Swede Larson
About
I'm a professional guitarist, performer, and teacher with more than 35 years of experience exploring, performing, and teaching music. My career has included solo performances, chamber music, recording projects, and the publication of many works and educational materials.
My musical training includes study with Frank Koonce and masterclasses with distinguished guitarists including Oscar Ghiglia, Martha Masters, Michael Chapdelaine, and Bruce Holzman.
As a teacher, I believe that technique should serve musical expression. I want my students to develop not only reliable technique, but also the ability to listen critically, understand the music they play, and make independent artistic decisions. I tailor my approach to each student's experience, interests, and goals, whether they're building their foundations or working on demanding repertoire.
For me, learning music is about more than mastering the notes. It's about discovering the expressive possibilities of the instrument and developing a deeper understanding of music itself.
I'd love to help you develop your playing, expand your musical understanding, and discover what you're ca
Teaching Style
My musical training includes study with Frank Koonce at Arizona State Univeirsty, (BA in guitar performance), and masterclasses with Oscar Ghiglia, Martha Masters, Michael Chapdelaine, and Bruce Holzman.
As a performer, I've appeared at special events, including a performance for Robert Redford's 80th birthday, and in the VIP lounge for George Strait. My recording projects span a broad range of repertoire, and my publications include more than 500 musical works and 11 public-domain editions.
I remain active as a performer, recording artist, and publisher, continually exploring the expressive possibilities of the guitar and sharing my work with audiences and musicians.
Curriculum
I recommend a thoughtful, individualized approach to learning that balances regular practice with active listening and reflection. Students benefit from working in focused, manageable sections, identifying specific challenges, and developing strategies to address them rather than simply repeating passages from beginning to end.
I encourage students to listen carefully to their playing, pay attention to tone and phrasing, and develop an understanding of the music beyond the notes on the page. Consistent, purposeful practice is more valuable than simply accumulating hours.
Lessons provide guidance, feedback, and practical strategies that students can apply independently between sessions. My goal is to help each student become an increasingly independent musician who understands not only what to practice, but how and why.
Recommended materials will vary according to each student's experience, musical interests, and goals. I prefer to select method books, repertoire, and supplementary materials individually rather than require every student to follow a single text.
Students should bring their current music and any instructional materials they are already using. As lessons progress, I will recommend appropriate repertoire, technical studies, and other resources to support their musical development.
No particular book is required before beginning lessons.
Credentials & Affiliations
I earned my degree in Guitar Performance from Arizona State University in 2007, where I studied guitar under the distinguished guitarist and pedagogue Frank Koonce and composition with renowned composer James DeMars. In 2011, I completed a Master of Arts degree at American Public University, further developing my academic and analytical background. My musical education includes extensive advanced study in classical guitar performance, composition, interpretation, music theory, and counterpoint, including four years of university-level coursework devoted to tonal and Renaissance modal counterpoint. Throughout my career, I have participated in masterclasses with internationally renowned musicians and educators, including Oscar Ghiglia, Philip Glass, Lily Afshar, Martha Masters, William Kanengiser, David Leisner, Bruce Holzman, Nicolas Goluses, and Michael Chapdelaine. With more than 35 years of experience as a classical guitarist, performer, and educator, I bring together rigorous technical training, extensive performance experience, and a deep commitment to helping students develop both musical understanding and artistic expression.
