Kent Nightingale
About
Kent is a multi-instrumentalist who specializes in guitar, especially classical, and songwriting. He also plays drum set and bass guitar proficiently, and has studied jazz improvisation. He earned his B.A. in music from Portland State University in 2006. He has performed with many bands and recorded albums of his songs.
He began teaching guitar lessons in college and has taught music classes with Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation, Sound Roots School of Music, Bridge Charter Academy, and Desert Sky Montessori.
Teaching Style
I try to find out what aspects of studying music are most interesting to each student, and meet them where they are at. Often times this means learning a student's favorite songs. Musical concepts are taught alongside, ensuring the opportunity for each student to develop a solid foundation of knowledge knowledge and technique. Students who have a specific area they want to explore are encouraged to participate in shaping the direction of the lessons.
Curriculum
Because guitar is my primary instrument, I tend not to use method books as the main driver of the lessons, but try to teach students whatever interests them the most, often times with tablature. I do use method books however when they are helpful. I have used books published by Hal Leonard and Essential Elements, as well as Children's Guitar Method by William Bay. For Classical guitar, Solo Guitar Playing by Frederic Noad is good.
I use Bass Method Book 1 by Hal Leonard for new bass guitar students.
When I teach drums I use texts like Stick Control, Alfred's Beginning Drumset Method, and Realistic Rock.
Credentials & Affiliations
B.A. in Music - Portland State University 2006