About Mike Nelson
I am a guitarist with over 25 years of playing experience. I have taught students young and old, from complete beginners to intermediate level players who need to improve their technique or get out of a rut!
I am a guitarist with over 25 years of playing experience. I have taught students young and old, from complete beginners to intermediate level players who need to improve their technique or get out of a rut! Guitar is my passion and it can be yours too! Experience the joy of learning with a teacher who provides organized lessons and utilizes modern educational resources.
Before teaching, I worked as a risk consultant and auditor at a services firm before starting my teaching career in 2019. I hold a Bachelor of Commerce with a focus on Accounting and Commercial Law. My strong affinity for process and analysis enables me to break down complex musical concepts into manageable, step-by-step lessons.
Pukerua Bay & Online Lessons
Available Hours:
- Monday: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 2:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Lessons Away (Plimmerton, Cambourne, Mana, Paremata, Papakowhai, Whitby)
Available Hours:
- Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Thursday: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Online Lessons
Can't make it in person? No problem! I also offer online lessons via Zoom or Skype.
Online lessons are suited for intermediate level players who are comfortable with basic guitar techniques and can maintain good posture and hand positioning independently.
My Approach to Lessons
Lessons usually focus on a specific song chosen by the student—or by me if it is useful to develop specific skills. Technique and theory are discussed in the context of the song. There are also dedicated lessons solely for technique and theory. The type of lesson and content depends on your goals and the style of playing you wish to develop.
Song Lessons
Quick Check-In: A brief chat to see how your song practice is going and identify any challenges.
Song: We work on a specific section of your song where a key skill (like alternate picking or chord transitions) needs improvement. This helps with learning the song and developing your technical skills.
Musical Ideas in Context: You'll learn how the musical ideas behind the song connect to underlying theory.
Immediate Feedback: Targeted, hands-on corrections help you make quick progress.
Practice Instructions: Dedicate focused time to practicing the song section, applying the techniques we worked on, and reviewing any theory concepts discussed.
Theory-Focused Lessons
Music Theory Concepts: These sessions explore scales, chord structures, rhythmic concepts, and common forms (e.g., 12 bar blues) to build a solid foundation for your musical intuition.
Application: Learn how to apply these concepts in your playing through songwriting and improvisation.
Technique-Focused Lessons
These sessions concentrate on refining your technical skills through targeted exercises and drills. These may be new techniques or ones you are developing.
This comprehensive approach ensures that every lesson—whether focused on a song, theory, or technique—contributes to your overall development as a guitarist.