Learners will improve their musicianship and playing technique on acoustic guitar. Learners will build repertoire while also learning music theory, chords, and scales.

Brett Kretzer has been a professional musician for over 11 years. His primary focus is on Bluegrass and Americana genres. He has played music his whole life. When he graduated high school, he decided to get his BA in Audio Production with additional studies in music history and music theory at The Art Institute of TN-Nashville. After graduating, he worked in the field as an audio engineer for a couple of years before realizing his true passion for creating and performing acoustic music. His teaching style is dedicated to helping students gain musical freedom in playing both solo and with others. He focuses on by-ear methods while using tablature for reference and first-time exposure to new songs. Students will learn to recognize musical themes on the fly and have the confidence to play without the need for sheet music or any other reference. In addition, they'll become proficient in music theory and chart reading. Brett's primary instrument is the mandolin, but he is an experienced guitarist and loves to teach guitar as well.

Chris Jones is a lifelong musician and multi-instrumentalist. He began learning Suzuki Cello at 3 years old and picked up the violin in grade school. After discovering an old mandolin in a closet, Chris fell in love with the instrument and learned bluegrass and folk music. From there, he went on to learn guitar, banjo, and piano as part of his continuing music studies. Chris earned his Doctorate in Music from West Virginia University. He has taught music as a visiting assistant professor at West Virginia Wesleyan College, teaching applied instrumental lessons in guitar, mandolin, banjo, bass, and fiddle. He also founded the West Virginia Wesleyan Appalachian ensemble and taught music theory, ear training, music history, and general education courses in music appreciation. Chris is a talented educator who makes learning music fun and accessible for students of all ages and skill levels. With his breadth of knowledge and expertise on several instruments, he is sure to be a great fit for your young musician.

Homework Offered
Learners will progress faster with 15-30 minutes of daily practice for beginners, and 30-45 minutes of dialy practice for advancing musicians.
1 - 2 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Grades Offered