James Woolwine

Lessons Offered

Where are Lessons Offered

About Me

I'm an experienced professional musician and private teacher, who is equally skilled on guitar and piano. I have played both instruments in numerous bands, and as a soloist. Music is my passion, and when not teaching I am busy composing and performing.

My Musical Education Background

I first began Classical piano lessons at the age of 7, and by my senior year of high school was winning competitions. I played the flute throughout Junior and High school, and started guitar lessons when I was 16. Despite my stronger background in Classical piano, I went to Berklee College of Music as a guitar principle. I graduated in 2004 with dual degrees in Guitar Performance and Music Business.

Genres and Subjects Taught

My philosophy is "Show students what they want, while instilling the fundamentals they need". I don't try to push specific styles or genres on a student. Instead, I believe in developing a strong foundation of theory and technique. These are the building blocks upon which all music is built. As a student develops these skills I guide them to apply what they have learned to the music they choose. Generally, younger beginners do best working from standard method books; while older students may benefit from looser instruction.

Lesson Rates

FREE TRIAL LESSON!

Regular students pay tuition monthly at a rate of $60 an hour.

(Travel fees apply for lessons in a student's home. The fee is calculated based upon mileage and estimated driving time.)

I allow cancellations/rescheduling with at least one days' notice. Same-day cancellations are forfeited without credit.

Ages / Skill Levels Taught

I accept students of any age. My youngest pupil was 4, and my oldest was in his 80's. I embrace the challenge of catering my teaching method to the needs of the individual.

My Certifications and Awards

-First Prize winner in "Advanced Fingerstyle Guitar" at the 2014 Topanga Banjo/Fiddle Contest
-Runner-Up in the 2012 "Song of the Year" contest
-Semi-Finalist in the 2013 "Song of the Year" contest
-2nd prize in 1999 regional finals of the Virginia James Bland Scholarship Competition

My Musical Influences

I was a total nerd for Classical music as a child, and I still appreciate it. My tastes have expanded since then to include all kinds of Rock, Pop, Metal, Folk, Electronic, Jazz, and Country. Some of my favorite artists are Rachmaninoff, Bruce Springsteen, U2, Metallica, Joe Satriani, The Fray, and Tommy Emmanuel.

Service Area

BC
Monterey, CA

James was recommended to me by the Adult School in Pacific Grove. He is an excellent guitar teacher and talented musician in his own right. His teaching style is easy to follow and the classes are enjoyable. Thank you James!

Sofya B
Pebble Beach, CA

Hi everyone! I've been taking lessons with mister Woolwine since September 2012. He is a great teacher and I am learning so much and becoming better at piano. I'm improving my skills with every lesson and I will continue taking lessons with James and I recommend you all to chose this teacher, to achieve success in piano :)

Maura L
Monterey, CA

My grandson is very excited about going to his piano lessons. He is even more excited about doing his piano homework. James takes the time to explain what is needed. He works at the child's level.