cool). Digs classic rock and is currently working on nailing the timing for the funk guitar part in Another One Bites the Dust as well as Kiss riffs, television theme songs, and video game themes. Good guy and when he puts his mind to it he can rise to the top of the heap.
Regina V: 15, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Regina is tough to pin down as a guitarist since she can play just about anything. Right now she polishing up the solo for I Love Rock and Roll, but has some Carcassi and Tarrega up her sleeve as well as some blues, Zeppelin, jazz chords, singer songwriter tunes, really just about anything. When Regina puts in a few good weeks of practice she's easily the best student I have. No exaggeration needed as she has tons of potential. Not bad for a lefty who plays righty. Could be the one to beat. Also, her home is a favorite stop when Isa accompanies me on lessons for the day. Best meatballs and chocolate covered strawberries you'll find anywhere. And the haunted house, foggedaboutit! Awesome.
M.J. : 12, Guitar, Clarks Summit
M.J. routinely busts my chops and I give it right back. LOL M.J. has a knack for memorizing songs and his mom has a knack for golumpki. I have to remember to not eat until I go to M.J.'s as I'll most likely get yelled at.
M.J. has been taking lessons along with his two sisters, and in the summer a french exchange student -hey Louis, how's it going? Always fun to sit down with M.J. as he's a pretty funny guy and smart as a whip. Working on a bunch of stuff and is a couple of good practices away from acing this contest. Oh, did I mention I get candy bars? From Sweden! Love them Daim bars. My international connection right in little ol' Clarks Summit. Pretty cool.
Mason: 8, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Mason is another new student who is perfect for this contest. Don't overlook the potential a youngster to sweep the competition. Mason tears through new material like nobody's business and is always prepared, practiced, and ready to go. Working on holding the guitar and playing correctly which is huge goal for anyone just starting out. And he nails it. Smart kid, good attitude, and another one who practices. What more could you ask for?
Victoria D: 15, Guitar, Moscow
Tori is the nicest, most sweetest student that there ever was in the whole wide world ever. Think Snow White who plays guitar. Well, Snow White meets Joan Jett (she's got a bit of an edge... but it's a nice edge). Tori is working on the rhythm track to be paired with Regina's lead track for I Love Rock and Roll. Jordan and A.J. will fill in on drums and bass. Tori always has a good attitude, has a great family, and on any given week her dad might load me up with anything from spray paint to copper wire, wheel pullers to maybe an amp. (We'll see what they find in their many travels. I have a standing order in for any old, cool tube amp. Preferably a '65 Fender Twin with the original Jensen Speakers in perfectly preserved tweed covering, recently serviced of course, for around 8 bucks. I bet they find one, too!). Great people, good student, and free stuff! Cool.
A.J. S: 17, Bass, Guitar, Moscow
If people were candles A.J. would be a carbon arc light. A.J. is a natural bassist, does great in school, and wants to be an engineer. And who doesn't just love trains, right? (Gotta get him a hat from Steam Town). Always interested in new material regardless of the style, and can weave a John Paul Jones bass line like nobody's business. Great sense of timing and incredible memory. Learns stuff really quickly and it's always cool when a new riff turns into an extended jam. Working on everything from Bach to Zeppelin and has a knack for lugging really heavy bass cabinets up and down the stairs. (Whatever keeps him out of trouble). Great guy and an obvious threat in this competition.
Jordan M: 16, Drums, Moscow
Jordan is an absolute monster on the drum kit. Funny thing is that he took about 6 months of guitar lessons and then switched to drums, which he could play immediately. Talk about natural talent.
Jordan has a competitive edge and usually practice turns into Jordan vs. The Drums. Guess who usually wins. (Those poor drums just don't stand a chance). Has a knack for inventing unique fills and beats, working on snare solos, note for note John Bonham transcriptions, funky backbeats, and just about anything else. Plays "end of the world" drums and sets the bar very high in this contest.
Mike V: 17, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Mike is ridiculous. I mean that in a good way. It's ridiculous how fast this guy learns. It's like he has a recorder implanted in his head and can instantly spit out any riff I throw at him. Impeccable timing, great memory, and a ridiculously good ear. There I go with ridiculous again. You can tell Mike was a musician before he ever picked up a guitar. Just a natural. Working on just about everything but focussing on some classical pieces for music school auditions. Everybody else better get practicing considering Mike is in the competition. Very talented.
Brandon C: 17, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Brand is the hairiest student I teach and that's A-Ok in my book. Think Robert Plant meets Ted Nugent and you've got the idea. I think Brandon practices the most correctly out of any student and as a result holds the distinction of being the only guitar student to ever outplay the teacher, matching speed for speed. I'm couldn't be more proud (and a little ticked off, too). Brandon plays everything from classical pieces and cool fingerpicking numbers to hard rock classics and rippin' guitar solos. On the weekends he can be found writing poety, caring for homeless kittens, making a delicious casserole, knitting stylish mittens, or just curling up with a good book. He loves singing sensitive Taylor Swift numbers and can be found dancing it up to some Katy Perry (his favorite) or just twisting the night away to ABBA...
(I'm just getting him back for outplaying me. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!). Great dedication, could be the one to beat.
Will S: 15, Guitar, Newton Ransom
Will probably has the most untapped natural talent out of any student on the roster. Can play complex rhythms and intricate riffs easily and is progressing as a guitar player. All without ever listening to me at all. Not even once. Not ever!!! How about that? There are times when I'm just knocked out by his natural ability. Of course, there are other time when I'd like to drop him off at Jakob's with a couple of T-Bones tied to his jacket. (See killer dogs reference above). Anyway, when Will puts his mind to it he can play just about anything and because of this he could be a major contender in this contest.
Cameron L: 15, Drums, Clarks Summit
Cameron is another guy who likes hitting things with sticks. Also has killer dogs but they're pint sized so I just have to watch the ankles. Cameron began taking lessons way back when I was sporting a goatee. And, he was about a foot shorter. Cameron has a lot of heart and something to prove. As part of the marching band Cameron is working through rudiments and snare solos and has his eye on moving up in the ranks. He's been tearing through his practice material and has a good chance of coming out on top.
Will E: 16, Guitar, Clarks Summit
The guy with the "golden ears". Will can not only play anything by ear but can also read like a champ. A lethal combination for anyone in this contest. Adept at both rhythm and lead, Will is one of those students that I have warming up in the bullpen for band projects as he does great under pressure and has impeccable timing. He's also Clarks Summit's own Electronica guru, plays the bass, and has been studying piano with Richard Asch for years. A natural musician and perfect for this competition.
Brian M: 17, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Brian's a smart as they get and has recently taken an interest in classical guitar. He has the potential to really excel in this contest especially when you consider that he's an exemplary student. When he applies that work ethic to learning the guitar there's no stopping him. Has great taste in music and is up for learning just about anything. Can learn faster than a speeding bullet and accommodate a reschedule in a single bound. Works for me. Brian can easily rise to the top as most improved.
Maitri P: Guitar, Clarks Summit
Hold on. The dynamic shifts with this recent entry and all bets are off. The most improved thus far should rethink their strategies as this talented student enters the competition. Highly intelligent and focussed, Maitri raises the bar as she is able to learn very quickly and is always prepared. Always one step ahead, Maitri blasts through new material easily and has turned the competition upside down. Everybody else better get practicing.
Jessie R: 11, Guitar, Clarks Summit
I've known Jessie since before she was born. I have a great picture of Isa and Jessie when they could both just barely sit up so it's pretty neat to now be able to teach her to play the guitar. C'mon she was just a little baby and now she's 11. Hard to believe. Jessie is wicked smart, a fun student to teach, and is always ready for a challenge. Working on a variety of tunes, Jessie is a formidable competitor and still not too old for a squishy face!
Nic M: 18, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Nick has the ability to pick both songs I think are awesome and songs that drive me berserko. Recently he chose Atomic Punk, a Van Halen classic. Not sure if most people his age even know that song. Definitely goes in the awesome category and Nick routinely catches me off guard with great guitar tunes like this. A great guy with a heart of gold, Nick has recently acquired a new guitar and amp which has helped to jump start his technical abilities. You know what they say: "Good tools, good work."
I probably horse around with Nick more than any other student as each lesson is rife with one liners, friendly jabs, bad puns, and assorted zaniness. Gotta have a sense of humor. There's a lot of potential here, not to mention incredibly stretchy fingers as Nick's hands are like Eddie Van Halen meets Stretch Arm Strong. Great guy, picks awesome songs, and a lot of fun to teach since in any given lesson we both get locked in this perpetual Robin Williams meets Lewis Black comedy routine which only seems to make each leaaon more effective. One of my favorite stops.
Matt B: 16, Guitar, Clarks Summit
I would consider Matt to be one of my more serious music students, even though I constantly bust his chops about practicing and studying more. With great ears, Matt has an edge musically and digs jamming with other musicians. Which gives him even more of an edge as there really is no substitute for experience. I always look forward to throwing it back and forth with Matt as he's always receptive to new ideas, can execute a classical piece, lay down a groove to jam over, as well as hold his own when playing lead guitar. Matt is very accommodating to my crazy schedule and has music all through his family as his uncles and cousins play very well. I guess he's got the right DNA for it. Matt is in the top level in this contest and provides stiff competition for all other students.
Tommy R: 16, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Tom has horrible taste in guitar music and is obsessed with the most awful variety of guitarists ever to have defiled the instrument. I just can't take anymore. I mean Jimmy Page and Stevie Ray Vaughan? Like they ever amounted to anything. I really dread our Friday lesson as we have to dissect Hendrix riffs and solos. Just makes me sick. Ok, I'm kidding.
The cool thing with Tom is thst he picks out this stuff himself. I remember when he just started lessons Tom handed me some Stevie Ray Vaughan, Led Zeppelin, and Jimi Hendrix music books he had. This is what he wanted to learn and as a big fan of rock guitar myself, it doesn't get any better than that. If I had to say one thing about Tom it's that he evinces the adroitness in furtherance of the undifferentiated homologous and aforementioned affray as he encapsulates simultaneous acumen and perspicacity. Can't get any clearer than that. Tom's a great guy and is becoming my Hendrix expert. Definitely has his ducks in a row when it comes to picking great guitar music and has the smarts and talent to finish first in this contest.
Addi S: 12, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Addi is one of the brightest students I teach, just got a classical guitar, and is progressing steadily. With strong picking hand technique, Addi is able to play a variety of classical pieces. With all the ability in the world this kid can easily win this competition. A really impressive young guy who will most likely become a brain surgeon or something on that level. Great sense of humor, plays the guitar well, is quite the pianist, and ups the ante in this competition.
Lewis B: 12, Guitar, Lennoxville
When Lewis latches on to a riff, he will play it over and over until he can do it. This is a great attribute to have and when Lewis zeros in on a riff there's no stopping him. Digs cool music and is currently polishing Sweet Home Alabama. With a newly setup guitar Lewis has the opportunity to slingshot into the lead in this contest.
Kiera B: 11, Guitar, Scranton
Kiera lives a block away and she, Isa, and Joey G all go to the same school and are in the same grade. Kiera has the brains and ability to be great at whatever she does and when she practices she is right at the top level of all my students. Right now she's been working on a small classical piece and doing very well. Great kid and a surprisingly good driver as Wednesdays are her turn to drive the car home from school. Sprinting to the finish so all others better get practicing.
Isa B: 11, Guitar, Violin, Piano, Scranton
Well, Isa is an honorary member of this contest as she knows it would seem pretty fishy if she won. (That money is coming out of my own pocket, I guess!). But, she is competing alongside all the other contestants and is expected to improve. Isa is a really smart kid who routinely brings home grades above 100 (gotta love bonus points). I have been chasing Isa around with a guitar since she was 3 and this past summer she really took an interest in it. They say you can't teach your kids and "they" have a point as Isa can obviously push my buttons. Funny, she NEVER pulls this stuff on her violin teacher!!! (Christina Cox- who is a brilliant violinist and teacher).
Oh well, that's just part of teaching your own daughter. LOL
Isa is very talented and is working on strumming and singing, a classical piece which she "loves", and playing correctly. It's great to have the opportunity to teach her as she's such a bright and talented young lady. And, she's hilarious! Anyway, I could go on and on and on and on...
Such a cutie pie.
The whole point of this contest is to get everybody to practice and achieve great results. All music teachers struggle with trying to inspire and motivate students to excel. With years of teaching experience and thousands of lessons logged I have concluded that one of the best ways to inspire students is to use the prospect of hard, cold cash. Really cuts to the chase.
Now, many students will put in their best effort but only one can win the grand prize. That's the deal. So, with 25 contestants you have a 1 in 25 chance. I obviously don't want to end up with 1 really happy participant and 24 who feel they got gypped. I know it sounds corny, but if you practice really hard then you have already gained something from this contest. And that's the point: get students to practice more. Good luck to all. If all goes well we'll have another contest in the spring.
The rules are simple.
Contestants will be judged according to:
Preparedness
Practice
Attendance
Listening
Attitude/Enthusiasm
Pretty simple stuff, just practice and be prepared for your lesson. If you have to miss a lesson try to reschedule or make up the time. Work on listening during your lesson and keep the noodling to a minimum. A good attitude goes a long way so stay positive and interested while learning the instrument.
This contest is for all ages and is based on an individual student's overall improvement and not who plays the best. So, while it might seem that an older student who has taken years of lessons might have an advantage, this is not necessarily the case. I teach a few youngsters, kids 8 and 9 years old, who show great improvement just by holding and fretting the guitar correctly. That's just as big an improvement as a much older student perfecting a challenging electric guitar solo or classical piece. Plus, a $100 cash prize to a 25 year old, for example, can seem like a $1000 prize to a youngster. You ever see a kid freak out when they see a $100 bill? Now that's some serious motivation.
Here's our contestants:
Chris C: 8, Guitar, Scranton
"The Pride of South Side". Chris is the youngest student I have and probably the most fun to teach. Very enthusiastic and has a pretty good sense of humor. Currently working on a bunch of songs including Stand By Me, Yellow Submarine, and "Scrant-agueña " (a little take off of Malagueña). Always has a good attitude and is moving along nicely. A top tier contestant.
Angel K: 9, Guitar, Justus
This young lady just turned 9 in the summer and recently acquired a classical guitar. By 8 years old she already had experience playing and singing in public. Plays very well, just started a classical piece, and literally "sings like an Angel." It's astonishing to hear someone so young have such natural music ability. Looking to record her versions of Over the Rainbow and an acoustic Won't Get Fooled Again. That's right, a nine year old girl singing The Who. Awesome!
Joey G: 10, Scranton, Drums
This kid's a powerhouse behind the kit. Incredible sense of rhythm and natural ability. And, get this: HE PRACTICES!!! I'm already working on putting together the next "band" of students and I'm sure Joey will be the glue that holds it all together. Great ability, great attitude. And he's only 10!
Jakob K: 11, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Jakob has a wonderful family, is the oldest of 5 kids, has 2 great parents, an awesome grandma, and 2 killer dogs. I'm pretty sure Jakob knows the attack command and is just waiting for the right moment to sic them on me. Aside from that, Jakob reads music very well and is working on some Zeppelin, The Munsters Theme, and lots more stuff. Really good kid and pretty hilarious at times. Jakob is the perfect contestant for a most improved contest because he has a lot of untapped natural ability and he's a pretty smart kid to boot. When he puts his mind to it he's easily in the top 2 or 3 students I have. And he has one major factor to influence my decision: Killer Dogs!!! (ok, they're not really killer dogs...yet). LOL
Ian J: 11, Guitar, Clarks Summit
You know those kids who at a very young age are already smarter than most adults? That's Ian. This 11 year old is already a guitarist at heart, it's just in his DNA. He's one of those people who will always play music in some capacity and with Ian it'll be among his long list of accomplishments like: Famous Author, Astrophysicist, World Renown Guitarist, Senator, Mad Scientist and ultimately Supreme President of the Earth. Aside from that, he has a knack for picking very interesting, pretty obscure, but great songs. A lot of stuff I've never heard so it's always a treat to see what he's into each week. Actually he can probably go toe to toe with my most eclectic, much older student in this regard. (you know who you are... Sean G.) Always a challenge to keep up with Ian since he'll occasionally sit down and say, "Oh, I learned this myself". At which he proceeds to play a classical piece he's learned by himself. Great kid, keeps me on my toes.
Ryan W: 12, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Ryan's a relatively new student with a good practice routine and a good attitude. Ryan's got a competitive spirit and really focuses in on any new challenge I throw at him. Sets and achieves short term goals every week and had been progressing steadily. A guy like Ryan is a major concern for other contestants because of his steady improvement. Every week he gets a little better and that's the whole point of this competition.
Liam G: 14, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Liam is hands down the funniest student I teach. Witty fella and always up for some horsing around. An avid horror movie fan and an actual member of the KISS Army. He's even got Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley action figures. (Yes, that is very cool). Digs classic rock and is currently working on nailing the timing for the funk guitar part in Another One Bites the Dust as well as Kiss riffs, television theme songs, and video game themes. Good guy and when he puts his mind to it he can rise to the top of the heap.
Regina V: 15, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Regina is tough to pin down as a guitarist since she can play just about anything. Right now she polishing up the solo for I Love Rock and Roll, but has some Carcassi and Tarrega up her sleeve as well as some blues, Zeppelin, jazz chords, singer songwriter tunes, really just about anything. When Regina puts in a few good weeks of practice she's easily the best student I have. No exaggeration needed as she has tons of potential. Not bad for a lefty who plays righty. Could be the one to beat. Also, her home is a favorite stop when Isa accompanies me on lessons for the day. Best meatballs and chocolate covered strawberries you'll find anywhere. And the haunted house, foggedaboutit! Awesome.
M.J. : 12, Guitar, Clarks Summit
M.J. routinely busts my chops and I give it right back. LOL M.J. has a knack for memorizing songs and his mom has a knack for golumpki. I have to remember to not eat until I go to M.J.'s as I'll most likely get yelled at.
M.J. has been taking lessons along with his two sisters, and in the summer a french exchange student -hey Louis, how's it going? Always fun to sit down with M.J. as he's a pretty funny guy and smart as a whip. Working on a bunch of stuff and is a couple of good practices away from acing this contest. Oh, did I mention I get candy bars? From Sweden! Love them Daim bars. My international connection right in little ol' Clarks Summit. Pretty cool.
Mason: 8, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Mason is another new student who is perfect for this contest. Don't overlook the potential a youngster to sweep the competition. Mason tears through new material like nobody's business and is always prepared, practiced, and ready to go. Working on holding the guitar and playing correctly which is huge goal for anyone just starting out. And he nails it. Smart kid, good attitude, and another one who practices. What more could you ask for?
Victoria D: 15, Guitar, Moscow
Tori is the nicest, most sweetest student that there ever was in the whole wide world ever. Think Snow White who plays guitar. Well, Snow White meets Joan Jett (she's got a bit of an edge... but it's a nice edge). Tori is working on the rhythm track to be paired with Regina's lead track for I Love Rock and Roll. Jordan and A.J. will fill in on drums and bass. Tori always has a good attitude, has a great family, and on any given week her dad might load me up with anything from spray paint to copper wire, wheel pullers to maybe an amp. (We'll see what they find in their many travels. I have a standing order in for any old, cool tube amp. Preferably a '65 Fender Twin with the original Jensen Speakers in perfectly preserved tweed covering, recently serviced of course, for around 8 bucks. I bet they find one, too!). Great people, good student, and free stuff! Cool.
A.J. S: 17, Bass, Guitar, Moscow
If people were candles A.J. would be a carbon arc light. A.J. is a natural bassist, does great in school, and wants to be an engineer. And who doesn't just love trains, right? (Gotta get him a hat from Steam Town). Always interested in new material regardless of the style, and can weave a John Paul Jones bass line like nobody's business. Great sense of timing and incredible memory. Learns stuff really quickly and it's always cool when a new riff turns into an extended jam. Working on everything from Bach to Zeppelin and has a knack for lugging really heavy bass cabinets up and down the stairs. (Whatever keeps him out of trouble). Great guy and an obvious threat in this competition.
Jordan M: 16, Drums, Moscow
Jordan is an absolute monster on the drum kit. Funny thing is that he took about 6 months of guitar lessons and then switched to drums, which he could play immediately. Talk about natural talent.
Jordan has a competitive edge and usually practice turns into Jordan vs. The Drums. Guess who usually wins. (Those poor drums just don't stand a chance). Has a knack for inventing unique fills and beats, working on snare solos, note for note John Bonham transcriptions, funky backbeats, and just about anything else. Plays "end of the world" drums and sets the bar very high in this contest.
Mike V: 17, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Mike is ridiculous. I mean that in a good way. It's ridiculous how fast this guy learns. It's like he has a recorder implanted in his head and can instantly spit out any riff I throw at him. Impeccable timing, great memory, and a ridiculously good ear. There I go with ridiculous again. You can tell Mike was a musician before he ever picked up a guitar. Just a natural. Working on just about everything but focussing on some classical pieces for music school auditions. Everybody else better get practicing considering Mike is in the competition. Very talented.
Brandon C: 17, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Brand is the hairiest student I teach and that's A-Ok in my book. Think Robert Plant meets Ted Nugent and you've got the idea. I think Brandon practices the most correctly out of any student and as a result holds the distinction of being the only guitar student to ever outplay the teacher, matching speed for speed. I'm couldn't be more proud (and a little ticked off, too). Brandon plays everything from classical pieces and cool fingerpicking numbers to hard rock classics and rippin' guitar solos. On the weekends he can be found writing poety, caring for homeless kittens, making a delicious casserole, knitting stylish mittens, or just curling up with a good book. He loves singing sensitive Taylor Swift numbers and can be found dancing it up to some Katy Perry (his favorite) or just twisting the night away to ABBA...
(I'm just getting him back for outplaying me. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!). Great dedication, could be the one to beat.
Will S: 15, Guitar, Newton Ransom
Will probably has the most untapped natural talent out of any student on the roster. Can play complex rhythms and intricate riffs easily and is progressing as a guitar player. All without ever listening to me at all. Not even once. Not ever!!! How about that? There are times when I'm just knocked out by his natural ability. Of course, there are other time when I'd like to drop him off at Jakob's with a couple of T-Bones tied to his jacket. (See killer dogs reference above). Anyway, when Will puts his mind to it he can play just about anything and because of this he could be a major contender in this contest.
Cameron L: 15, Drums, Clarks Summit
Cameron is another guy who likes hitting things with sticks. Also has killer dogs but they're pint sized so I just have to watch the ankles. Cameron began taking lessons way back when I was sporting a goatee. And, he was about a foot shorter. Cameron has a lot of heart and something to prove. As part of the marching band Cameron is working through rudiments and snare solos and has his eye on moving up in the ranks. He's been tearing through his practice material and has a good chance of coming out on top.
Will E: 16, Guitar, Clarks Summit
The guy with the "golden ears". Will can not only play anything by ear but can also read like a champ. A lethal combination for anyone in this contest. Adept at both rhythm and lead, Will is one of those students that I have warming up in the bullpen for band projects as he does great under pressure and has impeccable timing. He's also Clarks Summit's own Electronica guru, plays the bass, and has been studying piano with Richard Asch for years. A natural musician and perfect for this competition.
Brian M: 17, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Brian's a smart as they get and has recently taken an interest in classical guitar. He has the potential to really excel in this contest especially when you consider that he's an exemplary student. When he applies that work ethic to learning the guitar there's no stopping him. Has great taste in music and is up for learning just about anything. Can learn faster than a speeding bullet and accommodate a reschedule in a single bound. Works for me. Brian can easily rise to the top as most improved.
Maitri P: Guitar, Clarks Summit
Hold on. The dynamic shifts with this recent entry and all bets are off. The most improved thus far should rethink their strategies as this talented student enters the competition. Highly intelligent and focussed, Maitri raises the bar as she is able to learn very quickly and is always prepared. Always one step ahead, Maitri blasts through new material easily and has turned the competition upside down. Everybody else better get practicing.
Jessie R: 11, Guitar, Clarks Summit
I've known Jessie since before she was born. I have a great picture of Isa and Jessie when they could both just barely sit up so it's pretty neat to now be able to teach her to play the guitar. C'mon she was just a little baby and now she's 11. Hard to believe. Jessie is wicked smart, a fun student to teach, and is always ready for a challenge. Working on a variety of tunes, Jessie is a formidable competitor and still not too old for a squishy face!
Nic M: 18, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Nick has the ability to pick both songs I think are awesome and songs that drive me berserko. Recently he chose Atomic Punk, a Van Halen classic. Not sure if most people his age even know that song. Definitely goes in the awesome category and Nick routinely catches me off guard with great guitar tunes like this. A great guy with a heart of gold, Nick has recently acquired a new guitar and amp which has helped to jump start his technical abilities. You know what they say: "Good tools, good work."
I probably horse around with Nick more than any other student as each lesson is rife with one liners, friendly jabs, bad puns, and assorted zaniness. Gotta have a sense of humor. There's a lot of potential here, not to mention incredibly stretchy fingers as Nick's hands are like Eddie Van Halen meets Stretch Arm Strong. Great guy, picks awesome songs, and a lot of fun to teach since in any given lesson we both get locked in this perpetual Robin Williams meets Lewis Black comedy routine which only seems to make each leaaon more effective. One of my favorite stops.
Matt B: 16, Guitar, Clarks Summit
I would consider Matt to be one of my more serious music students, even though I constantly bust his chops about practicing and studying more. With great ears, Matt has an edge musically and digs jamming with other musicians. Which gives him even more of an edge as there really is no substitute for experience. I always look forward to throwing it back and forth with Matt as he's always receptive to new ideas, can execute a classical piece, lay down a groove to jam over, as well as hold his own when playing lead guitar. Matt is very accommodating to my crazy schedule and has music all through his family as his uncles and cousins play very well. I guess he's got the right DNA for it. Matt is in the top level in this contest and provides stiff competition for all other students.
Tommy R: 16, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Tom has horrible taste in guitar music and is obsessed with the most awful variety of guitarists ever to have defiled the instrument. I just can't take anymore. I mean Jimmy Page and Stevie Ray Vaughan? Like they ever amounted to anything. I really dread our Friday lesson as we have to dissect Hendrix riffs and solos. Just makes me sick. Ok, I'm kidding.
The cool thing with Tom is thst he picks out this stuff himself. I remember when he just started lessons Tom handed me some Stevie Ray Vaughan, Led Zeppelin, and Jimi Hendrix music books he had. This is what he wanted to learn and as a big fan of rock guitar myself, it doesn't get any better than that. If I had to say one thing about Tom it's that he evinces the adroitness in furtherance of the undifferentiated homologous and aforementioned affray as he encapsulates simultaneous acumen and perspicacity. Can't get any clearer than that. Tom's a great guy and is becoming my Hendrix expert. Definitely has his ducks in a row when it comes to picking great guitar music and has the smarts and talent to finish first in this contest.
Addi S: 12, Guitar, Clarks Summit
Addi is one of the brightest students I teach, just got a classical guitar, and is progressing steadily. With strong picking hand technique, Addi is able to play a variety of classical pieces. With all the ability in the world this kid can easily win this competition. A really impressive young guy who will most likely become a brain surgeon or something on that level. Great sense of humor, plays the guitar well, is quite the pianist, and ups the ante in this competition.
Lewis B: 12, Guitar, Lennoxville
When Lewis latches on to a riff, he will play it over and over until he can do it. This is a great attribute to have and when Lewis zeros in on a riff there's no stopping him. Digs cool music and is currently polishing Sweet Home Alabama. With a newly setup guitar Lewis has the opportunity to slingshot into the lead in this contest.
Kiera B: 11, Guitar, Scranton
Kiera lives a block away and she, Isa, and Joey G all go to the same school and are in the same grade. Kiera has the brains and ability to be great at whatever she does and when she practices she is right at the top level of all my students. Right now she's been working on a small classical piece and doing very well. Great kid and a surprisingly good driver as Wednesdays are her turn to drive the car home from school. Sprinting to the finish so all others better get practicing.
Isa B: 11, Guitar, Violin, Piano, Scranton
Well, Isa is an honorary member of this contest as she knows it would seem pretty fishy if she won. (That money is coming out of my own pocket, I guess!). But, she is competing alongside all the other contestants and is expected to improve. Isa is a really smart kid who routinely brings home grades above 100 (gotta love bonus points). I have been chasing Isa around with a guitar since she was 3 and this past summer she really took an interest in it. They say you can't teach your kids and "they" have a point as Isa can obviously push my buttons. Funny, she NEVER pulls this stuff on her violin teacher!!! (Christina Cox- who is a brilliant violinist and teacher).
Oh well, that's just part of teaching your own daughter. LOL
Isa is very talented and is working on strumming and singing, a classical piece which she "loves", and playing correctly. It's great to have the opportunity to teach her as she's such a bright and talented young lady. And, she's hilarious! Anyway, I could go on and on and on and on...
Such a cutie pie.