Most adult students come with a reason: a song they have always wanted to play, a guitar that has been sitting in a closet since college, a band that needs a bass player. Lessons start from that reason.
Starting as an adult
Adults tend to grasp the theory quickly and to be impatient with their own sound, because they can hear exactly how far it is from the record. What helps is a version of the song that sounds right early. Bill writes out the songs a student brings, simplified at first, so the first weeks already produce real music rather than exercises.
Reading music, theory and training your ear all come along with the songs; none of it is needed before you start.
Coming back after a break
Returning players usually find their hands remember more than they expected, and that the gaps are in theory and in the habits they never fixed. Lessons pick up from where the player actually is, not from page one of a beginner book.
Adding an instrument or a style
A lot carries over. A bass in standard tuning (E–A–D–G) uses the same notes as the four lowest strings of a guitar, an octave lower. A mandolin is tuned in fifths like a violin (G–D–A–E), so a guitarist's chord shapes don't transfer, but their ear and timing do. A rock player moving to jazz keeps the fretboard and learns new chord voicings and a new way of soloing.
Older beginners
There is no upper age limit; Bill's students have included adults up to 70. Piano and ukulele are gentle on the hands; a guitar with light strings and a good setup takes much of the soreness out of the fingertips. A half hour once a week leaves time for the practice to settle in.
Open mics, bands and recording
For adults who want to play for other people, Bill gets them ready for an open mic or a first band rehearsal, drawing on his own nights on stage as a bassist. Students can record at the studio.
When lessons happen
Weekday lessons run until 7 or 8 PM, Tuesday to Friday, and there are daytime lessons on Saturday and Sunday. Exact hours are on the contact page.
