Frequently Asked Questions

 

What should I do before starting lessons?

  • Schedule a free Meet & Greet! It's your chance to meet me to make sure we would be a good fit working together. Additionally you can contact me to get started!

    • Please DO NOT purchase an instrument (unless you already have one) as many "instruments" sold are low-quality or not suited for beginners. I would love to help you find a quality instrument!

  • SUZUKI METHOD: If you or your child is interested in Suzuki Method guitar, you should buy the Suzuki Method Guitar Book 1 CD immediately, and begin playing for your child on a routine basis! Additionally, you may find that a registered Suzuki Method teacher is within driving distance. You will likely have an even better experience with one of these local professionals, and I encourage you to check here first.

 

What Are Your Qualifications to teach guitar?

  • I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Music -AND- Education (State of Alaska, Arizona Teaching Certificates).

    • Dedicated music teachers understand the need to love educating as well as performing. As a former public and private school teacher, and veteran guitarist, I have found a deep passion and respect for the art of teaching.

  • I am a member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas as a registered teacher, and have been for nearly 20 years, having completed multiple studies with some of the most talented teacher-trainers in the U.S.

  • I have taught nearly a thousand students how to enjoy and develop skills on the instrument, having worked with a full-time student load for nearly 20 years.

 

AT what age can a student start guitar, or is it too late?

  • Believe it or not, I have had success teaching students as young as 5 (this involves at home participation from parents)! Even if children aren’t ready for formal lessons there is LOTS to do at home to prepare them to succeed in their formal musical education later on.

  • Many professional adults, family CEOs (😉) and retirees have found deep enjoyment and life-enrichment from their developed competency on the instrument in my studio.

 

Where are lessons held?

  • Online (from anywhere you can access an internet connection!)

Do you have a studio calendar of events?

  • Yes! You can find it here.

Online, really?

  • Honestly, yes! I’ve invested a tremendous amount in creating a great online learning experience. My third love is technology, and you can tell from the first minute in lessons. From multiple rack-mounted cameras for varying views of hands on the guitar to utilitization of the MusicNest.io software for individualized shared notes and learning materials. And, for kids of course, I employ the use of screen-shared games in between guided practice for efficient use of time in lesson. As a trained educator I am cognizant of differentiated instructional approaches that may benefit individual students, and I think it shows!

  • For Parents: Many young students are best taught in-person, and may have difficulty learning online. That said, I am conscientious about differentiating teaching approaches for the various learning styles, and have had great success at teaching students exclusively online. The Meet & Greet is a wonderful way for me to meet your child and ascertain if lessons online will be a good fit for them. I do encourage parents to search for a good local teacher first (which I’d be glad to help with, as I am part of a large network of Suzuki Method teachers internationally and know many of them personally).

  • For Adult Students: Most of my busy moms and dads, professional adult and retiree students were surprised to find how easy it was to continue learning online. A longtime student, who initially took lessons in person, had this to say about it:

    “I have been talking guitar lessons from Paul for many years…The pandemic brought Zoom lessons. Paul has fantastic technology for his online lessons. I feel Paul’s online lessons are just like being in person.” - Danny R.

 

How much do lessons cost?

  • High-quality education programs are never the cheapest option. However, Sarafin Guitar tuition costs are only a little higher than the average online teacher and not outside of the normal range. I am happy to discuss the cost at your interview. Please contact to schedule our initial meeting.

 

Do you offer make up lessons?

  • No. Unless I have to cancel a lesson for the rare, unscheduled circumstance. It is important that the entire arc of learning is not interrupted habitually. Your time is reserved exclusively for you, and I ask that you schedule other activities accordingly.

 

WHat can I do if there are no workable lessons times available in the schedule?

  • My wait pool for lessons is kept intentionally low. If, after our Meet & Greet, we both feel lessons would be a great fit I can add you to it, and fight to get you into the schedule! Otherwise, I am happy to refer you to other exceptional teachers I personally know.