Music Lessons on the Guitar ::: Brian Wride - Uxbridge, Ontario

As A Guitarist:

I started playing guitar in 1977, when a generous neighbour gave me an old electric guitar after they upgraded to a better instrument. I took formal lessons for several years and enjoyed playing in a "garage band".

When I went to university, I discovered that a number of my friends also played and we spent many evenings jamming and learning from each other. While at university, I was also able to take a music history course.

After university, I decided that it was time to fill in some gaps in my knowledge of musical theory, so, independently, I studied theory using the Royal Conservatory curriculum.

After moving to Uxbridge, I was involved for several years in the music program at Uxbridge Baptist Church, playing regularly in the worship band, and I continue to help out whenever I can. I also have spent some time learning to play the mandolin and briefly was able to start into the fiddle - until children arrived on the scene. 

Currently, I play mostly fingerstyle guitar, including classical, ragtime, and more contemporary pieces. I can usually be found at the York Region Fingerstyle Guitar Association's monthly open mic. I have also started playing bass guitar and enjoy a somewhat regular "jam" with friends. 

As A Music Teacher:

I started teaching music in 2003 after three people approached me in the same week to see if I would. Teaching guitar has since become one of the great joys of my life.

My teaching style is fairly formal in that I think that it is important for a musician to be able to read music, understand musical theory,  and be exposed to a wide variety of musical styles. I also think that it is important to be able to perform for people, so I am inclined to teach complete tunes rather than riffs and licks. Of course I don't mind slanting the curriculum towards a student's musical tastes and/or strengths.