Lessons

Benjamin Altman is currently accepting students for his Washington, DC and Northern Virginia area studio. His current studio includes students from across the D.C. metro area.

Dr. Altman has been teaching guitar professionally since 2005, and currently gives lessons at the International School of Music, in addition to his private studio. He has been on faculty at Nazareth College and the Eastman Community Music School in Rochester, NY, and during summers at the Rocky Ridge Music Center in Estes Park, CO. As a teaching assistant at the esteemed Eastman School of Music, he coached chamber music, taught private lessons, and taught a course on Guitar Pedagogy.

His students have ranged in age from 6 to 83, and in ability from complete beginners to college music majors. In addition to classical guitar, Benjamin teaches rock, blues, folk, country, and also gives lessons on mandolin and ukulele.

Benjamin is dedicated to forming not just excellent guitarists, but complete musicians. His lessons are tailored to each student’s individual needs and goals, and use a variety of materials and supplements. Proper technique is stressed as necessary for playing with ease and comfort, and to allow the student to reach full potential. Music is treated as a language infused with meaning, and students develop their musicianship from the beginning. Where appropriate, students learn music theory to increase understanding – not just what to play, but why.

Please contact Benjamin for pricing and scheduling by emailing altmanguitar(at)gmail(dot)com

Here is what some of Dr. Altman’s students are saying:

“He is a fabulous guitar and mandolin player…his practical and insightful approach helped me make big improvements in my guitar playing technique. Ben is a top class musician and a professional in every sense of the word.”

“We highly recommend Ben Altman! He was patient and kind to our beginner musician. Now age 12, she continues to strive and excel at playing this beautiful instrument. We have solely relied on Ben and have been absolutely amazed at how she has improved beyond our expectations! Ben embodies professionalism and perfection. He is extremely patient and easy tempered. Our daughter has appreciated his quiet and efficient way of teaching. She responds well to his positive reinforcement and expectation of responsibility from her. We are thrilled with our experience with Ben and would recommend him for any musical instruction.”

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