111 2nd Street, Houston TX, 77002
Instruments:Composition, Ear Training, Film Scoring, Guitar, Other, Theory
Styles:Classical, Jazz, Folk – Country – Bluegrass, Rock – Alternative, Electronic
Levels:Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Experience:35 years
Rate:$35 / hr
Personal Statement
Harold Combess
Guitar Instructor, Composer, Film Scoring
PROFILE
I love teaching, and strive to ensure that each student meets his/her personal goals.
My lesson environment is relaxed; I feel that if the student cannot
get a little fun out of it, something is missing. I do, however, expect
my students to practice and to pay attention.
I enjoy teaching beginners, particularly young (8-15 year olds)
children/teens. A beginner has no bad habits which need to be broken.
Adults and experienced players are also welcome. I have particular
expertise in jazz harmony, theory & improvisation. I teach the
Lydian Chromatic Concept, among other improvisational methodologies.
Focus is on proper technique for all students, regardless of his/her
playing ability. Once proper technique is established, I utilize the
Berklee Series as a basis for instruction. These volumes are
supplemented by exercises, which I write specifically for the
particular student’s needs. As the student progresses, I incorporate
tunes that the student wishes to learn into the lesson plan.
EXPERIENCE
1975-1978
Berklee College of Music, Boston MA
Majored in composition & arranging.
Studies with Russ DiFilipis and Bill Bresnahan. Ensembles with Gary Burton, Pat Metheny & Mick Goodrick, to name a few.
1979-1981
Houston Baptist University
Majored in composition
Wrote my first complete symphonic work.
Studied with Dr. Robert Linder.
1982-1984
University of Houston
Additional music history & advanced theory study with Dr. Robert Nelson
1976-Present
I have taught private guitar lessons both in my home and in student’s homes.
I began teaching right out of high school with the H & H Music Company. After
College I began taking private students.
ADDITIONAL INFO
If any additional info is required, I will be happy to provide same.
References are available upon request; thanks for your consideration.