For over twenty years I have continuously taught a Guitar Performance Workshop - first at De Anza College, and now at a private venue in the South Bay - for intermediate through advanced players. In 2024, I expanded this workshop to Santa Cruz. Below are some details for both iterations.

The class is primarily for classical guitarists who read music (at least a little); Early intermediate through very advanced students are welcome, as are duos or small ensembles. Each meeting begins with group technical exercises/warmup, or a short lecture on technique and interpretation, then proceeds to a “master class” format:

• Everyone plays every week (who wants to), which builds confidence to perform in front of others.

• We focus on technique - many of the lessons address technical insufficiencies. Interpretation, musicianship, and stage poise are nurtured as well.

• At the end of the term (generally aligned with the quarter system), we have a performance - either a public concert, or a semi-public guitarfest, where everyone gets to showcase their pieces.

• Each term cycles for a limited duration, generally ten to twelve weeks, with a performance event at the end.

• Affordable! Tuition for this twelve week Santa Cruz course will be capped at $300 for (normally I frame tuition around a reasonable hourly rate, divided by the number of students in the class, plus room rental, which is also quite reasonable). Tuition for the Cupertino 12-week term is approximately $290.

  • If we rent a venue for performance, we'll divide that cost as well, which might be shared with another group or two. For the upcoming term, tuition is prorated for late starters.

Santa Cruz 12-week session began on January 6 at the Santa Cruz Music Academy, where I was a founding Director. Class size will be limited to eight students.

Cupertino session began on January 9, 7 to 10 PM, at Saint Jude‘s Episcopal Church, room five, at the intersection of Stelling and McClellan Roads.