Dan Duval
About
Dan Duval is a guitarist, composer, and music teacher in the Portland, OR area. He spent two years studying performance, composition and world music at Berklee College of Music, before moving to the west coast and receiving a Bachelor of Music from Portland State University. Dan has been teaching private lessons and group classes since 2002 to students of all ages, styles and skill levels. While his teaching style is focused on the fundamentals that all musicians need to succeed, like rhythm, chords, scales, and intervals, it is his mission to put the student’s goals and ambitions first and to support them in the path they have chosen. Whether they are returning professionals eager to refine their skills, or casual hobbyists just looking to expand and learn new songs, he believes in supporting students as they work at whatever pace or intensity level they have chosen.
Teaching Style
Lessons are tailored to the students individual needs, but always focus on the fundamental building blocks of music. Whether you are a young beginner or a returning professional, we will be talking about basic rhythm, pulse and subdivision, chords, arpeggios, scales, etudes, and the best part: building a repertoire of music you can play alone or in a group setting. We will also spend time on Music Appreciation with some help from YouTube, to learn how to listen critically and analytically to a diverse array of music. Early in our sessions together I will take some notes on your goals and dreams, so we can make sure that our activities are aligned with the path you want to be on.
Curriculum
Every lesson will be divided into three segments: technique; fundamentals; and then repertoire. Studying technique is all about training the muscle memory to navigate the instrument. Fundamentals include all of the basic building blocks of music, like chords and scales. Repertoire is our biggest project: together we will pick songs that will grow your repertoire in a way which enriches your enjoyment of music. Over the years I've employed a wide range of method books depending on the students age and experience level. For a young beginner, the Hal Leanord method books can be a great way to learn the fretboard. For returning professionals, I always recommend reading through Mick Goodrick's "The Advancing Guitarist," that book is overflowing with valuable food for thought. Lessons also include a wide array of custom materials of my own.
Credentials & Affiliations
Bachelor of Music in Jazz Guitar Performance, Portland State University, 2006