Álvaro is a personable and excellent teacher. I came in with some basic knowledge that I had memorized but could not apply in a meaningful way. He understands that in order for you to really learn something you have to take a basic concept and be able to apply it at the next level. In keeping with that theme, he will provide you with the basic structure of an idea and then force you to apply it. No transcribing scales for you - he will teach you the theory behind which note is played where and then ask you to figure the rest on your own. This forces you to apply what he has showed you, do some self study and finally practice all of this on your own time. This is truly how you learn in my opinion.
In just a few weeks, we were playing some basic chords for rhythm while I was able to improvise a song of my own to go along with it. Initially, I wanted to come in and learn how to play AC/DC or Led Zeppelin, which he will happily show you how to play. However, I realized that I had a deeper interest in music theory and how the composition of music works. Álvaro will happily take you down this road so that you are learning to create your own tunes quickly as opposed to memorizing how to play someone else's. He can show you different styles from jazz to rock to metal. Last week we learned a few basic chords from Bossa Nova and I've been improvising my own tunes along with the chords. Its a fantastic way to learn and works better then simply trying to memorize scales. I highly recommend working with Álvaro; he will be able to help you out regardless of your level and if you are a diligent and serious student you will see results very quickly.
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