First lessons generally consist of more talking than playing your instrument. With 5+ years of lesson experience, Cal has his own process and approach to first lessons. This will help the student set their own goal for their instrument and music studies.
All this information will be covered during the first lesson. This page simply functions as a reference to explore what Cal has to offer and as a preparatory resource prior to your first lesson.
Keep in mind, you should ideally have proper equipment for sound and video streaming prior to online lessons. This should consist of a quality microphone (condenser), webcam, and preamp (for electric keyboard, electric guitar, etc). This whole setup can be found for less than $300; ask Cal for recommendations and find more info HERE.
Specific Areas of Study / Goal Setting for Lessons
Fun
Repertoire Building
Music Language/Sight Reading study
Improved Technique and Technical Application
Efficient Practice Routine Management
Collaboration Skills
Improvisation Skills
Audition Preparation
Performance Practices:
-Preparation
-Stress/Tension Reduction
-Memorization Tactics
Composition/Theory practice:
-Chord progressions
-Solo melody
-Jamming/Ear Training
-Analysis
-Composing Techniques
Arranging, Transcribing, and/or Transposing
Aural Skills
Sight singing
Playing/Learning songs from ear
Singing while playing an instrument
Rhythm practice
General Instrument Proficiency
Music Therapy (case by case basis)
Musical Interest Investigation: Styles, Genres, Artists
What are some songs you like to listen to?
Who are some Artists you like to listen to?
Styles/or Genres you like to listen to?
Experience
Consider your experience with your instrument/music in general (are you a ‘complete beginner’? Otherwise answer these following points):
-Do you have a repertoire of songs? (Go to list of songs you like to play?) What are they and by which artist/composer?
-What is your practice routine like?
-What is your Music Theory knowledge level?
-Have you had any prior lessons?
-What is your preferred music language and reading ability? (sheet music, lead sheets, tabs, chord symbols, hymnals, by ear, solfege)
